Reviews of Rent
What Critics Are Saying
"The world would certainly be a better place if love were the measure of a life." –BroadwayWorld
"It’s a magnificent rock musical featuring a mix of talented locals along with out-of-state actors, directed and choreographed with precision, heart, and soul by PCS associate artistic director Chip Miller." –Judy Nedry
"Theater companies need a heap of talent for a successful performance of Larson’s Rent, and the cast of Portland Center Stage once again exceeds expectations." –PDXParent
"A revival of Rent sells itself—the iconic musical is a cultural phenomenon, and its many ardent fans will jump at the opportunity to see it where it belongs, live on stage." –The Portland Observer
"However, one of the most revolutionary aspects of this musical is how it has touched generations of queer individuals, especially children. Director Chip Miller brings this up in his note." –The Log, Lewis & Clark College
"Loosely based on Giacomo Puccini’s famous opera La Bohème, Rent is a rock musical that was revolutionary at the time of its Off-Broadway premiere in 1996. The production went on to win four Tony Awards, including Best Musical." -The Huntington News
"Mr. Larson has proved that rock-era song styles can be integrated into a character-driven story for the stage with wildly affecting success." -The New York Times
"Rent now feels like a time capsule in many ways. It’s a portrait of a frenzied time at the end of the millennium." -The Mercury News
What Audiences Are Saying
"Phenomenal energy. My aspiring artist child was thrilled with the entire experience."
"One of the best performances of any show I have seen in a while! I forgot how much I love Rent and this cast really brought it to life and reminded me of how relevant the show’s themes continue to be."
"Top-notch production. Outstanding voices."
"Haven’t seen Rent in 23 years. Loved this production and looking forward to seeing more shows here."
"The show gave me goosebumps multiple times. The cast was wonderful and I can’t wait to see tick, tick ... BOOM!"
"Brilliant piece of art performed with excellence."
"Phenomenal! Want to see it again tomorrow!"
"Enthusiastic and talented actors/singers brought this story to life and clearly communicated the theme of needing love and support in difficult times. Clearly, much work went into this production, including the building of the urban set and the dramatic visual background scenery. Thanks to all involved."
"An amazing performance!! I literally am blown away by the talent I saw on stage."
"First time seeing a musical live on the stage, and this did not disappoint! Amazing job to the whole cast and crew!"
"Superb performances by all of the cast. The energy level was astounding. Sets, choreography, costumes, everything was excellent."
"If you have the time, go see this show. The actors are absolutely phenomenal and have the kindest hearts. Literally such a beautiful show with beautiful people. 10/10 recommend."
"I laughed, I cried and I got chills during many parts of the performance. The energy was moving and left us wanting more."
Current & Upcoming
Art Exhibit: ¡Soy Yo! by Mika Martinez
¡Soy Yo!, is a multi-media project, created by Mika Martinez, that examines and celebrates Latinx identity featuring more than 50 portraits of the Hispanic/Latino community in Portland.
Piano Bar with Courtney Freed and David Saffert
Join us for this monthly event with local songstress Courtney Freed and Portland-based pianist David Saffert as they host a good old-fashioned PIANO BAR.
NASSIM
From Iranian playwright Nassim Soleimanpour (creator of the Off-Broadway smash hit White Rabbit, Red Rabbit) comes an audacious new theatrical experiment, presented in collaboration with Boom Arts. Each night, a new, unrehearsed local performer joins the playwright on stage, while the script waits, unseen, in a sealed box... Touchingly autobiographical yet powerfully universal, NASSIM is a striking theatrical demonstration of how language can both divide and unite us.
Art Exhibit: Garam Garam Chai by Yusra Siddiqui
Portland Center Stage will host Garam Garam Chai, an art exhibit by Portland-based multidisciplinary artist Yusra Siddiqui, featuring a series of hand-sewn teabag printmaking pieces that serve as a contemplation of the communal tea times shared between Desi and British culture.
Coriolanus
Shakespeare’s tragedy about the war hero Coriolanus and the fight between the elite and the deprived masses will be fueled by a dynamic female and non-binary ensemble with a muscular, movement-focused staging.
May First Thursday with Adriana Wagner Quartet
May First Thursday will feature live music by the Adriana Wagner Quartet in the Main Lobby, joined by Garrett Baxter on bass, Matthew Sazima on piano and Ken Mastrogiovanni on drums.
Portland Center Stage is committed to identifying & interrupting instances of racism & all forms of oppression, through the principles of inclusion, diversity, equity, & accessibility (IDEA).
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