DESCRIPTION:
Lower East Side of New York City. End of the millennium. Mark and Roger are roommates, and they can’t afford rent (again). But they don’t let that stop them from enjoying life while they can. They find solace in their community of fellow artists and activists who are also trying to make ends meet as they struggle through life, love, their art, the AIDS crisis, and paying (or not paying) rent. Jonathan Larson’s final musical still resonates today about the importance of trying to get your voice heard, even if it seems no one is listening.
DIRECTOR'S CASTING ASSUMPTIONS AND/OR REQUIREMENTS:
The production of RENT is rooted in the recognition that this musical was created to reflect a diverse, complicated, and vibrant community. Casting will intentionally embrace that diversity in every sense—race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, body type, physical ability, and lived experience. All bodies are welcome in this production, and no role is restricted to a single physical type or gender expression. Each character exists within a world that values honesty, resilience, and authenticity rather than narrow ideas of what performers “should” look or sound like.
The narrative of RENT engages directly with themes of illness, addiction, intimacy, and survival. For this reason, company members must approach the work with thoughtfulness, respect, and openness. Cast members are expected to create a rehearsal space grounded in generosity and care, supporting one another through challenging material while also celebrating joy, humor, and love. Intimacy choreography will be integrated into the process, with a focus on explicit attention to consent, open communication, and respect for personal boundaries.
Musically, RENT lives in the raw, unpolished energy of 1990s rock. Performances that embrace grit, vulnerability, and individuality are valued above polished perfection. Company members are encouraged to bring bold, creative approaches to audition material—whether through live instruments, backing tracks, or personal interpretations of rock songs from the period. What matters most is the authenticity of expression and a willingness to share unique artistry.
Casting will focus on assembling a company of performers who represent the richness of identity and embodiment present in contemporary communities. The aim is to create an ensemble that reflects the inclusive spirit of RENT, where all voices, bodies, and perspectives are celebrated as part of the storytelling.
IMPORTANT NOTE ON VIDEOGRAPHY:
Please note that video recording will take place during the audition AND rehearsal process. These recordings will not capture individual auditions or specific scenes from the production but will instead provide general footage of the events and environment surrounding the auditions and rehearsals. No audio will be used. The footage may be incorporated within the production itself.
INTIMACY & CONSENT:
This production contains themes and moments involving intimacy, physical touch, and mature subject matter. The intimacy standards and practices employed within the industry, as well as those adopted by the Theatre program, will serve as a guide for our rehearsal process, ensuring that all cast members feel safe, respected, and supported. Consent will be ongoing and respected at every step.
There will be brief staged nudity/near nude moments that will happen in the show, as well as lip-to-lip intimate contact between Joan & Maureen, Mimi & Roger, as well as Collins & Angel.
AUDITIONS: Monday, October 27, 2025| 6-10 PM | MUND 125 / MUND 170
RENT is not a traditional musical theatre piece—it lives in the raw, unpolished energy of 1990s rock. For auditions, students should prepare a ‘90s rock song (verse and chorus, no longer than 60 seconds) rather than a musical theatre selection. Backing tracks or live instruments are highly encouraged, and performers are welcome to accompany themselves if they play guitar, keyboard, or another instrument. Authenticity and individuality are more important than polish, so cast members should focus on bringing personal style, honesty, and the spirit of ‘90s rock into the room. Think less “Broadway polish” and more “East Village edge.”
Below are examples of 1990s rock and pop-rock songs paired with RENT characters. These selections reflect the tone, style, and energy associated with each role and are meant to guide students in choosing audition material.
Mark Cohen (Tenor)
“Iris” – Goo Goo Dolls
“Losing My Religion” – R.E.M.
Roger Davis (Tenor/Baritone)
“Under the Bridge” – Red Hot Chili Peppers
“Creep” – Radiohead
Mimi Márquez (Alto/Mezzo, strong belt)
“You Oughta Know” – Alanis Morissette
“I’m Just a Girl” – No Doubt
Tom Collins (Tenor/Baritone)
“One” – U2
“Everybody Hurts” – R.E.M.
Angel Dumott Schunard (Tenor with falsetto)
“Vogue” – Madonna (1990 release but iconic energy)
“Believe” – Cher
Maureen Johnson (Mezzo/Soprano with belt)
“Bitch” – Meredith Brooks
“Zombie” – The Cranberries
Joanne Jefferson (Alto/Mezzo, strong belt)
“Give Me One Reason” – Tracy Chapman
“You Gotta Be” – Des’ree
Benjamin “Benny” Coffin III (Baritone)
“Lightning Crashes” – Live
“Runaway Train” – Soul Asylum
Ensemble (Community Voices)
“Linger” – The Cranberries
“Torn” – Natalie Imbruglia
CALLBACKS: Wednesday, October 29, 2025 | 6-10 PM | MUND 125 / MUND 170
The stage manager, CJ Suozzi (csuozzi@luc.edu) will notify you if you are called back.
IMPORTANT DATES:
Rehearsals Begin: Mon, February 02, 2026
Tech: Thurs, March 19, 2026
Performances: March 26 - March 28 and April 9 - April 11 at 7:30 PM, March 29 and April 12 at 2:00 PM.
Note: Easter Break falls on what would have been the second weekend of performances. For that reason, we will be having a pickup rehearsal on April 8th to maintain the production upon returning from Easter Break.
This project conflicts with rehearsals for A MIDSUMMER NIGHT'S DREAM and FIRST DATE AT THE ART MUSEUM.