The Wayne Theatre is proud to present Jonathan Larson’s Tony Award-winning musical RENT, opening April 25 on the historic Wayne Theatre stage in Downtown Waynesboro, VA. Under the direction of Wayne Theatre Artistic Director Lesley Larsen, this production aims to authentically capture the emotional depth and raw energy that makes the show such a cultural touchstone.

Waynesboro marketing firm, Standout Arts, had a chance to speak with Larsen about what makes this production so meaningful.

“At its core, RENT is about chosen family, resilience, and creating joy and art in the middle of hardship,” said Larsen. “I placed it at the end of our Live, Laugh, Loathe production season because it weaves together all three themes in a single, powerful narrative. The show is human and unfiltered. It doesn’t shy away from pain, but it also celebrates life with urgency and passion.”

Larsen reflected on the relevance of the show’s message in today’s world.

“This is a musical about how we hold on to each other when everything feels unstable. I’m staging it with the intention of drawing the audience into that community...to help them feel that they’re part of it, not just observing it. RENT invites us to ask: What truly connects us? When everything around us is shifting, what keeps us together? And the answer, time and again in the show, is love. Not romantic love only, but connection, belonging, and shared humanity.”

One of the show’s most striking moments comes in the final number of Act I.

“There’s a line that says, ‘To being an us for once, instead of a them.’ That line encapsulates a major theme of RENT. It's the idea that those often marginalized in society - artists, the LGBTQ+ community, people living with illness, and anyone struggling to get by - are not just characters in the background. They’re the heartbeat of this story. And RENT honors them not with pity, but with full celebration.”

Larsen also spoke about the bond forming among the cast.

“Most of these actors didn’t know each other when we started. In just a few weeks, they’ve created a space rooted in vulnerability and trust. One of our cast members recently said he feels grounded by this community, and I think that’s because they’ve built something authentic...a shared sense of purpose and support. Watching them navigate this story together has been incredibly moving.”

As the cast prepares for opening night, Larsen shared what she hopes audiences will take away from the experience.

“Whether you know every word or are seeing RENT for the first time, I hope that this production reminds you of the people who make your life feel whole...and encourages you to embrace those moments fully, with love.”

THE IMPACT OF THIS PRODUCTION

RENT continues to resonate with audiences as one of the most defining musicals of its generation. With its unflinching look at love, loss, and survival, the RENT musical reflects the power of community and the enduring strength of the human spirit.

For performance times, tickets and details, click or tap here.

Content Advisory:

RENT contains mature themes and language, including depictions of drug use, sexuality, and HIV/AIDS. The production also includes moments of intimacy and emotional intensity. Parents and guardians should be aware that it features strong language and themes suited for mature audiences and older teens.

To learn more about this production and other upcoming events at the Wayne Theatre, click or tap here.

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PHOTO CREDIT: Joshua Donohue