Why ‘Rent’ is still relevant to today’s audiences

Rent follows the events that occurred over a year in the lives of roommates Roger Davis, Tom Collins, and Mark Cohen, a docu-filmmaker narrating and capturing their friendship. Cohen’s journey explores the age-old dilemma of practicality versus passion. Playing the character is seasoned theatre actor Reb Atadero, alternated by singer and television actor Ian Pangilinan.

A dancer fighting illness and addiction and Roger’s significant other, Mimi Marquez’s arc touches on the complexities of romantic relationships, the struggle for self-acceptance, and the importance of embracing life despite its uncertainties. GMA Sparkle star Thea Astley and seasoned theatre actor Molly Langley will play her role.

Angel Dumott Schunard, a drag queen and street drummer, can only be described as caring and kindhearted. Her character celebrates the joy of living your own path, the significance of your chosen family, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity—whether that be death or prejudice. She is played by visual artist Lance Reblando and TV, film, and theatre actor Adrian Lindayag.

Known for her provocative and politically charged performances, Maureen Johnson explores the thin line between art, politics, and gender. She is portrayed by commercial model and event host Justine Peña, alternated by Sydney-born TV actor Jasmine Fitzgerald.

Also see: This Ballet Philippines production shows 500 years of Philippine history through a feminist lens

Ivy League graduate and public interest lawyer Joanne Jefferson finds herself in the middle of the group as Maureen’s girlfriend. As she navigates the rocky nature of her relationship, she confronts issues like fidelity, trust, and compromise while advocating for justice and equality. Her character is played by theatre actors Mica Fajardo and Fay Castro.

A former friend of Mark, Roger, and Maureen, Benjamin Coffin III—aka Benny—is considered a sellout by his peers after becoming their landlord. He embodies walking the line between tradition and progress and the complexities of ambition and loyalty. Acting out his role is TV actor and radio DJ Markki Stroem, alternated by Star Magic actor Guji Lorenzana.

A once successful but now struggling musician, Roger Davis, dreams of writing a meaningful hit song in his lifetime. His story is of love, loss, and the fear of time running out as he finds his purpose in life. He is played by GMA Sparkle artist Anthony Rosaldo.

A computer genius, philosophy professor, and activist, Tom Collins can be described as an anarchist by some as he tackles issues like inequality and discrimination through unconventional means. As he deals with violence and prejudice, he finds love with Angel. Bringing the character to life is singer Garrett Bolden.

Members of Life Support, a group of people with HIV led by Paul, these five people swear by the motto ‘No day but today’ under the banner ‘Live life without fear’. Jordan Andrews plays Gordon; Chesko Rodriguez and Paul Valdez play Steve; Vyen Villanueva plays Paul; Abi Sulit plays Pam; Misha Fabian plays Ally; and Kai Banson plays Sue.

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