RENT at Tom Stoppard Theatre Review
RENT full company. Photo: Pamela Raith.
It’s been much longer than 525,600 minutes since Jonathan Larson’s RENT was last seen in London’s West End. Hence, the new revival starring Gaten Matarazzo was met with excited anticipation… and it does not disappoint.
Directed by Luke Sheppard, this new production breathes fresh life into the show whilst also paying much homage to the original. The show is slick, well paced, and every choice throughout is layered and well considered. ‘Contact’ is a particular directorial standout; simply breathtaking to watch and truly atmospheric. As well as the direction, the choreography by Tom Jackson Greaves is also a joy – it’s sharp, punchy, and combines many different elements of dance – the use of vogue elements throughout is particularly thrilling.
RENT is now celebrating its 30th anniversary yet is still timeless. Larson’s book, score, and lyrics are genius, and many songs such as ‘Seasons of Love’ and ‘Take Me Or Leave Me’ (Lazy Violet and Danielle Fiamanya deliver a powerful rendition of this) have become theatre kid anthems. It is not just these songs, but the entire score, that is performed perfectly by the cast and band. The vocal talents within this production are simply insane – so hats off to Musical Director Katy Richardson who has done a spectacular job working with this company of vocal powerhouses.
There are countless highlights throughout the show, and the cast truly are oozing with talent. Billy Nevers (Collins) and Jeevan Braich (Angel) are a fantastic duo with strong chemistry. Nevers’ rendition of ‘I’ll Cover You (Reprise)’ is perhaps the apex of the night – a truly breathtaking performance.
Gaten Matarazzo leads the company with ease as Mark, delivering a strong and charming performance – it’s great to see him make his long-awaited West End debut. Travis Ross (Roger) and Alexa Lopez (Mimi) are exceptional, and their vocal performances are flawless. Ross’ acting within ‘Will I’ is a particularly poignant moment of the evening.
Leah Vassell’s rendition of ‘Seasons of Love’ is sublime; her vocal choices are spectacular, and she does justice to what has become such an iconic song. Vassell, along with the rest of the ensemble, are incredible throughout the night – they really hold the show up, and it’s lovely that they all get individual moments to shine.
The lighting design (Howard Hudson) throughout the show is striking, and the sound design (Paul Gatehouse) is great. David Woodhead’s set design is utilised nicely and complements the production well – video design from George Reeve and Nathan Amzi is also strong and ties in nicely to Sheppard’s direction. Gabriella Slade’s costume design and Jackie Saundercock’s hair and make up design is beautiful and really encompass the vibe of the show. All of the show’s technical and design elements are superb, and nicely detailed.
I truly don’t have a bad word to say about this production of RENT. It’s a flawless revival; one of the best shows I have seen all year. There really is no day but today to book tickets to see this show – it is a night at the theatre you will not regret or forget.
RENT plays at the Tom Stoppard Theatre, booking until 29th May 2027.
★★★★★
Written by Penny for Theatre and Tonic, October 2026.