The School of Theatre and Dance will bring a story of “love, joy, authority and connection” to campus with “Rent” this month.

The story of “Rent” is set in the 1990s and follows a group of friends struggling to make ends meet as artists in New York. During this year-long look into their lives, we see them experience love, loss, and the effects of the AIDS epidemic that was prevalent at the time.  

“This show embodies the spirit and complexity of a group of people in their early to mid-twenties — the show questions and explores love, joy, authority and connection,” said director Amy Fritsche. “I hope that people see the universal story that we are all trying to find our place in this world… and that love and connection is the way through difficult times and situations.” 

“Rent” is a musical loved by many. It has won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama as well as a Tony award for Best Musical. It also ran on Broadway for 12 years, making it one of the longest running shows. 

The musical will begin showing at the E. Turner Stump Theatre at the Center for the Performing Arts on Feb. 16 and continue on select dates through Feb. 25. Tickets are sold on the School of Theatre & Dance’s website. 

Olivia Woods is a reporter. Contact her at [email protected].