Musical 'Rent' Celebrates 25th Anniversary and 10th Season with Sold-Out Shows, Delivering 525,600 Minutes of Emotion

The iconic musical 'Rent' is currently captivating audiences across South Korea, marking its 25th anniversary and tenth season with a highly successful run. The production offers a poignant journey of healing through true love and comfort, resonating deeply with theatergoers.

Since its Broadway debut in 1996, 'Rent' has enchanted the world for 29 years. Its return to the domestic stage after a two-year hiatus has once again proven its enduring popularity, with performances selling out from the opening night.

This season introduces a fresh wave of talent, featuring a blend of returning actors and exciting new cast members. Lee Hae-jun, Yoo Hyun-seok, and Yoo Tae-yang take on the role of 'Roger'. Jin Tae-hwa and Yang Hee-jun portray 'Mark', while Kim Soo-ha and Solji step into the shoes of 'Mimi'. Jo Kwon and Hwang Sun-jong are cast as 'Angel', and Jang Ji-hoo, who previously played 'Roger' for two seasons, now stars as 'Collins' alongside Hwang Geon-ha. Kim Ryeo-won and Kim Soo-yeon are 'Maureen', with Jung Da-hee and Lee Areum-sol as 'Joanne'. Gu Jun-mo reprises his role as 'Benny' for the second consecutive season, performing as the sole actor for the character.

The musical's most famous song, 'Seasons of Love', explores the immeasurable value of love that transcends time, even when measured in '525,600 minutes'. This anthem, often heard during the holiday season, serves as a reminder of the enduring power of human connection.

'Rent' boldly confronts societal issues of the 1990s, including homosexuality, AIDS, and drug addiction, themes that were often marginalized. Despite societal progress, the musical highlights the ongoing struggles faced by those who are perceived as 'different', emphasizing empathy and healing through love and friendship.

The narrative centers on a group of young artists in New York City's Harlem, navigating life's challenges and embracing their identities. It calls for acceptance and love, urging audiences to cherish the present moment and express their feelings to loved ones, as the future is unpredictable.

'Rent' continues its run until February 22nd of next year at the COEX Artium in Gangnam-gu, Seoul.

Korean netizens are flooding social media with praise for the 25th-anniversary production of 'Rent'. Comments include, 'A timeless masterpiece I can watch endlessly,' 'I cried so much from the actors' passionate performances,' and 'Still incredibly moving even with the new cast.' The show's message of comfort and healing is clearly resonating.