MOORPARK, CA. – “Rent,” the award-winning Broadway rock opera, will lead off the Moorpark College 2010-11 Theatre season. Opening night is Friday, October 15, 2010, with weekend performances running through October 30.

This beloved rock opera, with score and lyrics by Jonathan Larson, is based on Giacomo Puccini’s opera, La Boheme. It tells the story of a group of impoverished young artists and musicians struggling to survive and create in New York’s Lower East Side in the thriving days of Bohemian Alphabet City, under the shadow of AIDS. The unforgettable and timeless story of these starving artists, who learn to love and find their voices in the shadow of poverty and illness, rings out a universal message of hope for everyone.

On Broadway the musical won every major award, including the Tony and the Pulitzer Prize. Over the course of its unprecedented 12-year Broadway run, “Rent” transformed the definition of musical theater – and changed Broadway forever. The exuberant rock score is one of the most beloved in Broadway history, showcasing numbers such as "Light My Candle," "You'll See," "La Vie Boheme," "Goodbye Love," and the show's signature "Seasons of Love."

"We have assembled an amazing cast of actors for the production," said Director Rolland Petrello. Jonathan Bluth plays the role of Mark Cohen. Jeremiah Shoop plays Mark Cohen best friend, Roger Davis. Joelle Georgeff plays Mimi Marquez, Roger's love interest.

Danielle Judovits plays the spunky performance artist Maureen Johnson, opposite Kailey Short in the role of Harvard-educated lawyer Joanne Jefferson. Completing the bohemian family are Sam Hyde as philosophy professor Tom Collins, and Pablo Gonzalez in the role of Angel Schunard, the Drag Queen with a heart of gold. Benjamin "Benny" Coffin III is played by Francis Cabison.

The ensemble cast includes: Ashley Bracken, Brenden MacDonald, Devon Yuwiler, Jessica Hren, Kristle Protacio, Larissa Olsen, Amanda Gonzales, Evan Anzalone, JT Mendoza, Kevin Kahm, Kevin Sulla, Kathleen McGovern, and David Mungcal.

The production team includes: Director Rolland Petrello, Musical Director Marilyn Anderson, Choreographer Heather Castillo and Conductor Dave Watkins.

“Rent” runs October 15, 16, 21, 22, 23, 28, 29, 30 at 8 p.m.; and October 20 and 27 at 1 p.m.

Foundation Sponsored VIP Saturday Night

On Saturday, October 16, the Moorpark College Foundation will sponsor a VIP Night to benefit the college and students scholarships. A $50 VIP package includes premium seating at the show, pre-theater and intermission refreshments in the Winegarten, a pre-theater lecture and discussion with the production team, and a $25 tax deduction for your generous donation to the Foundation. (Alcohol served. Must be 21 or older to participate).

General Admissions tickets range from $10 to $15, with senior and group discounts available. Order online to save 20%. For tickets or more information go to http://www.MoorparkCollege.edu/PAC or call the box office at (805) 378-1485.

“Rent” is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International.