Rent – Paradise in St Augustines #Offies 2023 #NewNoms: #OffFest Edinburgh Fringe
Category:
OffFest
Year of Nomination:
2023
Nominee:
Nominee
Production:
Rent
Venue:
Paradise in St Augustines
Company:
Bare Productions
Phenomenal show! Saw it the first day and had to go back again! And again! Brilliantly cast and am now absolutely addicted to the music of rent!
A five star show from me.⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️This was a powerful, heartbreaking, heartwarming & truly memorable show The depth of talent in this cast was incredible!
Brilliant production. A company bursting with talent – would be deserved winners!
Amazing & emotional show with a fab cast!
What a show. This was so close to professional shows you see on the west end and professional tours! Everything about this show was outstanding! From direction to staging to music everything was incredible!
Everything about this show was amazing and so powerful. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ star. 2 scenes in particular had me in tears. Amazing cast
An incredible production. Every single person on that stage had bags of energy, commitment and talent. I’d love the chance to see it again. Well done to all at Bare Productions!!
I saw this show on their opening night. It was phenomenal! I can’t praise the cast enough for their outstanding vocals, heart felt acting and overall electric performance. Well done to everyone involved ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I hadn’t seen rent or knew anything about the storyline, I was blown away by this production. It was fun funny emotional and beautifully performed by every single member of the cast. Well done guys and congrats on a phenomenal show.
What an Amazing show!!!! Cast were absolutely superb. Such an emotional rollercoaster. Loved it. Definitely a fringe favourite:)))
Wow! This show was phenomenal. The 2nd half was so emotional I was not expecting it at all as I had never seen this show before. The cast had me mesmerised. I wasnt sure where or who to look at in case I missed anything. Love it!
Always trepidation when going to see a show with amateurs, and such a difficult musical to conquer. But this group gave an outstanding performance. Their voices were incredible and the acting flowed throughout. Totally blown away,with tears too. Truly a West End performance
Rent was amazing! The quality of the performances and vocals was exceptional and, to me, to the levels seen in London’s West End. I only saw one show as the rest were sold out but would’ve gone back again and again. It’s a shame it could get a longer run but hopefully the cast will reappear next year (if not before). Quality work!
This is the first time I have seen this show and it truely blew my mind.
The staging was brilliant for such a small space but the cast drew every single audience member into the play. Such strong performances from the whole cast.
Phenomenal show performed by a phenomenal cast!
This show was incredible! It had everything to offer. It was fun funny and emotional. Each member of the cast knew exactly how to deliver a captivating performance well done to all involved.
Outstanding production the incredible performances left me in tears, such an emotionally articulate cast
Incredibly powerful with such wonderfully talented young people. Great maturity and sensitivity shown around such an emotional topic. Overall an exceptional production that will remain long in the memory .
The best production of Rent, EVER! Not only was the singing perfect but the casting and acting was superb. Everyone sounded like a real New Yorker. The direction was wonderful, pulling the audience into 90s grunge and the art of making the audience chuckle away and then balling their eyes out over the loss Angel 🤍 and the devastating AIDS pandemic . I still can’t believe this cast aren’t professional performers, they have outshone many of the pro shows in this years Fringe. A company not to be missed. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ bravo!!!
The best show I have ever seen to this day! The talent was insane from the very beginning all the way to the end. I cannot recommend it enough. Such a powerful and magical performance🫶🏼
I was absolutely blown away by the talent in this production. It was so powerful I was in tears a few times.
‘Rent’ was absolutely outstanding! The exceptionally strong cast were outstanding. Well defined characters, convincing storytelling, believable relationships, excellent vocal talents – an energetic, emotionally charged, beautiful performance from everyone, particularly the main leads. Absolutely phenomenal!
The entire cast did such a brilliant job of conveying the passion and tragedy and joy of this musical. One number that truly stood out was “I’ll Cover You (Reprise)” – I have never cried so much at this song before! Everyone’s vocals were perfection, but what really made this production so wonderful to watch was the clear dedication and passion of every single cast member to making this production so vibrant and exciting. What a supremely talented bunch!
Incredible and heartfelt performance! Rarely have I seen an entire cast perform with such depth, dedication and heart. This is one of the best theatre experiences I have ever had. I was so swept away that I cried in awe, and in sympathy with the characters. The depth of emotional connection was amazing! Five star experience!
Saw this show twice and it was even better the second time. Unbelievable that this was an amateur cast, not one performer less than amazing. They had the audience in the palm of their hands, from laughing to weeping to smiling through tears, this show and cast had it all.
A definite 5-star show. Such a powerful story, brilliantly portrayed by a brilliant and talented cast.
The stage management and choreography was excellent, and the singing by the whole troop was truly outstanding.
An amazing show.
This was an absolutely INCREDIBLE production with an insanely talented ensemble cast! The performances were heartfelt, comedic and, at times, gut wrenchingly emotional. The cast effortlessly drew you fully into the story with each scene and song and it was an absolute joy to watch.
Absolutely incredible! Inspiring and emotional and full of phenomenal talent all round!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
What a wonderful show talent and personality of the cast simply bowled me over. Fantastic sho
A stellar performance from all. Impressive vocals, in-depth characterisation and an absolutely heart-wrenching yet, also heart warming production. The actors walked into that performance space and left their hearts on that stage every night! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
What a phenomenal show! Having watched some amazing performances at the Fringe & International Festival – Rent by Bare Productions was a stand out even next to the likes of Berliner Ensemble. The cast displayed exceptional talent & provided an incredible performance from staging to individual talent. Couldn’t recommend the show or company more!
Loved this production of Rent. The cast were all phenomenal. Their voices were so powerful. The emotions were real and I felt as though I understood the relationships in the musical better after watching this production. The struggles were very current and I would love to see it win. It would be well deserved.
Outstanding performance.
Vocal harmonies were exceptional.
Powerful and emotional performances – fantastic!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The best production of this musical I have ever seen! So professional and well directed. Maureen’s ‘Over the Moon’ was spectacular and the whole audience were moved to tears by the end! Was amazing!!
An amazing production of Rent. Cast were extremely talented and deserved all the 5 star reviews . They portrayed believable characters and took the audience on an emotional journey as each Character’s story unfolded. Singing was outstanding made even better by the talented live band.
Spectacular show. The cast are stars in the making, putting on a professional show that was West End calibre. Each of the cast showed passion and put on one of the greatest performances I ever witnessed. Truly amazing and powerful. They had us tearing up one minute and laughing hysterically the next. A once in a lifetime show. I am glad I had the privilege to experience it. Art of the highest regard.
I went to see this on the final night..and a very emotional night it was..the stand out for me was ‘Maureen’..wow, this actor has a great future ahead of her..(Nicola Alexander)..The live band added to the great energy of the show..I look forward to their next production
Brilliantly talented cast delivered a raw and emotional performance of Rent and I loved it. Congratulations to all the cast members. You absolutely deserve all of the fantastic reviews you are getting. I can’t wait to see what the future holds for you all!
I have never resonated with or particularly enjoyed RENT until seeing this production, so much so I went twice. The cast were absolutely phenomenal, the nuances and intricacies they displayed was like nothing I’d seen before. The maturity and empathy with which they approached this material is very commendable and really highlighted all the important messages within the musical. The vocal talent was exceptional, everyone had an incredible voice and they all blended together beautifully. The staging was done brilliantly, there was never a moment when the audience weren’t engaged and even knowing what came next, I was still constantly on the edge of my seat. The band were amazing too, enhancing every moment and bringing the audience to tears. The entire cast and crew are well deserving of this nomination and the standing ovations that they received each time I went. Definitely a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ production and I can’t stop listening to the music of RENT (but being slightly disappointed that it will never be as good as what I heard from this production).
A raw and authentic representation of this play. The actors really brought the show to life with great emotion and talent
This show literally broke me! I cried so much… don’t think I’ve ever cried that much with a show. The performances are out of this world and the whole production is spotless. So grateful I got to see it!
The best amateur production I’ve seen hands down. Each member of the cast brought energy, passion and absolutely insane vocals to the show and the audience was hooked from beginning to end.
Incredible show with such a powerful message. The cast executed it perfectly!
What a rousing performance, the whole cast and music team gave it their absolute all. The two hours flew by unnoticed as I was drawn in by their heartfelt numbers and chemistry. A particular standout was the actress playing Maureen, whose late-in-the-plot entrance shook the house with rapid energy and comedic glory.
What a phenomenal show, the cast could not have been better fitted for this exceptional experience. The chemistry between Tom & Angel on stage is the first time in years I’ve been brought to tears in an audience, and Maureen’s performance was strikingly powerful. Could not recommend this show enough!
What a superb production. Rent is one of my favourite shows, having been in it a couple of times myself, and having seen it many more times, and BARE absolutely did it justice, and more! I was so interested in, and impressed by, Director Dominic Lewis’ decision to move the story ahead 2 years (from Hogmanay 1989 into 1990; to Hogmanay 1991 into 1992). This was visible especially as the character of Angel’s symptoms of HIV/AIDS developed. This was portrayed so carefully and handled so delicately – kudos to all involved in highlighting the changes that had occurred by this point in the pandemic. I also loved the choice to set Seasons of Love in the Life Support group, with the character of Mark opening Act II with a poignant speech, leading into the song. We all know this song and it is always beautiful, but this introduction and setting gave it so much more meaning.
The performers were all fantastic. Ethan Baird as Mark was a real stand out – he completely embodied the somewhat awkward character, with excellent physicality and comedy timing, while effectively narrating the whole show as he watches his friends go through their various struggles around him. Nick Tomlinson’s Roger really took the audience in and we felt his pain, fighting against other characters; his illness; and himself. Freya Rivero played Mimi perfectly opposite him, starting off as the fun and playful character that she is, but taking us on the heartbreaking journey as she becomes more vulnerable. Maureen was played really well by Nicola Alexander – the song Over The Moon is often hard to follow but she breathed new life into it and really made the audience laugh; and Felicity Halfpenny balanced out Maureen’s chaos as a steady but loving Joanne – their Take Me Or Leave Me was a highlight. Andrew Gardiner was a lovely Collins, who led us through the emotional rollercoaster that is his relationship with Angel. Rory McKeon was, I think, the best Angel I have ever seen. Their physical presence and ability to look so beautiful and dance so well in drag certainly helped us all to fall for the fun-loving character; but their portrayal of Angel’s deterioration and demise was truly heartbreaking. Lewis’ choice to set this as Roger & Mimi sing Without You was really touching, and McKeon managed to portray the physical symptoms so well – this never felt over-done or dramatic, but accurate, and so painful. Greg McAfferty had the difficult job of playing Benny – the only fairly unsympathetic character – but he did so very well and with a twinkle in his eye that made him hard to dislike! The 7-strong ensemble were exceptional, switching between a multitude of roles seamlessly, delivering humour and emotion, all in – both literal and metaphorical – perfect harmony. The vocals of all the principals ought to be mentioned too – they all had absolute powerhouse voices, and altogether as a cast, the sound was stunning. Full ensemble numbers were where this production really shone. Finlay Turnbull, MD, led the cast through this beautiful, dynamic score along with a brilliant live rock band. Costume was expertly executed; and I loved the choreography that came into La Vie Boheme, and the way the different entrances and exists were used around the venue. All in all, it’s hard to find fault with this production. Bravo to all involved! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Absolutely loved this show, the cast were so talented and it was such a moving performance. One of my absolute highlights of the entire fringe to watch.
Absolutely brilliant
I first saw Rent many years ago and found it really depressing.
The theme will always be depressing but this brilliant cast made it so moving that the mix of emotions was unbelievable
Full marks guys you really deserved your *****
Brilliant show. Every single member of the cast put their heart and soul into it. Incredible and well worthy of all the 5 star reviews
A wonderful production brilliantly performed by a very talented cast and live band.
This show tugged at heart strings I didn’t even know I had! Insanely talented cast that so obviously poured their heart and soul into this production, which was directed impeccably. Is 6 stars even a thing? Because it is now! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is an amazing production. The cast give incredible performances and the direction feels really fresh and interesting. This is a really moving, beautiful show.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ – A truly 5 star production! Indistinguishable from a professional West End production. The cast were on another level and the depth throughout the cast was incredible with every person on that stage delivering outstanding performances. The cast and production team deserve every accolade coming their way and I can’t wait to see the next production this remarkably talented group perform!
From the very first note I was blown away. The production was deeply moving – I shifted between chills and tears the entire time. The energy and connection within the cast was effortless and captivating. And the band was incredible! A remarkable amount of talent on that stage. Truly West End worthy!
This production was amazing. it had me in tears even before the end of act 1.
All of the actors portrayed the character’s beautifully and the vocals to match.
A tough show to do and I was blow away.
Rent was an amazing, powerful show .
A brilliant cast and orchestra
The best show I’ve seen for a long time. The cast and production were outstanding. A very emotional experience.
This show was incredible!
The cast were all outstanding and gave an incredibly passionate and moving performance.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Genuinely amazing show! What a relented bunch!
This was a phenomenal show! Emotional in places with an amazingly talented cast behind the story being told. Five-star worthy!
Incredibly talented cast with an amazing on stage chemistry. Every actor brought an outstanding energy into their role. I loved every minute of it.
This production of Rent is one of the best shows I have ever seen! The attention to detail and passion that was put into the show by the production team and the cast made it a show I’ll never forgot! From laughter to tears everyone cast member had me gripped from the start to right to the end! Congratulations to you all on such a beautiful show🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Hands down the best version of rent I have seen live. Easy.
This was my favourite show of the fringe. The whole cast were really talented and did such an amazing job with such an emotional story. I laughed, I cried and I cursed myself for not buying tickets to see it again before it sold out
This show absolutely exceeded my every expectation. The entire cast was incredible. From their immaculate vocals to their spot on acting I was completely entranced. This show made me laugh, it made me cry and I was absolutely in awe of all of the clear hard work that had gone into this production. The attention to detail within the set, the chemistry between the cast members , the entire show overall – just spectacular. Well done to everyone involved 🤍
What an incredible show! Really emotional, the actors’ performances were all fantastic but Rory as Angel brought me to tears. Wish I could see it again!
RENT was the absolute highlight of this years Fringe. I ended up seeing it 4 times during its run and every night came away with something new to talk about. The casting was phenomenal with the best vocals I have heard in a long time. Every single cast member was on point! The whole production was so captivating and had me (and the rest of the audience) sobbing throughout! Cannot praise this company enough! Stunning! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
RENT is one of my all time favourite shows, one which I must say can be extremely hard to do successfully as an amateur production – however, this cast blew me away. Every single one of the actors played an amazing role in terms of conveying the heaviness and depth of being queer or living with AIDS in that time period, and truly captured the essence of each character. The ensemble was fantastic, the chemistry between each couple was unmatched, and Rory McKeon’s portrayal of Angel was insanely captivating and beautiful and I have to say, the best death scene I’ve seen in any production of RENT. I’m still utterly amazed by everyone in it, and applaud the work of the director and creative team on such a gorgeous production. So sad I only got to see it once! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Magical, moving and memorable. Had the good fortune to see this twice and both performances were stellar with quality in every aspect. Fabulous !
Rent has long been one of my favourite shows and I absolutely loved this production. The whole cast were incredible. It takes quite a lot to bring a tear to my eye but this show managed it both nights I was there.
Blown away by the sheer professionalism of these performers. So hard to believe this is not their day jobs. Could have been watching this in London, it was so good and authentic. Loved the direction – have seen Rent once before and was very glad to see this one. Felt every emotion from each character and was quite tearful at times. You could hear a pin drop, folk were so engsged. Absolutely 5 stars from me.
Such an incredible production! The whole cast performed at the highest possible standard and you could tell they truly gave it their all – each and every person was outstanding. It is very rare to see a show move the whole audience the way this did. I cannot praise this production enough, definitely the highlight of the Fringe for me!
Incredible show, so professional I was blown away! I can’t recommend the show and all involved enough!
I’ve seen various Rent shows in person and online but honestly this is the most emotive and real performance I’ve ever seen!
Roger was bloody brilliant and I honestly felt every one of his worries and fears. What a voice. Also I don’t know if his tattoos are real or not on his hands but he looked so cool and should have them always 😆 What a brilliant casting.
Joanne – what a voice!! I mean what. A. Voice. Bravo Joanne, you played this part impeccably and I loved the whole thing!
Mark. I think he’s the best Mark I’ve ever seen. Even compared to the broadway Marks. (Can I say this? I think I can. Mark – you were flipping awesome!)
He was sooooo good!! Perfectly cast!! His tango with Joanne was so funny too 😆
Angel – I’ve never seen so many folk crying at a stage performance as when she died! She made us love her so much and then what a horrifically real death 🥹🥹 Poor Collins. Their whole on stage relationship was brilliant. I fell in love as they fell in love. Collins did a great job too 💗
Mimi. First off what a total babe! This is the first time I’ve seen a Rent performance and properly believed in the chemistry between her and Roger. So much so, I want them to be real life lovers because their on stage romance was freaking fire. Singing in harmony to each other, nose to nose and keeping the hottest eye contact. SWOON!
Maureen – hilarious. She’s a power house eh? Totally loved the solo 😆😆 moooo!
What about that woman who sang the high notes for Seasons of Love. Hold my jaw like 😍😍😍
Favourite song – Will I?
Like. Wow. That was absolutely incredible. Do you guys even know how talented you all are? I would bloody love to hear this recorded. I want to ask Alexa to play this to me on repeat daily!
I already have Rent withdrawals. You absolutely must vote for this show because wow 😍