Local Production of "Rent" Benefits Youth

For the past couple of seasons, the Jewish Community Center has been delivering what it calls "theatre of a conscience." Each production links up with local groups or charities that fit the show's themes. By Steve Walker

http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/national/local-national-885899.mp3

Kansas City, MO – With its current production of "Rent," the theatre benefits young people who may be living in dire circumstances, like "Rent"'s characters - and it's bringing in one of the show's original cast members to up the ante.

Actor Anthony Rapp recently left a national touring company of "Rent," Jonathan Larson's musical take on Puccini's "La boheme" with Paris swapped out for a squat on New York's lower east side. Rapp was in the original company of "Rent" when it opened 14 years ago. He says he sensed during this go-round that "Rent"'s gritty and financially strapped characters may have even more relevance in today's economic climate.

MASTER ACTING CLASSES with Anthony Rapp: ?Friday, Feb. 19, 4:30-6:00 pm, Keys to Auditioning and Monologues ?Saturday, Feb. 20, 3:00-4:30 pm, Tips and Techniques for Musical Theater ?Enrollment: Participant must be at least 16 years of age. Reservations required; 913-327-8054. Cost: $50/person for each class.

A CONVERSATION WITH ANTHONY RAPP ?An "Actor's Studio" interview focusing on the experience of starring in RENT and the issues portrayed in the play. ?Enrollment: Reservations required; 913-327-8054 Cost: $10/person.