Review Roundup: RENT Continues to Rock the Gateway in Bellport Village

RENT, Jonathan Larson's famed rock opera that changed the course of a generation, is open at The Gateway in Bellport Village and runs through June 3. Tickets start at $59. For tickets, contact the Box Office at (631) 286-1133 or visit the website at www.TheGateway.org.

RENT is the Tony Award and Pulitzer Prize-winning rock opera that kicks off Long Island's oldest professional theater's 2017 Season. This revolutionary musical takes us on an unforgettable roller coaster ride through a year in the fascinating lives of aspiring artists in NYC's Alphabet City. Infused with explosive rhythms and tender pop ballads like "Without You," "Out Tonight," "La Vie Boheme," and the title song "Rent," this timeless celebration of friendship and hope, inspired by Puccini's La Bohème, reminds us to measure our lives with the only thing that truly matters-the "Seasons of Love."

Let's see what the critics have to say!

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DC Metro Theatre Arts (Kristen Weyer): Michelle Veintimilla plays the tortured Mimi stunningly. Her beautiful voice, and enticing mix of graceful and sensuous movement are perfect for her character, and come to combined fruition in "Out Tonight." Natalie Storrs as Maureen, and Moeisha McGill as Joanne portray this high-emotion, on again/off again couple extremely well. Joanne's frazzled patience, and Maureen's eccentricities come through wonderfully. Storrs' execution of Maureen's performance is inspired, and McGill and Greenbaum's duet of "Tango Maureen" is definitely a highlight.

Dans Papers: The vivacious, sexy Mimi is played by Michele Veintimilla, a perfect choice for leading lady. Sultry yet graceful with a commanding voice, Veintimilla hits this show out of the park. Mimi's duet with Roger, "Light My Candle," never fails to bring a smile to my face, and seeing it live is indescribably fun and exciting. Mimi's solo, "Take Me Out Tonight," is also one of my favorite numbers, and Veintimilla strutted her stuff across the stage, showing that she has the moves and vocals it takes to be one stellar, strong and captivating performer.

BroadwayWorld (Melissa Giordano): Running through June 3rd, The Gateway's ensemble cast, excellently directed by Matt Karris, includes Gateway vets Jeremy Greenbaum and Anthony Festa as longtime friends Mark Cohen and Roger Davis, respectively. Mark is a struggling, independent videographer and also serves as the story's narrator. Mr. Greenbaum is a fine choice to portray the adorkable Mark. A great voice makes him a natural for the role. Mr. Greenbaum and Mr. Festa make a great team particularly with their rendition of audience favorite "What You Own" in Act II. Mark is roommates with Roger, a once successful musician but is now struggling to cope with life with AIDS and is a recovering drug addict. Mr. Festa is also a smart choice for the role of Roger. Another audience favorite is his heartbreaking rendition of the hit "One Song, Glory" where he tells about wanting to leave a meaningful song after he dies.

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