Scott Freeman

Goodbye Love

When we both moved to Albuquerque in January of 1998 Tracy made it her mission to give me a little culture. I’m sure it became a somewhat frustrating endeavor for her. However, she did succeed on a few fronts. Most notably she dragged me to see the musical RENT when it came to The Duke City.
I was mesmerized. Now, I’m no huge musical fan. I either love (Sweeney Todd, Les Mis) or hate (Chicago) them.
And RENT ranks above the all for me. We were especially delighted when we got to see it in ABQ because home town boy Neil Patrick Harris (Doogie! Barney!) filled the role of Mark. We have listened to the soundtrack repeatedly over the last 10 years. And the movie was such a treat, although I am still outraged that they cut the most pivotal song of the musical from the theatrical release.
It is a powerful and stirring testament to the transforming and redeeming power of community in the midst of a harsh world. It speaks of finding love in the time we are given and making the most of what you have.
Anyway, I learned yesterday that the Broadway run of RENT will close on June 1 of this year. I most likely will never get to see it in its original location. But I can pay tribute to it here for giving me a deeper appreciation of musicals.
The clips below are from the movie version but that’s ok. All but two of the original broadway cast reprised their roles in the movie.

Seasons of Love

One Song Glory

Goodbye Love (This is an edited version that includes the complete song. I still can’t understand why they would cut the most pivotal song from the movie.)

No Day But Today

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Now playing: Darden Smith - First Day Of The Sun
via FoxyTunes