Matarazzo Leads London's 30th Anniversary Revival of 'Rent'
Gaten Matarazzo stars as Mark in a new West End revival of Jonathan Larson's 'Rent,' directed by Luke Sheppard. Opening October 8 at the Tom Stoppard Theatre, the production marks the show's 30th anniversary and its first major revival in two decades. Critics praise the ensemble's raw emotional delivery and Sheppard's faithful yet fresh staging, while Matarazzo transitions from his 'Stranger Things' fame to a demanding stage role.
Key points
- Gaten Matarazzo plays Mark, the narrator, in a new West End production of 'Rent' at the Tom Stoppard Theatre.
- Director Luke Sheppard, known for 'Paddington the Musical,' is staging the show for its 30th anniversary.
- The production opened on October 8, 2026, with tickets available through May 2027.
- The cast includes Travis Ross as Roger, Alexa Lopez as Mimi, and Jeevan Braich as Angel.
- Critics describe the revival as emotionally intense, with strong vocal performances and a focus on the AIDS crisis narrative.
Background
This revival follows a 2020 socially distanced staging by Sheppard at Manchester's Hope Mill Theatre. It coincides with a one-night 30th anniversary concert on Broadway. The production is produced by Chris Harper Productions and Sonia Friedman Productions.
How outlets are covering it
Variety highlights Matarazzo's personal journey from a child Broadway actor to a Netflix star, emphasizing his anxiety and preparation for the role. BBC focuses on the contrast between the structured theater schedule and the chaotic filming of 'Stranger Things,' noting Matarazzo's appreciation for the routine. Playbill provides detailed production credits and casting information, including the full ensemble and technical team. Theatre and Tonic offers a critical review, praising the direction, choreography, and vocal performances, particularly Billy Nevers' rendition of 'I'll Cover You (Reprise).' All sources agree on the emotional weight of the production, though Variety and BBC focus more on the star power, while Playbill and Theatre and Tonic emphasize the artistic and technical execution.
Why it matters
The revival of 'Rent' is significant as it marks the 30th anniversary of the groundbreaking musical, which was a pivotal moment for queer representation and AIDS awareness. The production aims to connect a new generation of audiences with the historical context of the HIV/AIDS crisis, while also addressing contemporary anxieties through the lens of the original 1990s setting. It demonstrates the enduring relevance of Jonathan Larson's work and the ability of classic musicals to resonate with modern audiences.
What to watch
The production will continue at the Tom Stoppard Theatre through May 2027. There is no immediate indication of a Broadway transfer, as director Luke Sheppard has stated he is focused on the current London run. Audiences can purchase tickets through the official website, with day-of tickets available for young fans.
- ‘Rent,’ Reborn: How Star Gaten Matarazzo, Director Luke Sheppard and a Perfectly Cast West End Ensemble Are Giving the Musical Its Biggest Revival Yet Variety
- Gaten Matarazzo swaps Stranger Things for Rent in West End BBC
- Check Out Photos of London Rent Revival, Starring Stranger Things' Gaten Matarazzo Playbill
- RENT at Tom Stoppard Theatre Review Theatre and Tonic
- Rent review — 30 years on, this musical still rocks The Times
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