AIDS, drug addiction, same sex relations and exotic dancing combined with real friendship, true love and modern day living was expressed through dance and music in the rock opera “RENT.“

The stage was realistically set in the back alley of an apartment complex where the characters live. Along with this massive set, a live band off stage right accentuated the live atmosphere of the show. No pre-recorded music was used for this production.

The question is, did it meet the expectations of the director, cast, as well as the audience? The cast members, who live and breathe the production whether in rehearsal or live on stage, say yes.

“I think we finally solidified our characters,” said cast member Pablo Gonzalez who played the infamous Angel. “It feels so real now.”

The director of the musical, Rolland Petrello, Moorpark College professor of Communication Studies and Theatre, said he was very happy with the production. He anticipated an 80 percent theatre capacity per show, a number that was met and surpassed.

 “The play was very colorful,” said 18-year-old MC student Kelly Eisenbrand. “I felt the chemistry between Angel and Collins was the most realistic.”

The two characters Angel and Collins were together in a homosexual relationship, and their surrounding friends looked to their companionship in the highest regard.

Other cast members were non-students and there to support their community as well as to enjoy the show. Some members saw the production elsewhere and were curious to see Moorpark’s reenactment.

“Even though it was hard to hear over the band at times, I did enjoy the singing,” said Brandon Plush, 23, who had the chance to see the same production on Broadway. “I was, however, disappointed with the dancing, my impression was there was to be much more of it.”

For more information, please contact the MC box office at (805) 378-1485, or visit online at www.moorparkcollege.edu/PAC.