Rehearsals for Rockhampton Regional Council's musical RENT are well underway at the Pilbeam Theatre and last weekend (Sunday 2 February) company members were treated to a visit by well known entertainer and former Ten Tenors member, Luke Kennedy.
Kennedy was brought to CQ by Rockhampton Regional Council to give cast members the benefit of his more than two decades in the entertainment industry.
Kennedy, who also coordinates The Little Red Company's education program Little Red Pathways, conducted masterclasses with the show's lead performers and worked with the whole company on character and atmosphere development.
Kennedy has an impressive range of music theatre and cabaret credits over more than two decades. He has also been part of the internationally acclaimed group The TEN Tenors and was the runner up in The Voice Australia in 2013. More recently he has regularly performed with Brisbane based Little Red company performing in many of their shows including Golden, which was performed at the Pilbeam Theatre in 2022.
Rockhampton Regional Council Communities, Culture and Heritage spokesperson Cr Drew Wickerson said that the workshop had been a great opportunity for cast members.
"Having Luke here to work with the RENT company has been a great learning experience for the cast," he said.
"This is a good example of how Council contributes to the professional development of local performers.
"The community musical itself is a great way for participants to enhance their skills and develop confidence. Bringing in an industry professional such as Luke gives an added benefit for those taking part," he said.
Kennedy will return to work with the cast again in the final weeks before opening night.
Set in the East Village of New York City, RENT by Jonathan Larson, is about falling in love, finding your voice and living for today. Winner of the Tony Award for Best Musical and the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, RENT has become a pop culture phenomenon, with songs that rock and a story that resonates with audiences of all ages.
Based loosely on Puccini's 1896 opera La Bohème, RENT allows the audience to step into the vibrant street of New York City's East Village, where dreams are born, friendships are tested, and the power of love prevails against all odds.
Directed by Amanda Hock, RENT will be performed at the Pilbeam Theatre from 21-29 March. Tickets are now on sale at the Pilbeam Theatre Box Office and www.seeitlive.com.au
RENT is Rockhampton Regional Council production, supported by the Friends of the Theatre and CQ Today.
