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Sex is becoming a very public theme across the cultural landscape of London at the moment. Not only is there a large exhibition at the Barbican exploring the relationship between sex and art but the musical ‘Rent’ by Jonathan Larson has come back to the west end with a sexy new look orchestrated by the creative team that works with none other than popstrel, Kylie Minogue.
‘Rent’ broke many theatrical boundaries when it first opened in New York in 1996, a rock musical/opera version of Puccini’s ‘La Boheme’ that inspired a more up-to-date story that deals with the realities of contemporary life. It was hailed by the New York Times as the return of the musical that dared to take the culture's temperature and catch it’s tempo; yet since the late 90s we are now in a new place, hence an updated story and cast and the birth of ‘Rent Remixed’.
‘Rent Remixed’ deals with sexuality, HIV, Aids and drug addiction in a modern setting with an opening cast that includes one-time Big Breakfast presenter, actress, Denise Van Outen, Leon Lopez of Hollyoaks and ex Sugababe, Siobhan Donaghy. Directed by William Baker who is credited with shaping the contemporary image we have of Kylie Minogue, think charity shop gold hot pants and Dolce and Gabbana corset dresses. Baker is no stranger to the music industry having worked with Bjork, Geri Halliwell and PJ Harvey to create performance pieces; ‘Rent Remixed’ promises to be a stunning visual feast on top of the cool young things that make up the actors.
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