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March 15, 2012

'Rent' a show not to be missed

To the editor:

Thank you for the article last week about the NHS production of "Rent." I am the guitarist in the show. I contacted the music director when I heard they were doing this show. I played it two years ago in Portsmouth and was looking for an opportunity to play it again.

I want you to know, I did 28 performances of "Rent" in Portsmouth, with all professional actors, staff and musicians. It was great, as you would expect ... fantastic really, but here's the thing: These kids in Newburyport have made an emotional connection and commitment to the characters and to the story that is every bit as compelling as a professional ensemble. That I was not prepared for.

If you haven't been to see the show, I encourage you to do so.

While many think that the centerpiece of the story is dealing with AIDS, I would suggest that the other issues discussed in "Rent," for example, self-actualization, insecurity, acceptance of those different than yourself and love are completely applicable to every high school student; in fact, those emotions are probably at peak levels. Sometimes theater can break down barriers and foster discussion of difficult subjects; I think it is certainly doing that here. I ask you to please use your power to spread the word so that NHS can bring this message to as many people as possible. This company is exceptional. There are only three shows left and to put it plainly, stuff this good doesn't happen too often. (Performances are today, tomorrow and Saturday at 7 p.m. at the high school auditorium.)

Dennis Munroe

Portsmouth, N.H.

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