The Riverside City College (RCC) Theatre Department’s production of RENT opens on April 3 at 7 p.m. at the Landis Performing Arts Center, bringing Jonathan Larson’s iconic rock musical to life with raw emotion and an electric energy. With a talented cast and an immersive staging concept, this production captures the rebellious spirit that has made RENT a cultural touchstone for nearly three decades.

At the heart of the show is Matthew Benavides, making his lead role debut as Tom Collins. As the kind-hearted philosophy professor who falls deeply in love with Angel, Benavides delivers a moving and emotionally charged performance. His chemistry with co-star Christian Sanchez, who plays the free-spirited and lovable Angel, is both tender and compelling. Their relationship anchors some of the show’s most emotional moments, particularly in "I'll Cover You (Reprise)," where Benavides' powerhouse vocals and raw vulnerability will bring the audience to tears. Sanchez, in turn, brings a radiant energy to Angel, balancing charm, humor, and depth in a performance that leaves a lasting impression.

Carter Friedhof shines as Roger Davis, the struggling musician battling grief and his own fears of love. His portrayal is passionate and emotionally resonant, capturing Roger’s tortured soul while also delivering powerhouse vocals, especially in "One Song Glory." Opposite him, Bianca Garcia’s fiery rendition of Joanne Jefferson adds a sharp, commanding presence to the production. Garcia’s vocal prowess is a standout throughout the show, with her performance in "Take Me or Leave Me" leaving the audience in awe. Her chemistry with Maureen is electric, making their tumultuous relationship all the more engaging.

The production embraces an intimate approach, situating the audience on the Landis stage itself. This close proximity to the performers creates an immersive experience, making the struggles and triumphs of the characters even more immediate and poignant. Director Jodi Julian has crafted a production that remains true to RENT’s bohemian roots while bringing fresh energy to its themes of love, loss, and resilience.

The ensemble cast—comprised of familiar faces like Austin McConnell, Ryan Hemmerling, and Mattie Gaines, among others—delivers strong performances across the board. From the electric dynamic of Mark and Roger to the fiery passion between Maureen and Joanne, every relationship feels authentic. The group vocals in numbers like "Seasons of Love" and "La Vie Bohème" fill the theater with an infectious energy that lingers long after the final curtain.

Visually, the production makes effective use of a minimalist yet evocative set design, enhanced by dynamic lighting choices from Gavin Wywrick, that shift between vibrant celebration and somber introspection. The balance between the high-energy rock elements and the deeply personal moments is handled with care, ensuring that the emotional beats land with full impact.

RCC’s RENT runs from April 3–5, with performances at 7 p.m. each night and an additional matinee on April 5 at 2 p.m. Tickets are available for purchase online at rccboxoffice.com/rcctheatre, where audience members can select their seats and find more information about the show. With standout performances from Matthew Benavides, Christian Sanchez, Carter Friedhof, and Bianca Garcia, this production is a must-see for musical theater lovers in Riverside.