Stranger Things star Gaten Matarazzo is set to make his West End debut in a modern revival of the rock musical Rent, celebrating its 30th anniversary since its Broadway premiere. This marks a significant moment for the actor, who has already performed on Broadway since childhood and is now stepping into the spotlight once again, this time in a different city and a different era of musical theatre.
What makes this casting particularly intriguing is Matarazzo's recent rise to fame through his portrayal of Dustin Henderson in the Netflix sci-fi horror series, Stranger Things. The show's success has propelled him into the global spotlight, but his stage experience and versatility as an actor cannot be overlooked. With a background in Broadway productions like Priscilla, Queen of the Desert and Les Misérables, as well as recent roles in Dear Evan Hansen and Sweeney Todd, Matarazzo brings a wealth of talent to the role of Mark, Rent's narrator and a documentary filmmaker.
The revival of Rent is directed by Luke Sheppard, who has previously worked on Paddington: The Musical and recently won an Olivier Award for his work. Sheppard's return to Rent promises a fresh take on the musical, staying true to Larson's original vision while adapting it for a new generation. The show's producers, Chris Harper and Sonia Friedman, emphasize the importance of honoring Larson's legacy while making it relevant to modern audiences.
Rent, written and composed by Jonathan Larson, is a groundbreaking musical that premiered in 1996, just one day before Larson's untimely death. The show tackled social taboos and brought the stories of LGBTQ+ people during the HIV/Aids epidemic to the forefront, giving a voice to those who were often marginalized. Larson's impact on the musical theatre world is undeniable, and his work continues to inspire and influence new generations of performers.
Matarazzo's involvement in Rent adds an exciting layer to the revival, as he steps into the shoes of a character who has been a part of the show's history. The actor's ability to connect with audiences, both on screen and on stage, makes him a perfect fit for this role. As the show prepares for its London premiere on September 26, 2026, at the Duke of York Theatre, fans and critics alike will be eager to see how Matarazzo brings his own interpretation to the iconic musical.
