Latest update: Full casting has been announced for Jonathan Larson’s RENT, which begins performances at London’s Tom Stoppard Theatre on 26 September 2026. Alexa Lopez will make her West End debut as Mimi, joining Gaten Matarazzo, Travis Ross, Billy Nevers, Lazy Violet, Danielle Fiamanya, Jeevan Braich and Joaquin Pedro Valdes.
Latest Update
Alexa Lopez has been announced as Mimi in the new West End production of RENT. Bella Brown will no longer appear in the role after withdrawing because of an injury sustained before rehearsals.
The production celebrates 30 years since RENT premiered on Broadway and is directed by Olivier Award winner Luke Sheppard.
Overview
Set in New York’s East Village, RENT follows a group of young artists, musicians and friends navigating love, ambition, creativity and community. Jonathan Larson’s musical is inspired by Puccini’s La Bohème and features music, lyrics and book by Larson.
Cast
- Gaten Matarazzo — Mark
- Travis Ross — Roger
- Alexa Lopez — Mimi
- Billy Nevers — Collins
- Lazy Violet — Maureen
- Danielle Fiamanya — Joanne
- Jeevan Braich — Angel
- Joaquin Pedro Valdes — Benny
The company is completed by Baylie Carson, Laura Delany, Ryesha Higgs, Montoya Holloway-Johnson, Rhys Hopkins, Shem Omari James, Hannah Macpherson, TJ Matara-Holloway, Ryan Nixon, Leah Vassell, James Wilkinson-Jones and Kevin Yates.
Creative Team
- Book, music and lyrics — Jonathan Larson
- Director — Luke Sheppard
- Choreographer — Tom Jackson Greaves
- Set design — David Woodhead
- Costume design — Gabriella Slade
- Lighting design — Howard Hudson
- Audio production and sound design — Paul Gatehouse
- Video design and cinematography — George Reeve and Nathan Amzi
- Make-up and hair design — Jackie Saundercock
- UK casting — Pearson Casting CSA, CDG, CDA
- US casting — Jim Carnahan CSA
- Musical supervisor — Bill Sherman
- Musical director and associate musical supervisor — Katy Richardson
- Intimacy director — Asha Jennings-Grant
- Associate director — Priya Patel Appleby
- Dialect coach — Joe Trill
Production Images
Dates and Venue
RENT begins performances on 26 September 2026, with opening night on 8 October 2026. The production is currently booking until 27 March 2027.
Venue: Tom Stoppard Theatre, St Martin’s Lane, London WC2N 4BG. The venue is currently known as the Duke of York’s Theatre.
Tickets
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Tickets and current availability are available through ATG Tickets. Ticket prices and availability can change, so check the live booking page before planning your visit.
Why See It
This is a major new West End staging of one of musical theatre’s best-known rock musicals, arriving in London as RENT marks 30 years since its Broadway premiere. It also brings together a cast with credits spanning Broadway, the West End and major UK productions.
My History with RENT
I first reviewed RENT back in 2017 during its 20th anniversary tour, when I went into the show knowing very little about it. That production completely got me — I gave it five stars and was still trying to get to grips with the emotions of it the following day.
That older review is staying live as part of the Clarissa’s Corner theatre archive, so this 2026 guide can sit alongside it rather than replacing it. Read my original RENT review here.
There is another familiar connection for me with this new production too: Gaten Matarazzo is playing Mark, and I already know him from watching Stranger Things. That makes seeing what he does with a very different character on a West End stage especially interesting. If you follow the screen-to-stage crossover too, you can also explore my Stranger Things: The First Shadow London guide.
Accessibility
Accessibility information for the Tom Stoppard Theatre should be checked directly with the venue before booking, particularly for step-free access, accessible seating and assistance requirements.
Practical Information
- Performances from: 26 September 2026
- Opening night: 8 October 2026
- Booking until: 27 March 2027
- Venue: Tom Stoppard Theatre, St Martin’s Lane, London WC2N 4BG
FAQ
Who is playing Mimi in RENT in London?
Alexa Lopez will play Mimi and make her West End debut in the role.
Who is playing Mark?
Gaten Matarazzo, best known to many audiences as Dustin Henderson in Stranger Things, will play Mark.
When does RENT open in London?
Performances begin on 26 September 2026, with opening night on 8 October 2026.
How long is RENT booking for?
The production is currently booking until 27 March 2027.
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