An Inside Look: Rent el Musical (Barcelona)
Last week, I had the chance to see Rent el Musical at Teatre Condal in Barcelona, Spain! This was my first time ever seeing Rent in a language other than English as this production was entirely in Spanish and directed by Daniel Anglès.
At a Glance
🗺️ Location: Barcelona, Spain
📍 Venue: Teatre Condal➝
📅 Dates: 3/25/2019–5/26/2019
🎭 Type of Show: Musical
🌐 Language: Spanish
⏰ Runtime: 2.5 hours
About Rent el Musical
Rent is an iconic cult classic rock musical about a group of struggling young artists who are living in NYC during the 1980s/90s when the HIV/AIDS epidemic was at its peak
I was particularly impressed by Anna Herebia’s depiction of Maureen Johnson. Her energy of unpredictability and honest sexuality was just spot on. And lots of kudos to Albert Bolea for pulling off the role of Angel Dumott Schunard.
But somehow for me, the highlight of the night was the band! Although they were small in size, they were fierce! It was almost hard to believe that the music was live. The music direction of Miquel Tejada (see below) was on point, and every musician was at the top of their game. Actually, one of my favorite moments in the show was when Pol Barbé, the bass player, took center stage for his solo in “Santa Fe”.
A Conversation with Miquel Tejada
Miquel Tejada➝ is a musician, composer, singer, and songwriter. He is currently the musical director and keyboardist for Rent el Musical in Barcelona.
Stacy: When did you first discover your love for musical theatre?
Miquel: That’s a funny question because the first time I played in a musical was RENT, hahaha! I was 18 years old at the time.
Stacy: What has been one of your happiest career-related moments?
Miquel: There were many moments! But maybe I could point out conducting Fun Home. It has been one of the best musicals I have seen!
Stacy: Is there a musical that you would love to be a part of one day?
Miquel: Sure! The one I would love to be working on right now is Frozen. I love it!
“Accompany as many singers as you can. This is a good way to understand the singer’s behavior, and to get to know that very special instrument: the voice.” – Miquel Tejada
Stacy: Do you have any advice for new musicians?
Miquel: The first thing I would say to a new musician is to study and acquire the most conducting knowledge as you can, work, and play! And then, probably to accompany as many singers as possible. This is a good way to understand the singer’s behavior, and to get to know that very special instrument: the voice.
Stacy: What’s next for you?
Miquel: Well, right now I’m working on the composition of an international animation series. However there’s also something in sight that I can’t share just yet… hehehe.
A Conversation with Adri Mena
Adri Mena➝ is a composer, songwriter, producer and musical director. He is currently playing guitar and keyboards for Rent el musical in Barcelona.
Stacy: When did you first discover your love for musical theatre?
Adri: It was back in 2012 when playing the guitar in 13, the Musical. I fell in love with that show, and I’ve been working in musical theatre since then!
Stacy: What has been one of your happiest career-related moments?
Adri: I think the opening night of Hamlet, the first musical I wrote, was one of the happiest. That’s a day to remember!
Stacy: Is there a musical that you would love to be a part of one day?
Adri: Hamilton, no doubt. Or, wait, maybe In The Heights? Big fan of Lin-Manuel Miranda!
“Play, play and play. And above all, play for the show, not for you!” – Adri Mena
Stacy: Do you have any advice for new musicians?
Adri: Play, play and play. And above all, play for the show, not for you!
Stacy: What’s next for you?
Adri: I’m now playing in Rent and will soon be working in my studio composing new music for upcoming productions. Also longing to play in another musical after Rent closes!
About Teatre Condal
Teatre Condal was founded in 1903 by the Italian-born Onofri brothers. After serving as a cinema for a period in the 1960s and 1970s, the theatre returned to its roots as a venue for live performing arts. Today, it specializes in comedy and musical theatre. In addition to its main stage, Teatre Condal sometimes hosts smaller productions in The Club, a convertible bar area that offers a more intimate setting.
What to Know Before You Go
Most shows at the Teatre Condal are performed in Spanish. If you don’t speak the language but would still like to experience a performance here, I’d recommend selecting a play or musical that you’re able to get familiar with beforehand so you have a better sense of the story and can follow along more easily.
* The featured image is by David Ruano.
* A special thanks to Rent el Musical for the invitation to the show!
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Author: Stacy Karyn
Stacy Karyn is the founder of Theatre Trip and the author of The Thespian’s Bucket List. She is also the creator of The Cast Album List. Her background includes a BA in Theatre, a TESOL Drama certificate, and professional experience in Broadway and Off-Broadway theaters.
