BROOKINGS – State University Theatre begins its 2017-18 season with “RENT,” with music and lyrics by Jonathon Larson.

The pop culture phenomenon is a reimagining of Puccini’s La Bohème and winner of the Tony Award for Best Musical and Pulitzer Prize for Drama, “RENT” follows an unforgettable year in the lives of seven artists struggling to follow their dreams under the shadow of HIV. Its message of joy and hope in the face of fear, this celebration of friendship and creativity reminds one to measure lives with the only thing that truly matters – love.

The cast for “RENT” is: Steven Marienau as Roger (Hawarden, Iowa), Bradley Hermann (Sioux Falls) as Mark, Alex Garcia (Sioux Falls) as Collins, Isaiah Dietz (Brandon Valley) as Angel, Braden Paulsen (Brandon Valley) as Benny, Brooklyn Schwiesow (Lakeville, Minnesota), Morea Nichols (Alvord, Iowa), Macy Swanson (Mitchell), with the ensemble of Jamie Mundwiler (Milbank), Joshua Rietsma (Sioux Falls), Christian Withers (Washington, Missouri), Bret Werpy (Brookings), Taylor Walker (Sioux Falls), Willow Cowherd (Rapid City) and Morgan Oliver (Dakota Dunes), directed by W. James Wood.

“RENT” will be performed Oct. 4-7 at 7:30 p.m. and Oct. 8 at 2 p.m. Performances will be held in Doner Auditorium located in Morrill Hall. Please note that this musical contains mature themes and language. The Doner Auditorium box office opens one hour before performances.

Tickets are now available at Performing Arts Center at South Dakota State University from noon to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. One may also purchase season subscriptions, which include tickets for all four SUT shows at a discounted price. For more information, visit www.sdstate.edu/theatre-dance, find SUT Facebook, visit the PAC box office or call 688-6045.