If Broadway and West End shows have taught us anything it’s that despite all the cell phones, computers and social media music can bring us together. Melodies make us cry, laugh or marvel at the most beautiful, heartwarming or tragically real moments.
Whether we’re flying high with Elphaba in Wicked or seeking popularity in Legally Blonde colorful characters have taught us lessons about love and life. But have you ever thought of a show that taught us about drugs and of all things AIDS? Let’s take a look at how the groundbreaking Broadway hit Rent changed the face of modern musicals.
Taking us Back in Time
As one rock legend would say the 1994 show takes us “back in time” to the urban streets of Lower Manhattan on the Bohemian walk of Alphabet City. But unlike other shows this show doesn’t introduce us to a glamorous world. It introduces us to an unlikely subject: AIDS. Remember hundreds of thousands of people were terrified of this virus. It’s still considered taboo. In the world of Rent not even the higher-ups are safe from this terrible virus as we see with Tom Collins the professor who gets AIDS.
Demon in the Bottle
Most importantly though the show connects the AIDS virus to the terrible problems of drugs. Specifically drugs that were destroying lives in the 90s. At one point we learn that the main character Mimi Márquez an S&M dancer is a hardcore drug addict. She has to get her heroin from a local dealer simply known as “the Man”. Towards the end of the show Mimi hits rock bottom and is almost dead. In fact her near death experience makes her go back to her lover and live her life.
Although Rent is a grim reminder of two taboo subjects the show does teach us lessons about love and life and for those who are addicted to drugs it might be a glimmer of hope.
Treatment for Drug Abuse or Addiction
Drug abuse and addiction are mental illnesses. They destroy a person’s private life and can ruin a good reputation. Even more scary you won’t know if you’re an addict unless you take a shot of alcohol. Like any car breakdown though you can patch yourself up and continue the climb to freedom. But with the right mix of perseverance and determination you can get back on track and be happy again.
Are you suffering from drug abuse or addiction? Do you have a friend or loved one who is struggling with the same illness? In either case contact us at Asana Recovery today. Our team of counselors and medical professionals will help you. They’ll guide you through the rough road of recovery. Soon you’ll be recovering faster and more efficiently.
For more information about our residential treatment or supervised detox/withdrawal programs or to enroll in one of these programs today we’re here to talk to you whenever and however you want. Call Asana Recovery now at (949)-763-3440. Get help for your mental illness today.
