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How the Musical “Rent” Taught us About AIDS and Drugs

If Broadway and West End Productions have taught us anything, it’s that, despite a flood of cell phones, computers, and social media, music can bring us closer together. Melodies make us cry, laugh, or marvel over some of the most beautiful, heartwarming, or tragically real moments.. Whether we are flying high with Elphaba in Wicked or seeking popularity in Legally Blonde, colorful characters have taught us valuable lessons about love and life. However, have you ever thought about a musical that teaches us about drugs and, of all things, AIDS? Let’s take a closer look at how the revolutionary Broadway hit Rent changed the face of modern musicals.

Taking Us Back in Time

In the words of one immortal rock singer, the 1994 musical takes us “back in time” to the urban streets of Lower Manhattan on the Bohemian walk of Alphabet City. However, unlike other shows, this musical does not introduce us to a world of glamor. Instead, it exposes us to an unlikely subject: AIDS. Remember that hundreds of thousands of people were terrified of this virus. It is still widely considered taboo. In the world of Rent, not even the higher-ups are safe from this terrible virus, as we see with the character of Tom Collins, a professor who contracts AIDS.

Demon in the Bottle

Most importantly, though, the musical Rent boldly connects the AIDS virus with the terrible problems associated with drugs. Specifically drugs that were destroying lives during 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 retrieve her batches of heroin from a local dealer simply known as “the Man.” Near the end of the show, Mimi eventually reaches a breaking point and is close to death. In fact, her near-death experience inspires her to go back to her lover and enjoy her life.

Although the musical Rent provides a grim reminder of two subject matters that are considered controversial, the show does teach valuable lessons about love and life, and for those who are addicted to drugs, it might provide a shining ray of promise.

Seeking Treatment for Drug Abuse or Addiction

Drug abuse and addiction are dangerous mental illnesses. They not only wreak havoc on a victim’s private life but can also drive a wedge into a perfect reputation. Even more frightening, you will not know if you are an addict unless you take one shot of alcohol. Like any mechanical breakdown, though, you can easily patch yourself up and continue the trek uphill to freedom. However, with the right mixture of perseverance and determination, you can easily get back on track and be happy once more.

Are you suffering from a severe case of drug abuse or addiction? Do you have a friend or a loved one who is coping with the same illness? In both cases, get in touch us at with Asana Recovery today. Our professional team of counselors and healthcare experts will help you. They will guide you along the rocky road of rehabilitation. Soon enough, you will experience a faster and much more efficient recovery.

If you are seeking more information about our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs or enroll in one of these programs today, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your leisure and your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504. Learn how you can overcome your mental illness and take that extra step.