DRAWING inspiration from Puccini’s La Boheme, Jonathan Larson’s rock opera told the story of young, struggling artists in East Village New York towards the end of the twentieth century living in the shadow of HIV/AIDs.

A fast-paced story, it harnessed the chaos, noise and coarseness of the underbelly of New York life to depict a frantic live for the moment attitude.

Strikingly staged and lit, the production grabbed the audience by the scruff of the neck and did not let go.

It was blessed by a tremendously strong cast and choreography that had wit and audacity.

The lead players gave rounded and mature performances, each making their mark. As the sweet transvestite Angel, Joey Warne was stunning. He created a beautifully tender and believable partnership with Tayler Davis (Tom Collins) who was equally impressive. Owen Collick’s Mark also deserves mention, with the right level of tentativeness, tenderness and a nebbish quality.