RENT, the musical that rocked Broadway is back, making its debut this Saturday at Sydney Opera House. Calista Nelmes is reprising her show-stealing, award-winning role as the spirited Maureen.
The Scoop had the chance to have a very quick chat with Calista ahead of the season. Calista talks all things RENT, including how she stays vocally healthy on tour and why this musical has endured after nearly 30 years. Read the full interview below.
How does it feel to be returning to the role of Maureen after performing in the show last year? What’s different this time around, either about the production, your interpretation of the character or just where you are now as a performer?
I’m so excited to be returning. This show truly changed my life in a lot of different ways, and I can’t believe I get to do it at the Sydney Opera House! I would say my version of Maureen remains just as fearless and crazy as ever, but the new cast members bring a really great, fresh take on the characters they’re stepping into.
RENT is many people’s all-time favourite musical (myself included!). Why do you think RENT still resonates with audiences today, nearly 30 years after its debut?
History may not repeat itself, but it certainly rhymes! The themes of the show are definitely still relevant to a lot of the issues we are struggling with in today’s society. And as human beings, we always need that reminder to lead with love and live each day as if it were our last.
Your voice is simply phenomenal. How do you stay vocally healthy while on tour? Do you have any tips for singers, or any pre or post-show rituals?
I steam morning and night, and I have a ginger crystal tea that I cart around in a tumbler that I’m convinced has magical de-swelling powers. I also try to drink as much water as possible, and in my spare time, I’m at home being quiet, aka having no social life.
The next two questions we always ask at The Scoop, because we love hearing the answers. Are there any roles or shows on your personal bucket list? What is the next dream role for you?
Heather Chandler in Heathers or Jenna in Waitress. I also would like to be a Swing at least once; my brain loves multitasking.
And finally, what advice would you give to anyone wanting to get into this industry?
Don’t let anyone else define what your success should look like, make sure your mental health is always a priority, and remember to have fun! I feel like we forget when we’re in the depths of the hustle that is showbiz that we get to sing and dance and play pretend for a job…how fun!
RENT runs from 27 September at the Joan Sutherland Theatre, Sydney Opera House.
Tickets: https://opera.org.au/productions/rent-sydney/
Website: https://rentmusical.au/
Socials: https://www.instagram.com/rentmusicalau/ and https://www.instagram.com/calista_nelmes/
Photo credits: Michelle Grace Hunder
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