Jason Sherwood has a deep-rooted connection to the award-winning musical Rent: as a young man, it was one of the first times he saw himself represented on stage, and he instantly fell in love with the story and its music. So, reviving this production for a live television audience is an honor he doesn’t take lightly. We sat down with Jason to chat about introducing this groundbreaking show to a new audience.
PC: Tell us about your connection with Rent.
Jason: I saw Rent as a teenager on Broadway, and it completely revolutionized what I knew about a musical. It felt vital, alive, and kinetic, and it really sank its hooks into me immediately. I fell in love with the story and music from the start. Also, very personally, it was the first that I, as a young gay person, saw two queer people sing a love song to one another. It meant a great deal to me and still does. To be given the opportunity to be the production designer and bring it to life on television for a new generation is a real honor.
PC: Did that add any pressure heading into this reincarnation?
Jason: It did and it didn’t! I knew what I would have been excited to see as a fan, and getting to have that in mind as we designed the show was very useful. Also, working with Michael Greif allowed our team to really hold onto the DNA and original spirit of the show while bringing it forward to our production.
PC: What was the experience like working with Michael Greif?
Jason: I have long admired Michael’s work, and for this to be our first collaboration is such a dream come true. He’s been my partner-in-crime for six months of this design process, and it’s been a true joy and master class. His attention to detail, his respect for his collaborators, and his razor-sharp storytelling instincts are unparalleled.
PC: What are some of the challenges of making this re-imagination your own, while also paying homage to the original production?
Jason: I like to say we are looking back while reaching forward. The time period is rich in history, art references, and the cultural landscape of New York—so there is a lot to pull from and examine. This part of the city in the early 90s was vibrant and dark and rich in artists of every background; it’s a deep well of inspiration.
PC: What are you most excited for audiences to see? What do you hope they take away?
Jason: Mostly, I hope we move even just one person the way the show moved me. If we can invigorate a young generation of people with this hopeful story and message, we will have made a success. On the design side, I’m excited to share some of our surprise visual moments.
PC: Besides Rent, do you have any other upcoming projects that you can chat about?
Jason: I’ve just come off of eighteen months collaborating with the brilliant Sam Smith on his TV appearances and tours. While I have one foot firmly set in my theatre home base, I’ve got some fun new ventures coming up in music and TV that I cannot wait to share.
PC: Guilty pleasure TV show?
Jason: The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel
PC: Guilty pleasure movie?
Jason: Sabrina
PC: Favorite book?
Jason: A Home at the End of the World by Michael Cunningham
Favorite play or musical?
Jason: Rent, duh [laughs]
PC: A band or artists that fans would be surprised to learn is on your playlist?
Jason: Bonnie Raitt
PC: Last show you binge-watched?
Jason: Transparent, for the 4th time.
PC: Hidden talent?
Jason: I do a killer Mrs. Doubtfire impression.
Keep up with Jason by following him on Facebook and Instagram, and catch Rent on Sunday at 8/7c.
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