Anthony Rapp from the Tony Award-winning rock opera “Rent” will speak at UF April 18.
Best known for originating the role of Mark Cohen in the Broadway production in 1996 and for reprising the role in the 2005 movie adaptation, Rapp will speak on a variety of topics including how art relates to society.
Hosted by Reitz Union Board Entertainment and Accent Speaker’s Bureau, the free event will be at 8 p.m. in the Reitz Union Grand Ballroom.
Jordan Fine, co-director for RUB Entertainment’s Arts Committee, said there will be wristbands for the event. However, RUB is still determining how and when they will be distributed.
Fine said RUB considered several artists.
“We wanted to cater to a very wide audience, and I feel like Anthony Rapp was a good choice,” said the 20-year-old digital arts and sciences engineering junior.
Rapp will be paid $15,000 to speak.
To warm up for the event, RUB Entertainment will show “Rent” at the Reitz Union Cinema at 10 p.m. April 16.
Lindsey Dresbach looks forward to seeing Rapp.
Having seen the show on Broadway when she was 12, Dresbach said she still likes to listen to the movie soundtrack.
“I would love to see him,” said the 20-year-old telecommunication sophomore. “Honestly, I think he portrayed the character perfectly.”
Contact Alexa Volland at avolland@alligator.org.
