ONE of the most popular ‘modern’ musicals of recent years is the first production by one of Colchester’s newest theatre companies.

Rent tells the story of a group of impoverished young artists struggling to survive and create a life in New York City's East Village in the thriving, counter-cultural days of bohemian Alphabet City, under the shadow of HIV/AIDS.

It ran for an incredible 12 years on Broadway, winning a Pullitzer Prize as well as Tony Awards.

This is the first show for OD Productions, a company created earlier this year by Olly Medlicott and David Rutter.

Having worked together previously on shows such as Mad Hatter Production’s of Into the Woods at the Headgate two years ago, the pair wanted to create a group which could include people of all ages brought together through their passion for theatre and performing.

With Olly’s background in music and David’s in drama, and both as heads of their respective subjects at schools in the region, together the pair believed they were the ideal team to produce and direct the gritty and challenging rock musical.

Thankfully they also have a great cast, ranging in age from eight to 75, including three generations of the same family, not to mention performers who have worked professionally and studied, or are currently studying, towards a career in performing arts.

Cast members include Joanna Daniels and Caroline Fritz both of whom have trained professionally as well as appearing in and directing local productions such as Sweet Charity at the Mercury Theatre in 2013.

With musical direction by Jade Hey, other familiar faces include Wade Ablitt, Shannon Hannah, Ellie Tate and Harry Totham, who have appeared in several award winning local productions, and most recently in the regional premiere of Legally Blonde at the Mercury Theatre.

• Rent Headgate Theatre, Chapel Street North, Colchester.

October 14 to 17. 7.45pm plus an extra 2.30pm on Saturday.

£12, £10 concessions. 01206 366000.

www.headgatetheatre.co.uk