Published July 27, 2010
By Letters to the Editor, Tri-City Herald

As a former actor for more than 20 years, I was a little concerned before seeing Columbia Basin College's production of Rent last weekend.  To put it simply, I shouldn't have been.  Nor should anyone else here in the Tri-Cities.  These kids did more than do the show justice. They discovered and showed the beautiful heart of this wonderful show.  It's not flawless, but it breathes and lives and dies on the stage, and that is exactly what makes live theater so magical.

Great performances by all, but a special nod to Ryan Thiessen and Jessica Ballard as Roger and Mimi.  They connect exceptionally, and in this humble actor's opinion are scratching the surface of being able to play these parts anywhere, on any stage.  To Ginny Quinley, John Tuttle and the entire production staff, thank you.  Smile deep and proud because you deserve it.  And fellow Tri-Citians, go see this show.  See it with open minds and open hearts.  See it as nothing more than people.  No agendas and no judgments.  Watch it with love in mind, and you never know, it might change your life.

A.J. James
Kennewick