'Rent' star to share experiences

SPECIAL TO VIEWActor and musician Anthony Rapp, who played Mark Cohen in "Rent," will discuss his career and music on Saturday at UNLV. Advertisement

By AMANDA LLEWELLYN

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How do you measure a life?

Musician and actor Anthony Rapp, best known for his role as Mark Cohen in the musical "Rent," has long believed that it isn't with sunsets or minutes or hours or cups of coffee -- but with love.

"That was one of the primary messages of 'Rent,' " Rapp said. "To live your life and love all that you can."

Rapp will talk about his experiences with the play and life in general during an acoustic concert to feature original songs and covers at 8 p.m. Saturday in the Artemus W. Ham Concert Hall at UNLV. "This event will feature me with a piano or guitar, just jamming," Rapp said. "This is along the lines of shows like 'MTV Unplugged' and 'VH1 Storytellers,' which were popular in the '90s and featured artists talking about the stories behind their music."

Rapp plays regularly in his Indie-band Albino Kid, but opted for a more stripped-down, intimate version of the musical experience for the UNLV show.

"We did something similar last summer at a college campus, and I feel like it went over very well," Rapp said. "We got a warm welcome, and the kids really seemed to respond to the overall experience."

Rapp said that fans can expect to hear about the time he spent playing Mark in "Rent," as well as the personal stories behind his songwriting.

"I want to share what has inspired me in hopes that it might inspire others," Rapp said. "I think that songwriting is about capturing the essence of a moment in life. In that specific moment of emotional truth, whether you're talking about love or death or a breakup, if you can capture what you're feeling in that instant, it's good songwriting."

According to Larry Henley, director of artistic programs, this one-time event will not be a lavish concert, but an opportunity to hear a groundbreaking talent reminisce.

"Anthony is a youthful figure, and this program will be a bit edgier to appeal to a younger audience," Henley said. "We expect it to be a great evening."

Tickets are between $35 and $80 and can be purchased by calling 895-2787 or by visiting www.unlvtickets.com.