Student deals with heavy themes in RENT

Whether or not you have any experience acting, getting exactly what you want is always exhilarating. Imagine having always gotten smaller roles, and then finally getting a lead role in a play. That’s what a young MHCC thespian has finally achieved.

Cole Hampton portrays the character of Roger, who is having a tough go of things, in MHCC’s upcoming production of “RENT.” Roger’s ex-girlfriend recently committed suicide when she found out that she had contracted AIDS and gave it to Roger. He is trying to recover from the loss of someone close, while also dealing with the fact that he has AIDS, and might not live much longer.

Hampton explains, “I’m trying to deal with the character conceptually, like walking down the street with the knowledge that I might die tomorrow. It’s definitely heavy, man.” To some it may be too depressing playing this brooding character in a play that deals with such heavy themes. However, Hampton says that because he has so much fun with the cast, it balances out.

Hampton has had a passion for theater since high school. “I love theater and everyone associated with it. Whether it be a lead, supporting role or someone just singing in the chorus, I find it to be such an enriching experience,” Hampton said. He performed in a few dramas in high school, and was relegated mainly to supporting roles and background characters.

This is Hampton’s first lead role in a play, which he said excites him. He didn’t know anything about “RENT” prior to this production, but Roger is the part Hampton had his mind set on. “I just felt I would naturally fit into that role,” he said.

Even though this is Hampton’s first big role, he said nerves aren’t a factor. “I’ve always liked the limelight and am very eager to get my first chance to go out there and give it my all,” Hampton said.

This play does deal with some adult themes and language but Hampton said, “No, It doesn’t bug me. These are mature themes but I feel these are also very relevant themes as well.”

As a student at MHCC, Hampton must juggle school, commuting and his brooding theater persona. “I tried taking it a little easier this term with the play and all,” Hampton said.

He is undecided on his major and has a full schedule of 12 credits. He also commutes via public transportation every day, which can lead to some early mornings. “It’s a little exhausting sometimes, but I make it happen.”

Hampton will perform his first lead role as the tragic Roger when “RENT” begins Feb. 22 in the College Theater on the Gresham campus.