Rent has been my favourite musical since I was 17, so I was always going to have feelings about its return to the West End. Quite a lot of feelings, as it turns out. Luke Sheppard’s sensational new production absolutely blew me away, and, judging by the response on opening night and the flurry of four and five-star reviews, I’m in good company. Jonathan Larson’s story of young artists finding love, friendship, and a family of their own in New York amid the AIDS crisis still hits hard. The music is incredible, the emotion is enormous, and this cast gives it everything.
Led by Gaten Matarazzo, who is fantastic as filmmaker Mark, and Travis Ross as Roger, this is a company packed with talent. Alexa Lopez’s Mimi, Lazy Violet’s Maureen, Danielle Fiamanya’s Joanne, and Joaquin Pedro Valdes’s Benny all help make this a thrilling return for a show I love so much. There’s something particularly wonderful about hearing songs you’ve known for nearly three decades sung by a cast who make you fall for them all over again.
And then there’s Billy Nevers. What an incredible Collins. He brings warmth, humour, and a voice that moved me deeply, with gorgeous chemistry opposite Jeevan Braich’s Angel (read my interview with Jeevan here). Their relationship is everything you want it to be, which makes Billy’s performance of ‘I’ll Cover You (Reprise)’ even more heart-breaking. He earned a standing ovation. Mid-show. Thoroughly deserved.
But there’s rather more to opening night than the bit we get to see from our seats. With photographer Sophie Scott on hand, Billy took us along for his special night. Check out these BTS shots as he picks out his outfit, catches up with his onstage love, and swaps costume for party clothes before heading to the after-party to celebrate. Here’s his night, in his own words and pictures.
Choosing an outfit, preparing to walk the red carpet.
Landed on this pinstripe suit from Moss Bros to take some pre show photos.
Outside the theatre as cast members and guests are arriving ahead of the big night.
My co star and onstage lover Jeevan Braich.
Show DONE and now straight into getting ready mode. Wearing a charcoal two piece from Seventh Stores.
Final touches before rushing to the after party
Smiling seeing my cast mates party looks!!
Made it to the party and straight into press.
Overwhelmed with people’s kindness and words about the show!!!
Finally found my team who make everything happen!!!!
One of our producers Sonia Friedman.
Finally a chance to sit down!!!
Billy can be seen in the 30th-anniversary West End revival of Rent at the Tom Stoppard Theatre in London from September 26, 2026, to May 29, 2027.
For more info and to book tickets visit www.rentthemusical.com
Follow Billy via @billylukenevers
Intro by Nick Barr
Photography Sophie Scott / @soapscott)
