Directed by Steven Maler and featuring a four-piece band, Without You plays City Theatre's 272-seat Mainstage. Opening is Sept. 3.

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In 1994 Anthony Rapp was working at a Manhattan Starbucks and about to audition for a new rock opera by an unknown composer-lyricist-librettist named Jonathan Larson. This is where Without You begins, according to City Theatre. The solo show (with band) had developmental performances in Manhattan in 2007. It's drawn from his published memoir of the same name.

"In his new one-man show, Anthony shares his audition for Rent, getting cast, rehearsals, and his view from the stage during the tribute performance on the night after Jonathan's tragic death," production notes reveal. "Without You also details Anthony's achingly beautiful relationship with his mother during this turbulent time. Featuring Anthony's own lyrics and melodies, stories adapted from his memoir, and the landmark songs of Rent, Without You is a valentine to the groundbreaking musical and celebrates all of our seasons of love."

The musicians include music director/guitarist David Matos and Daniel Tomko (bass) and A.T. Vish (drums). The design team is Tony Ferrieri (scenic), Angela M. Vesco (costumes), Andrew David Ostrowski (lighting) and Dave Bjornson (sound).

Patti Kelly is the production stage manager. Additional songs are by Anthony Rapp, John Keaney, David Matos, and Joe Pisapia.

Without You is adapted from Anthony Rapp's book "Without You: a Memoir of Love, Loss, and the Musical Rent," published by Simon & Schuster.

Rapp is best known for originating the role of Mark Cohen in Rent and performing it on Broadway and in the 2005 film adaptation. He is also well known to Pittsburgh audiences for his role in City Theatre's production of Hedwig and the Angry Inch.

For more information, visit www.citytheatrecompany.org.