Jonathan Larson, a multifaceted individual with a passion for the performing arts, was born on February 4, 1960, in Mount Vernon, New York, to Allan and Nanette Larson. This talented actor and musician was granted a full scholarship to Adelphi University, located on Long Island, where he had the opportunity to meet his idol and later mentor, the renowned Stephen Sondheim.
After completing his studies, Larson relocated to the East Village neighborhood of Manhattan, where he spent the next 12 years honing his craft, writing numerous plays and musicals. One of his notable creations was the off-Broadway hit "Tick...tick...BOOM!", which showcased his exceptional talent.
It wasn't until 1994 that Larson began working on what would eventually become his magnum opus, Rent. After completing the musical in 1995, it was set to premiere off-Broadway in early 1996. Tragically, the night of the final dress rehearsal, Jonathan Larson's life was cut short due to an aortic dissection, a result of later-to-be-known Marfan's syndrome.
