MARTINSBURG, WV - Students in Martinsburg are tackling very controversial and sensitive topics like AIDS and homosexuality and they're doing it with an award-winning production of a famous Broadway show.

"Rent" may be a simple word, but when it comes to the musical it's anything but that.  It’s a controversial show that tackles taboo topics.

Director Dave Ryan said, “I think it's very important to get this info out to the community.  We are hoping that this show is used and seen as an ice breaker to allow students to talk about these issues."

Students from five high schools in Martinsburg are coming together to put on the show.  Only nine other high schools in the country received the rights to the show.

More than just a high school performance, the show is also an educational program.  They are going to be holding an open forum right before the program starts, and also handing out health awareness brochures.

No matter what you think about the show, the students have one message that's undeniable.

Performer Zachary Rutherford says, "Live life.  Embrace it.  No day but today.”

Rent will be performed this Friday and Saturday at 7:30, and Sunday at 2:30.

The open forum discussion about HIV will take place 30 minutes before each show.