Bowling Green State University will conclude its 2014-2015 theater season with the satirical musical Urinetown. A musical like no other, this show’s catchy numbers, witty dialogue, and storyline will leave audiences laughing.
Like many musicals opening in the 21st century, the show focuses on the underlying inauthenticity of our society. According to Jonathan Chambers, the director of BGSU’s Urinetown, “the authors of the work clearly know musical theater history, and have sought to create a piece that is both a nose-thumbing and loving tribute to that tradition.” Throughout the production, older, more serious musicals such as Les Miserables, The Cradle Will Rock, and West Side Story are harmlessly mocked through choreography, staging, and similar song styles.
‘Pay to pee’
The show opens with the idea that a long-lasting drought has caused a water shortage. To save water, the
megacorporation Urine Good Company [UGC] has taken control of all toilets, and the new harsh laws require people to pay to pee. Those who do not pay are exiled to Urinetown. After witnessing his father’s arrest for urinating on the street, Bobby Strong (played by Brett Mutter) decides people need to pee for free to live a happy life. When he meets Hope Cladwell (played by Micala Behrens)—unbeknownst that she is the daughter of UGCs CEO Caldwell Cladwell—they decide a rebellion needs to take place, and naturally, they fall in love. However, when the rebellion is on the verge of being destroyed, Bobby discovers that kidnapping Hope is the leverage he needs against UGC. While the Company tries to rescue Hope, the rebels hold strong and discover the truth behind Urinetown.
There are many thought-provoking moments hidden in the humor, too. According to Chambers, “the play
has smart things to say about the imprint of capitalism on our lives, the abuse of power…and the plight of the disadvantaged,” but as he added, “at the end of the day, it’s about people having to pay to pee…I hope [the audience] are smiling as they see it.”
This production will feature the talents of BGSU students and faculty, with many actors taking on multiple roles. Musical direction is by the accomplished pianist Kevin Bylsma and the beautiful choreography is directed by Greg Grimes. As stated by Chambers, one of the greatest rewards of directing this show is “working with a great committed community of artists.”
Urinetown, presented at Bowling Green State University, April 23-26. 8pm, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday and 2pm for Saturday and Sunday matinees. Recommended for mature audiences.
