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URINETOWN IS THE SHIT
SCHOOL PERFORMS FIRST MUSICAL PRODUCTION IN EIGHT YEARS
STORY AND PHOTOS BY KRISTEN WOHLERS
“ It’s a privilege to pee.” In fact, it’s one of mankind’ s
most basic rights, but the right to pee comes with a fee
in this musical satire.
The Clackam as Com m unity College cast came out
strong for its first musical production in eight years,
with moments o f weak vocals overshadowed by solid
ones. Standout performances came from Taylor Miller as
Urine for a show. It might even
put a tinkle in your eye.
Caldwell B. Cladwell and Molly Bowman as Little Sally.
A few players shined in smaller roles, including Astrid
Bloodgood as Little Becky Two Shoes and Mykel Ilia as
Hot Blades Harry.
The band, under the direction of CCC music department
chair Lars Campbell, didn’t miss a beat. The elaborate
set, featuring repurposed ribbed metal from old farm
buildings, was accentuated by colorful lighting.
The show starts with a police officer dragging director
James Eikrem o ff the stage after his introductions and
before he can give away the plot. Officer Lockstock,
played by Carder Nicholas, doubles as the narrator. He
repeatedly breaks the fourth wall as he explains the play
to Little Sally, and reminds the audience that they are
watching a musical after all.
The “ poor chorus” proved themselves as a highlight
and showed o ff their dance m oves in the energetic
musical numbers with help from guest choreographer
Laura Sue Hiszczynskyj.
The Broadway production o f the show has won three
Tony awards. The script, with book and lyrics by Greg
Kotis and music and lyrics by Mark Hollm ann, did not
disappoint.
Officer Lockstock (right) is played by Carder Nicholas and Officer Barrel (left) is played by Colin Stewart.
The satirical comedy poked fun at just about everything,
including socialism, naive activism, hypocrisy, religion,
hope, and even at itself. In response to the notion that
nothing can kill a show like too much exposition, Little
Sally replied, "Or a bad title, even?That could kill a show
pretty good.”
But what is Urinetown? Well it depends on who you
ask. Officer Lockstock calls it “ a mythical place” that
“ you w on’ t see until act tw o.” Little Sally calls it a
“ metaphysical place,” Caldwell calls it “ an instrument
of power,” and Bobby Strong, played by Sam Levi, calls
it a lie. But don’ t take their word for it, come out and
decide for yourself.
The musical continues with performances at Osterman
Theatre on Thursday, May 26, to Saturday, May 28, at
7:30 p.m . and the finale on Sunday May, 29 at 2:30 p.m .
Urine for a show. It m ight even put a tinkle in your
eye. You gotta go! So put the seat down, and relax.
Sam Levi plays Bobby Strong and Madison Stevens
plays Hope Cladwell.
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