BWW Reviews: Humor and Heart Punctuate URINETOWN

Hot Summer Nights | Theatre Raleigh's Urinetown is the latest resident of Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts's A. J. Fletcher Opera Theater. The 2001 musical comedy, written by Mark Hollmann and Greg Kotis, takes place during a decades-long drought which has caused water to be a precious commodity. The strain on resources leads to a world in which private toilets are no more, and the public must pay to use the restroom. Narrated by a policeman named Officer Lockstock, along with pigtailed Little Sally, Urinetown follows Bobby Strong, a public amenity employee who dares to ask, "what if the law is wrong?" Seeing the plight of those around him as they struggle to come up with the funds to use the pay-per-pee toilets, Bobby starts a revolution by letting customers in for free and standing up to greedy businessman Caldwell B. Cladwell. During his journey, he meets the woman of his dreams, who happens to be Cladwell's daughter, Hope. Filled with playful musical theater references, political schemes, and plenty of heart, Urinetown is a success for Hot Summer Nights | Theatre Raleigh.

The cast and creative team really seem to understand the particular brand of comedy that Urinetown serves - the show is a loving parody of the musical theater genre in general, and not just the actors, but the characters are very aware of the purpose of the humor. The inventive way in which the show is written makes the humor just as accessible for die-hard musical theater fans who understand every minor reference as it is for folks who don't see many musicals. The show also has a sociopolitical message, as it explores the abuse of power, the demands of the people, and the strain on the planet's natural resources.

The show's romantic leads, Hope and Bobby are played by Cameron Caudill and Brennan Caldwell, respectively. The two, under the direction of Richard Roland, are able to find the right balance between playing up the show's inherent camp and creating characters that the audience cares about. Caldwell's Bobby is passionate, curious, and not quite as naïve as he initially seems. Caudill's Hope is innocent and lovable, and Caudill's excellent vocals bring her character to the next level. The two complement each other very well, particularly in the song "Follow Your Heart," in which their voices come together quite nicely. They and the rest of the cast of talented singers are accompanied by a great band, under the direction of Julie Bradley. The small band sounds much bigger than it is as it brings the upbeat, Tony-winning score to life.

Urinetown has audiences doubled over in laughter, all the while offering the audience a little perspective. After seeing how these characters live, waiting in line to use the (free) restroom at intermission may just make you feel a little spoiled.

Playing in the Fletcher Opera Theater, Urinetown runs through August 11. For tickets and more information, visit www.theatreraleigh.com. The show is recommended for everyone ages thirteen and up.

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