by Francisco Santelli, Cypress Creek High School
Pay to pee? Who would’ve thought that such a ridiculous premise would make such a hilarious and self-depreciating musical? Freedom High School apparently did, since they pulled of a remarkable performance of Mark Hollmann and Greg Kotis’s hilarious Broadway musical, Urinetown.
In the musical, Urinetown is a world where people are forced to pay to pee by the giant and evil Urine Good Corporation who pays off the police and government to do their bidding. An idealistic Bobby Strong takes hold of the situation and starts a revolution for free peeing rights while falling in love with the daughter of the Urine Good CEO; Hope Cladwell. The entire musical is narrated by Officer Lockstock and commentated by a little girl named Sally.
Andre Reyna as Officer Lockstock was a hilarious and exciting narrator, pointing out not only the ridiculousness of the situation, but also the absurdity of musicals in general. Andre Reyna showcased his strong voice and immense acting talent, acting as a great opener and closer for the show. Darlinette Goris as Little Sally commanded the stage with every bit of dialogue she had, and did so in artful fashion.
One of the most exciting parts of the show was the remarkable ensemble work showcased by the rebellion group of Amenity #9. Their dancing was spot-on, their reactions hilarious, and their dialogue quick and witty. The entire cast of Urinetown was more than commendable, no one having a small role in Freedom High School’s overall success.
The tech work was also tight and well worked. The use of spotlights was taut, as was the beautifully gritty set. There were no noticeably missed cues, and each set change was completed with quick and quiet aptness. No detail was left unturned, with each technical flaw being hilariously intentional. There was a hiccup or two with the sound, but each hiccup was covered well by the continuously energetic cast.
It is hard to find fault with Freedom’s performance of Urinetown, being one of the most humorous of musicals I’ve seen out of a high school yet. Between their energetic cast and focused together tech crew, Freedom High School made the impossible possible with their remarkable performance of Urinetown.
Originally published in The Backstage Noise, Summer 2006
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