Urinetown: The Musical

by Erin Delaney

Lockstock and Barrel. Two characters that when combined, do an excellent rap about a town of urine. Interesting concept, yes? Certainly enough to cultivate some interest amongst our student body. If I live a thousand years, I will never be quite so entertained by two police officers breaking it down onstage. Not that you see that particular phenomenon occur on a regular basis. Major kudos to Richard Bastuck and George Hider for that one. It does take guts to not only belt out, but also dance stylishly to a rap about pee. The endearing naïve nature of Hope Cladwell, however, also made the show. Even the opening (especially the opening) was made more than chuckle-worthy by the much-loved Kuba Kierlanczyk. I suppose you would actually have had to seen the show to understand.

Unbeknown to me when I entered the balcony, looking for a few cheap laughs, the play contained some very unexpected plot twists. I never thought I’d see the day when “Urinetown” would be a legitimate metaphor that, when applied to the world, makes perfect sense. Shocking, I know. Perhaps no one in the show got quite as many laughs as the almighty Justice Kibbe, who undertook the role of a crooked politician. The politician’s extreme social awkwardness was perfectly portrayed by Kibbe, who was much appreciated by the audience for his performance. Sometimes it is surprising how seemingly small roles can add such color to plays. Cheers to you, my friend and our fearless leader.

Of course, credit also needs to be given to the chorus. Alison Sher’s ability to dance and cartwheel with a fake, but enormous pregnant belly was astounding. Also, you’ve just got to love that Jack Begert. Hopping around the stage as a very cute bunny, Morgan Firestine helped play off Martin Bonventre’s general vivacious nature, creating quite a spectacular scene. Coco Vonnegut brought a quirky fun to her role as the town’s innocent little girl, Little Sally. The pink pigtails may have been the best hair in the entire show. Annie Massa brought her usual sparkly personality into the role of Mrs. Strong, the mother of one of the play’s leads Bobby Strong, played by Chris Palermo. Getting to Bobby, I was wholly entranced by the almost preacher-like river song. Definitely a good pick for the part.

Yes, from the play-long side monologue by Richard and Coco to the nippy (but well played) Mrs. Pennywise (Lauren Harrington) to the walking desk (Izzy Rogers), it was a cast to be remembered. As many of the actors are celebrating their last year here at Bronxville, I’m sure it will be. It may be about a town of urine, but what blooms out of it is quite remarkable.