Auditions for the musical “Urinetown” at Cosumnes River College have concluded, and the actors are now in rehearsals for the show under the direction of theater Professor Ryan Perez Adame.
“Urinetown” is a satirical musical about the legal system, capitalism and social irresponsibility, created by American playwright Greg Kotis.
The setting is a world with a water shortage, leading to severe rationing and the banning of restroom usage, resulting in a system where everyone now must pay to use the restroom.
“We picked this show because it’s a love letter to musical theater and is a quilt of so many theatrical styles all in one,” Adame said.
The musical implements Brechtian theater, where the actors step out of the play and speak to the audience directly, to get them to think critically and reflect socially.
“The most important thing about ‘Urinetown’ is that it is a pretty scathing commentary about capitalism and corporate greed,” Adame said.
As a satire, “Urinetown” uses comedy as a way to bring light to these big topics within the show itself.
“The sheer boldness that this play will offer the audience, alongside its amazing music, will definitely catch their attention,” said Jianna Eugenio, a 27-year-old music major.
In rehearsals, the actors practiced getting into their respective roles and learning the music, which was originally composed by Mark Hollmann, a former composer.
Graham Sobelman, the music and vocal director of the CRC production, oversaw the cast learning the music and lyrics.
During rehearsals, the type of music they were performing was a solo with the other actors acting as background. The main singer was standing and giving theatrics while singing the main parts.
Purijon Bickham, a 19-year-old theater major, said, “I like to put some of myself into my roles just to make it more personal and feel that connection.”
To make sure everything flows smoothly during rehearsals, staging, design and communication are handled by the stage directors.
“The most challenging part is remembering the little details of all the jobs you have to do while being a stage manager,” said Macie Utile, an 18-year-old environmental studies major.
Stage managers are in charge of giving information out to the cast and other jobs, such as glow-taping the stage so that people don’t trip or fall.
Performances will begin Nov. 8 and continue through Nov. 24 in the Black Box Theater. Get tickets here.
“I can promise the audience they’re going to laugh no matter whether they want to or not,” Adame said. “You’re going to question the name, and I can guarantee you know nothing about this show if you’ve never heard the name.”