Combining the perfect amount of comedy, politics and pure talent, the Creighton University Department of Fine and Preforming Arts does not disappoint with their spring main stage musical.
βUrinetown,β tells the story of a future where private toilets have been outlawed due to a unfortunate drought. The βpublic amenitiesβ are property of mega-corporation Urine Good Company, owned by Cladwell B. Cladwell, played by Arts & Sciences freshman Kirk Hauck. The poor must now pay to use these facilities despite the rising prices and their lack of funds.
When Caldwellβs starry-eyed daughter, Hope, Arts & Sciences junior Ariel Talacko, comes home from college to work for her father she finds herself falling in love with common-folk revolutionary Bobby Strong, Arts & Sciences freshman Ephriam Harnsberger. From their first encounter, the stage is set for a showdown between the oppressed poor and Caldwellβs corporation.
The musical was written prior to the terrorist attacks of 9/11, and was the first show to open on Broadway after the devastation. Its focus on oppression was made more prominent during such
controversial times.
The musical also consist of several other musical theatre references from popular shows such as βChicago,β βWest Side Storyβ and
βLes Miserables.β
The brilliant cast impresses with their amazing performace.Β Standout nursing freshman Cristine Tancredi and Arts & Sciences senior Patrick Kilcoyne engage the crowd by traveling throughout the audience as Little Sally and Officer Lockstock.
βMy favorite trait of Sallyβs character is her relationship with Officer Lockstock,β Tancredi said. βTheir dialogues are a mockery of conventional theater and bring a hilarious element to the show. It has been challenging but very rewarding and Iβm so grateful for the opportunity to perform.β
The intricate dance numbers show off the talent of choreographer, Arts & Sciences senior Joe Wright. While the production staff impresses with the complex scenery and costumes that suit the musical perfectly.
Assistant director and member of the production staff Arts & Sciences senior Carli Haney was thankful to have faculty mentors that assisted the staff through the process of the show.
βIt gave me a real feel for what a true theatre experience is like,β Haney said. βWe get to practice our skills and apply our knowledge beyond the pages.β