Thursday, March 28, 2024
46.0°F

'Urinetown' coming to Charter Academy stage

by Isabel Bartosh Contributing Writer
| March 2, 2018 12:00 AM

Coeur d’Alene Charter Academy will perform the Tony Award-winning musical “Urinetown.”

Show dates are March 9, 10, 15, 16 and 17, with all performances beginning at 7 p.m.

This modern comedic musical satirizes the legal system, socialism, capitalism, and every “ism” in between. In a drought-stricken town where it’s a “privilege to pee,” the aggravated poor finally revolt against the oppressive wealthy elite. Led by dashing young idealist Bobby Strong, the rebels attempt to reclaim their amenities, their freedom, and their town.

“I chose this play because I am teaching my first Brechtian unit to my high school drama students,” said director Dana Fleming. “‘Urinetown’ is a terrific example of Brecht’s style.”

Playwright Greg Kotis was inspired to create “Urinetown” after using a pay-to-pee toilet in Europe. The idea of governments requiring their citizens to pay for the privilege to pee struck a chord within Kotis. He created the script and teamed with composer Mark Hollman to write the lyrics. “Urinetown” is reminiscent of Brecht’s “Three Penny Opera,” “Fiddler on the Roof” and “Les Misérables” with a few jazzy shades of “West Side Story” spiced in.

Performances will be held at Charter Academy High School MPR, 4904 N. Duncan Drive. Tickets are $10 general admission and $5 for students.

•••

Isabel Bartosh is a junior at Coeur d’Alene Charter Academy.