By Katrina Dawn
The Empress Theatre in Magna, Utah has a terrific rendition of Urinetown. As the strange title implies, this show is a little unorthodox. This comedy satire by Greg Kotis first appeared at the New York Fringe Festival where it was then picked up and premiered Off-Broadway in 2001. The show was nominated for ten Tony Awards and won three. With such a show it is best to not have many expectations, this show is a satire; it’s weird, kooky and a ton of fun.
The Empress theatre itself has such a unique setup; the audience is on opposite sides of the stage creating a theatre in the round feel. The space is small but sound might be an issue if mics don’t properly pick up voices. However, the space is used fantastically. Becca Hall’s choreography is a great example being both fun and energetic while filling the small space and giving the audience on both sides a great show. Shout out to Director Glen Carpenter as well for his set designs using the space efficiently, the turning backdrop pieces are a genius choice.
There is no question that Little Sally (Sophia White) really pulls the show together with her headless doll/piggybank and roller-skates to the sophisticated and self-aware repartee with the narrator Officer Lockstock (Skyler Bluemel) who really captures the stage. Urinetown wouldn’t be complete without Hope Caldwell (Ashley North) and Bobby Strong (Isaac Carrillo). Ashley’s character choices for Hope are perfect right down to the high-pitched voice. Carillo is the embodiment of Bobby with his strong vocals and dimples. Everyone in the show is well cast and well portrayed. The physical comedy aspect is pulled off perfectly by Tanner Larsen (Officer Barrel) and the various “ghost-apparition/memories.”
Although Urinetown might not be the show you expect it to be it really is a good time. Director Carpenter successfully captures the obscure but comical spirit of this show in a whirlwind of laughs and broken social norms within theatre. It is funny enough for kids, but it is about, well, urination (kind of), so you may want to bring tweens and up.
Empress Theatre presents Urinetown book and lyrics by Greg Kotis, music and lyrics by Mark Hollmann
Empress Theatre 9104 2700 S Magna, Ut 84044
August 31-September 15, 2018, 7:30 PM
Tickets: $10–12
Contact: 801-347-7373
The Empress Theatre Facebook Page
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