Currently enjoying a successful limited run at London’s St. James Theatre, URINETOWN, the American cult musical shipped from Boradway is full of surprises. One thing that is NOT a surprise is, of course, the toilet humor and all of the associated jokes, puns, language and in fact, sometimes sounds (not smells, thankfully!) that go along with a musical with such a title. And, yes, it is a musical. A thought that is almost humorous in itself.
With a title like URINETOWN and a tag line “A Drop of Hope can Change the World,” one has to doubt the seriousness with which this show has been constructed. The truth, however, is that the show is quite impressive. As I settled into my seat while studying the construction of Soutra Gilmour’s dark, dingy and immaculately complex set design, I realized that if nothing else, I was in for a visual and technical treat. Gilmour’s display of talent here far exceeded some of the designs that I’ve seen in the West End or on Broadway in recent years.
Combine strong technical prowess with some amazing direction and talent onstage, and any way you look at it, you have a great show. Director Jamie Lloyd, London theatre heavyweight has assembled a cast of talent no short of any gargantuan West End production.
As Bobby Strong, Richard Fleeshman, West End and Broadway veteran and pretty boy, far exceeds expectations. He is the hero who leads the citizens as they protest the corporate giant, UGC, the regulators of all facilities and architects of corruption. And as big voices go, you can’t do better than Jenna Russell. Playing Bobby’s boss, she belts out tunes like “It’s a Privilege to Pee” with such mastery you would think you’re at a production of Les Miz.
In fact, an overall comparison that might otherwise be considered sacrilegious to some theatre pop culture aficionados, you could say URINETOWN has many markings of Les Miz (at a superficial level, of course). Think Javert chasing Valjean through the sewers of Paris. Nonetheless, URINETOWN holds its own against the some of the best.
While odd, gross and at times downright ridiculous, URINETOWN does attempt to make some obvious environmental and political statements. And regardless of your opinions, you can still enjoy this musical. Regardless of the depth, or at times lack thereof, URINETOWN works well and brings all of its production elements together flawlessly. So go (no pun intended) and have a good laugh. “Urine” good company. Ugh. I’m sure that’s not the first time that line has been used in relation to this show, but it seemed somehow obligatory.
URINETOWN is currently running at London’s St. James Theater with a strictly limited run through 3 May. For tickets and more info, visit www.stjamestheatre.co.uk.