"This is Urinetown"

It has been one week since the Urinetown opened on the stage of GW's Dorothy Betts Marvin Theatre.

The cast of Urinetown perform the Act I Finale.

What a performance it was!  One local reviewer said seeing this "hysterical" production was "one of the most enjoyable nights I have spent in the theatre this year!"

The reviewer, Joel Markowitz of the online review website DC Metro Theater Arts, complimented director Muriel Von Villas for "nicely [balancing] the funny with the serious and scary."  The show, after all, is not just a comedic farce. It also has an environmental and social message, with political themes ranging from human rights to environmentalism.

Markowitz said the show was cast perfectly.

Kevin Frey as Officer Lockstock.

Senior Kevin Frey (pictured above) was lauded as "marvelous" for his performance as the narrator, Officer Lockstock.  Lockstock has the fun chance to be both part of the show and break the "fourth-wall" and talk to the audience, guiding them while also being part of the action.

Andy Lieberman, center, as Bobby Strong.

Seniors Andy Lieberman (above) and Lindsay Martin (below), who played hero Bobby Strong and heroine Hope Cladwell, respectively, were applauded for their vocal performance.  They were called a "cute couple."  

Bobby ultimately starts the revolution that leaves the community in upheaval and chaos.

Lindsay Martin as Hope Cladwell.

Junior Annie Ottati, who played the 8-year-old Little Sally, was called a "scene stealer."  Markowitz said she (and her beat-up, ragged teddy bear) stole the show every time she opened her mouth.  Little Sally often commented on show events in her conversations with Officer Lockstock.

Annie Ottati as Little Sally.

Markowitz said that Shira Hereld had the right "toughness" as public-bathroom operator Penelope Pennywise.  Bobby's revolution ultimately starts at Penny's public bathroom.  Throughout the show, Penny undergoes a transformation as she begins to see and embrace Bobby's revolutionary ideas.

Shira Hereld as Penelope Pennywise.

Check out another review, this one from the Maryland Theater Guide, here.

Below are some of the best photos from the show!  Thanks to all who came out to support this production!

Check out more photos from the production here.

Urinetown was a joint production of the GW Department of Music and the Department of Theater and Dance.  It was directed by Muriel von Villas with music direction by Patrick O'Donnell.  The show ran Oct. 30 through Nov. 2 in the Dorothy Betts Marvin Theatre.