Calabasas Theater presented a production of Urinetown in the PAEC last week, from Tuesday to Saturday. The musical starred Jesse Brasler as Officer Lockstock, Noah Grismer as Bobby Strong, and several other students in major roles in either the Black or Gold cast. 

The plot revolves around a dystopian reality in which people have to pay money to use the bathroom. Grimser’s character, Bobby Strong, resists the oppressive government and creates a rebellion after his father is taken away and his mother, Old Ma Strong, is nearly taken as well. He and Hope—played by Sean Taylor in the gold cast and Ruby Mankowski in the black cast—attempt to overthrow the regime that is taking away their… free bathroom privileges.

Urinetown is a satirical comedy that critiques class inequality and capitalism. It has a lot to say about narrative, as well as the stereotypical roles many people play. It does an exceptional job of subverting expectations, taking characters into roles you would never expect them to have.

The nice-guy hero who just wants everyone to be happy? He dies. The reformed daughter of the villain who ends up becoming the main leader of the rebellion? She ends up becoming just like her rich, terrible father. The cruel woman? She’s a loving mother. The evil capitalist? He… remains an evil capitalist.

It plays with the viewer’s expectations in a successful way. Paired with incredible music, fantastic performances, and a stunning set, the whole show really came to life on the PAEC stage.

“I’m extremely grateful for the experience and everyone taking part in Urinetown,” said Dolly O’Connell, who played Old “Ma” Strong in the gold cast.

The cast had been working on Urinetown and making it come to life for around three months, beginning midway through December. The experience involved dance workshops, singing lessons, and rigorous rehearsal schedules. 

“I had the time of my life working on Urinetown,” said Tyler Bailin, a part of the ensemble. “I think we’ve made something really special.”

The actors weren’t the only key part of the show, though. The crew played a major role in creating the atmosphere in the musical. With people working on lights, sets, props, costumes, and everything backstage. 

“It was really enjoyable to be able to manage my team to success,” said Jackson Bacon, the stage manager for the Gold Cast. “It went splendidly.” 

The audience loved it as well. The PAEC was filled with laughs and cheers and ravenous applause. And, on some nights, it nearly sold out. 

“They were really good at incorporating comedic relief,” said Jade Bassis, a sophomore at Calabasas High. “I was laughing when I shouldn’t have been laughing.”