What's Happening?
Drake University Theatre Arts is presenting "Urinetown," a Tony Award-winning satirical musical comedy, as its third and final production of the fall semester. The musical, with music and lyrics by Mark
Hollmann and book and lyrics by Greg Kotis, will be performed in the Performing Arts Hall inside Harmon Fine Arts Center. Directed and choreographed by Erin Degner, associate professor of theatre, with music direction by Shelley Cooper, also an associate professor, the show runs from November 19-22. "Urinetown" is set in a Gotham-like city facing a severe water shortage due to a 20-year drought, leading to a government-enforced ban on private toilets. Citizens are forced to use public amenities regulated by the greedy megacorporation "Urine Good Company," paying steep taxes for basic needs. Those who break the law are sent to the mysterious "Urinetown."
Why It's Important?
This production is important as it brings a critically acclaimed musical to the Drake University community and the wider Des Moines arts scene. "Urinetown" is known for its satirical commentary on significant social issues, including the legal system, capitalism, social irresponsibility, populism, environmental collapse, privatization of natural resources, bureaucracy, and municipal politics. By staging such a thought-provoking piece, Drake University Theatre Arts contributes to cultural discourse and encourages audiences to reflect on contemporary societal challenges. The involvement of faculty members Erin Degner and Shelley Cooper highlights the academic and artistic rigor within the university's theatre program, providing students with professional-level production experience and showcasing their talents to the public. The musical's themes resonate with current global concerns, making its presentation timely and relevant.
What's Next?
The performances of "Urinetown" are scheduled from November 19-22, with evening shows and afternoon matinees. Following this production, Drake University Theatre Arts will continue its season with spring 2027 performances, including "The Wolves" (Feb. 19–21), "Dog Sees God" (April 1–4), and "Bright Star" (April 29–May 2). Audiences interested in attending "Urinetown" can purchase tickets online or by calling the Drake University Fine Arts Box Office. The director, Erin Degner, hopes that audiences will not only enjoy the lighthearted musical and its dance numbers but also connect with the social justice issues it addresses, prompting further thought and discussion beyond the performance itself.
Beyond the Headlines
Beyond its entertainment value, "Urinetown" serves as a powerful artistic medium for social critique. The musical's satirical nature allows it to tackle complex and often uncomfortable topics with humor, making them more accessible to a broad audience. The themes of resource scarcity, corporate greed, and governmental control are particularly pertinent in an era marked by climate concerns and debates over public versus private ownership of essential services. The production's homage to classic musical theatre shows like "Les Misérables" and "West Side Story" through its choreography adds another layer of artistic depth, demonstrating how contemporary works can build upon and reinterpret theatrical traditions to address modern issues. This engagement with both artistic heritage and current events underscores the role of theatre as a dynamic and relevant cultural force.
