The Yale Dramatic Association’s highly anticipated production of “Urinetown” is set to premiere on March 6, 2024, at the University Theatre. This satirical musical explores themes of rebellion through a lens of humor, set in a city ravaged by drought where water is a commodity strictly controlled by a corrupt tycoon.
At the center of the narrative is Bobby Strong, a character portrayed by Jaden Nicita, who instigates a rebellion in response to the oppressive regulations governing public restrooms. The plot thickens as Bobby and his fellow citizens confront the absurdity of their situation, ultimately leading to a full-scale uprising centered around the city’s neglected public bathroom.
Nicita describes his role as both timely and deeply personal. “Bobby starts in total obedience to the world he’s stuck in. Come see him because, if you’re in a place where you feel stuck, his story shows how you can break out of the system,” he said. The character’s shift from compliance to rebellion resonates with audiences, inviting them to reflect on their own circumstances.
Collaboration and Creativity Drive the Production
Director Ashley Rodbro expressed enthusiasm for Nicita’s performance, emphasizing the character’s significance in the musical. “Bobby Strong is in many ways the heartbeat of the show, and Jaden brings such a sense of complexity, earnestness, and optimism as a performer,” Rodbro stated. Nicita hopes the audience not only enjoys the humor but also leaves contemplating the broader messages woven into the narrative.
One musical number that encapsulates this duality is “Follow Your Heart.” Nicita describes it as the emotional core of the production, stating, “It’s cheesy, but it really is the heart of the show. Sometimes the world makes no sense, and you have to do what you think is right anyway.”
The production team, led by stage manager Elizabeth Simmons, has orchestrated efforts involving over 60 crew members to ensure a seamless presentation. Simmons acknowledged the challenges of balancing the show’s fun elements with its serious themes, including climate change and authoritarianism. “It balances humor with moments that hit harder,” she noted.
Choreographer Sadie Pohl highlighted the significance of movement in conveying social commentary. “We’re trying to use movement to reference status,” she explained. The choreography differentiates between the rich and the poor, with office workers portrayed with rigid, unified movements, contrasting sharply with the more dynamic and expressive movements of the impoverished characters.
A Community Effort
The collaborative spirit extends beyond the stage, as producer Dhruv Bhalla emphasized the positive energy within the rehearsal environment. “The energy in the rehearsal room has been incredible — from the cast to the assistant directors to this huge stage management team working so well together,” he said. Bhalla also expressed pride in mentoring first-year students who are eager to engage with various aspects of production, from lighting to producing.
“Urinetown” is more than just a comedy; it serves as an imaginative commentary on capitalism and oppression, crafted through a blend of creativity, collaboration, and technical expertise. “It’s really funny. It’s really silly. It’s filled with the love of so many people,” Bhalla concluded. “And even with the silliness, it’s still meaningful.”
The University Theatre is located at 222 York St., and the opening night promises to be a blend of laughter and thought-provoking themes, inviting audiences to reflect on their own realities through the lens of humor and rebellion.
