Although the name of the School of Theater and Dance’s musical production “Urinetown” may keep some students from purchasing a ticket, the entertaining show sold out for its Nov. 3 performance.

The musical is hilarious and consistently commands laughter from the audience, even in normally depressing situations.

It depicts a future in which a relentless drought is making the earth’s water scarce. Due to such harsh conditions, public restrooms are no longer free, and to keep the rare ground water pure, officer Lockstock strictly enforces the law that relieving oneself outdoors is illegal.

Rick Coffey’s performance as officer Lockstock is a riot, and he even raps. His character is all man; however, all of his strict and harsh tones have the ability to portray a deeper and softer side. My favorite angle of his story is the tension with his partner, officer Barrel, who humorously hints toward his secret love for Lockstock throughout the performance.

The hero, Bobby Strong, is an attendant at Amenity No. 9 who follows his heart to once again allow his under-privileged townspeople the right to do their business at no charge. After having to pay for the “privilege to pee,” the townspeople are extremely impoverished and scrounge for the fee required.

Early in, Strong is forced to make a decision between losing his job or allowing his father to go for free. Strong decides to keep his job, resulting in his father relieving himself in public. Officer Lockstock immediately detains Strong’s father and sends him to the mysterious “Urinetown” as punishment. In regret of this decision, Strong leads his townspeople to rise up in opposition of the fees.

Katie Waddles plays Hope Cladwell, the love interest of Strong and also the daughter of Caldwell B. Cladwell, the executive imposing the fees at all of the amenities. Her philosophy of following her heart leads Strong to realize what is right. Waddles plays her character with utmost energy and has an amazing voice to channel it. Speaking of the music, the songs are wonderfully executed and will fill your bladders – I mean hearts – with warmth.

The performances in “Urinetown” are fantastic, and the show itself has more twists and turns than your favorite TV show’s season finale. It will keep you laughing and at the edge of your seat to find out if the revolution will succeed. More than just a musical, the show includes underlying messages of hope, love and freedom for all.

Contact all correspondent Robert Checkal at [email protected].