THEATRE RESPONSE: URINETOWN

I am a huge fan of this show - I love the recording and last year I had the chance to work with the original Officer Barrel - the brilliant Daniel Marcus. So needless to say I am a fan of this show. There are actually a few productions of Urinetown opening relatively close to each other and the first one to offer it is Foothill Music Theatre.

I had what I can only describe as a "great theatrical experience" last night. It was truly one of the best productions I have ever seen. Jay Manley has assembled an amazing cast lead by Robbie Brewer, Linda Piccone, Mike Padilla, Jessican Lynn-Carol & Alicia Teeter. The entire company was outstanding, the musical staging & lighting, costumes, set - the orchestra led by my hero Brandon Adams - all stunning.

I also saw one of the best performances I have ever had the pleasure to witness. David Curley as Officer Longstock was a revelation. I met David for the first time at a party recently. I knew he was an actor (though I had never seen him perform before) and he knew who I was because he saw me in Sweeney Todd. He & his partner were lovely and I said that I was looking forward to seeing him in Urinetown. The man gives a fearless, brilliant & scene-stealing performance. It takes a lot to impress me and Mr. Curley impressed the hell out of me last night.

It was great to see all the actors shine with this show and I knew almost all the cast which was great. There were no programs so I can't name every amazing person of the flawless ensemble which included Ruth E. Millins, Doug Brees, Steve Completo, Kendra Holt (all from Sweeney) and Dave Mialovich (whom was in Anything Goes with me at BBBAY.) There was this amazing lady in the ensemble who played a pregnant lady in the show. In my opinion -she stole the show. I don't know her name but she was fabulous! I also had a wonderful time with my friends Sean Patrick O'Connor & Hilary Little and seeing other Sweeney cast members in the audience.

A truly great night in the theatre. Do yourself a favor get tickets to Urinetown before it's too late!

Have a great four-day weekend!

=+)

M.