Urinetown
at Capistrano Valley High School

Reviewed on March 22, 2017

Natalie Patrick
Mission Viejo High School
Submitted for publication to OC Varsity Arts

Capo's "Urinetown" is a Privilege to See

With its extravagant characters telling a story of ridiculous circumstances, Capistrano Valley's production of "Urinetown the Musical" reminds audiences that even when people prove to be imperfect, love will always survive.

In a society that suffers from a twenty-year drought, citizens must use public amenities that are monopolized by a greedy company, making a basic human function, using the restroom, too expensive for the poor. Officer Lockstock, played by Maddy Cole, and the rest of the society's elite face a rebellion lead by the brave Bobby Strong, played by Nico Zani, and are shocked to discover that he has fallen in love with the daughter of their leader Caldwell B. Cladwell, played by Jonathan Campisano, the lovely Hope Cladwell, played by Sara Neal.

Nico Zani and Sara Neal are the charming Bobby Strong and Hope Cladwell. Neal's proper posture and sweet smile compliment Zani's suave smirk and bouncing step perfectly making the couple's dynamic interesting and adorable. The two utilize their strong voices to create beautiful harmonies in energetic numbers like "Follow Your Heart," and the pure, loving relationship shines brightly amongst the sadness and rebellion surrounding it.

A stand out with her perfect comedic timing, animated facial expressions and powerful voice is Maddy Cole as Officer Lockstock. Cole is the perfect narrator as she slips in and out of the action fluidly to help move the plot without missing a beat. The "Cop Song" is hilarious as she kicks, falls into the splits and has a delightful smile all while showcasing her powerful and brassy voice. Cole is also able to show a more serious side when she is protective of Little Sally, played by Jane Huish, and realizes the wrong she has done in the town.

The impeccable performers are highlighted by the impressive technical aspects. The costumes by Jasmine Kint, Tanner Hurley and Ellie Mezak distinguish the rich from the poor by having the rich in bright royal blue, marigold yellow and powder white while the poor are in burnt brown, mossy yellow and rusty orange. The frumpy, worn frocks of the poor contrast the sharp lines and solid colors of the rich to further separate the two throughout the show.

Capistrano Valley's production of "Urinetown the Musical" reminds audience of the importance of love despite the flaws of humanity with its remarkable technical aspect and stellar actors.

Natalie Patrick
Mission Viejo High School
Submitted for publication to OC Varsity Arts

Capo's "Urinetown" is a Privilege to See

With its extravagant characters telling a story of ridiculous circumstances, Capistrano Valley's production of "Urinetown the Musical" reminds audiences that even when people prove to be imperfect, love will always survive.

In a society that suffers from a twenty-year drought, citizens must use public amenities that are monopolized by a greedy company, making a basic human function, using the restroom, too expensive for the poor. Officer Lockstock, played by Maddy Cole, and the rest of the society's elite face a rebellion lead by the brave Bobby Strong, played by Nico Zani, and are shocked to discover that he has fallen in love with the daughter of their leader Caldwell B. Cladwell, played by Jonathan Campisano, the lovely Hope Cladwell, played by Sara Neal.

Nico Zani and Sara Neal are the charming Bobby Strong and Hope Cladwell. Neal's proper posture and sweet smile compliment Zani's suave smirk and bouncing step perfectly making the couple's dynamic interesting and adorable. The two utilize their strong voices to create beautiful harmonies in energetic numbers like "Follow Your Heart," and the pure, loving relationship shines brightly amongst the sadness and rebellion surrounding it.

A stand out with her perfect comedic timing, animated facial expressions and powerful voice is Maddy Cole as Officer Lockstock. Cole is the perfect narrator as she slips in and out of the action fluidly to help move the plot without missing a beat. The "Cop Song" is hilarious as she kicks, falls into the splits and has a delightful smile all while showcasing her powerful and brassy voice. Cole is also able to show a more serious side when she is protective of Little Sally, played by Jane Huish, and realizes the wrong she has done in the town.

The impeccable performers are highlighted by the impressive technical aspects. The costumes by Jasmine Kint, Tanner Hurley and Ellie Mezak distinguish the rich from the poor by having the rich in bright royal blue, marigold yellow and powder white while the poor are in burnt brown, mossy yellow and rusty orange. The frumpy, worn frocks of the poor contrast the sharp lines and solid colors of the rich to further separate the two throughout the show.

Capistrano Valley's production of "Urinetown the Musical" reminds audience of the importance of love despite the flaws of humanity with its remarkable technical aspect and stellar actors.

Alexander Trevisan
Tesoro High School
Submitted for publication to OC Varsity Arts

Capo's "Urinetown" is a royal flush

In a dystopian society where water is scarce and bathroom use is a privilege, the poor struggle to pay for their daily duties while the water companies bask in eccentric profits. When an uprising ensues, outrageous physical comedy and theatrical satire follow.

With a passionate revolutionary, an innocent ingénue, an overbearing boss, and a sassy cop, Capo brilliantly revisits the witty comedy of "Urinetown."

Mopping up the floors is Nico Zani as Bobby Strong, the janitor turned revolutionary. Zani starts with his head hung low, avoiding conflict amongst the poor. However, as the show progresses, he begins to gain confidence and raises his chest in defiance. In "Run, Freedom, Run," Zani excels as he belts out each high note with strength and determination. Leading the uprising, he finds his voice and stomps at the forefront of the mob.

Sara Neal is sweet and childlike as Hope Cladwell, Bobby's naïve love interest and daughter of a water baron. In "Follow Your Heart," Neal smoothly glides between her high mix and falsetto, relating the instructions of Bobby's heart. When she has to take over Urine Good Company, Neal breaks out a sassy belt in "I See A River," humorously waving her hand with each animated riff.

Jonathan Campisano embodies the domineering monopolist, Caldwell B. Cladwell. Campisano swaggers across stage, barking out orders and reprimanding underachieving employees. His clear, ringing voice shines in "Don't Be the Bunny" as he maintains impeccable comedic timing amongst his many intimidating threats.

As Officer Lockstock, Maddy Cole shines. Brashly bumbling across stage, Cole struts her stuff with authority as she confidently discusses the show with the audience. In "Cop Song," Cole hits each lyric with clear articulation and each beat with sharp hip-hop dance moves.

Costumes (designed by Jasmine Kint, Tanner Hurley, and Ellie Mezak) and makeup (designed by Morgyn Drummond) combine seamlessly to illustrate Urinetown's different social statuses. The Poor, decked out in murky greens and stained off-whites, are covered in dirt from head-to-toe. Fake dirt and charcoal powder serve dual purposes, dirtying the actors and acting as a contour. The Rich, meanwhile, are dressed in bright vintage pastels with hair quaffed to perfection. With suits and dresses neatly pressed, the composed work attire strongly contrasts the Poor's grimy rags.

With solid acting and stunning technical elements, Capo's cleanly executes the gritty satire, "Urinetown."

Alexander Trevisan
Tesoro High School
Submitted for publication to OC Varsity Arts

Capo's "Urinetown" is a royal flush

In a dystopian society where water is scarce and bathroom use is a privilege, the poor struggle to pay for their daily duties while the water companies bask in eccentric profits. When an uprising ensues, outrageous physical comedy and theatrical satire follow.

With a passionate revolutionary, an innocent ingénue, an overbearing boss, and a sassy cop, Capo brilliantly revisits the witty comedy of "Urinetown."

Mopping up the floors is Nico Zani as Bobby Strong, the janitor turned revolutionary. Zani starts with his head hung low, avoiding conflict amongst the poor. However, as the show progresses, he begins to gain confidence and raises his chest in defiance. In "Run, Freedom, Run," Zani excels as he belts out each high note with strength and determination. Leading the uprising, he finds his voice and stomps at the forefront of the mob.

Sara Neal is sweet and childlike as Hope Cladwell, Bobby's naïve love interest and daughter of a water baron. In "Follow Your Heart," Neal smoothly glides between her high mix and falsetto, relating the instructions of Bobby's heart. When she has to take over Urine Good Company, Neal breaks out a sassy belt in "I See A River," humorously waving her hand with each animated riff.

Jonathan Campisano embodies the domineering monopolist, Caldwell B. Cladwell. Campisano swaggers across stage, barking out orders and reprimanding underachieving employees. His clear, ringing voice shines in "Don't Be the Bunny" as he maintains impeccable comedic timing amongst his many intimidating threats.

As Officer Lockstock, Maddy Cole shines. Brashly bumbling across stage, Cole struts her stuff with authority as she confidently discusses the show with the audience. In "Cop Song," Cole hits each lyric with clear articulation and each beat with sharp hip-hop dance moves.

Costumes (designed by Jasmine Kint, Tanner Hurley, and Ellie Mezak) and makeup (designed by Morgyn Drummond) combine seamlessly to illustrate Urinetown's different social statuses. The Poor, decked out in murky greens and stained off-whites, are covered in dirt from head-to-toe. Fake dirt and charcoal powder serve dual purposes, dirtying the actors and acting as a contour. The Rich, meanwhile, are dressed in bright vintage pastels with hair quaffed to perfection. With suits and dresses neatly pressed, the composed work attire strongly contrasts the Poor's grimy rags.

With solid acting and stunning technical elements, Capo's cleanly executes the gritty satire, "Urinetown."

Tyler Ashman
St. Margaret’s Episcopal School
Submitted for publication to OC Cappies Facebook Page

Passion and Satire Abound in Capo's "Urinetown"

What happens when you mix a bunch of dancing police officers, greedy socialites, bumbling constables, and disgruntled Poor and seal off all public restrooms? Naturally, you stage a revolution, satirize capitalism, and—most important of all—celebrate the right to urinate free of charge. Thus comprises the bulk of Capistrano Valley High School's production of "Urinetown," the story of two young leaders dreaming of hope and joy for all. Their passion lead them to lead a revolt and defeat the oppressive corporate cronies.

Leading the cast is Sara Neal as Hope Cladwell. Neal embodies her naïve character as she wonders at the world around her with a high voice and wide eyes. This contrasts with Nico Zani as Bobby Strong, the revolutionary leader and Neal's lover. He sharply gesticulates and passionately shouts, rallying the city. Neal and Zani together show a more tender, loving side to their characters in the beautiful song "Follow Your Heart."

Jonathan Campisano further entertains as the authoritative Mr. Cladwell. He swaggers around the stage, suavely commanding the space, but grimaces in rage whenever challenged. His strong vocals shine through in songs like "Mr. Cladwell" and "Don't Be the Bunny."

The dueling ensembles—the Rich and the Poor—support the principal characters with strong commitment to their roles. The Rich, highlighted by the hilarious Mr. McQueen (Garrett Vallejo) and Senator Fipp (Cole Moore), stand up straight and speak clearly. In contrast, Little Becky Two Shoes (Olivia Wolff), Hot Blades Harry (Michael Lahaderne), and Penelope Pennywise (Jennifer Hardy) lead the energetic Poor with growling vocals and athletic dance.

Though all provide strong performances, Maddy Cole steals the show as the quirky Officer Lockstock. Narrating the production with a spring in her step, she opens her eyes wide and sharply freezes to add phenomenal comedy to her character.

Equally as impressive as the acting are the student designed technical elements. The set, designed by Emilie Meledy, highlights the socioeconomic divide with ramshackle brick for the poor and a sharp, white poster of Mr. Cladwell for the rich. Furthermore, the props, designed by Kacie Wachenheim, use golden plungers and bunny slippers to complement the story with an impressive attention to detail.

With superb satire, hysterical performances, and effective tech, the cast and crew of Capo's "Urinetown" don't fail to entertain from start to finish.

Tyler Ashman
St. Margaret’s Episcopal School
Submitted for publication to OC Cappies Facebook Page

Passion and Satire Abound in Capo's "Urinetown"

What happens when you mix a bunch of dancing police officers, greedy socialites, bumbling constables, and disgruntled Poor and seal off all public restrooms? Naturally, you stage a revolution, satirize capitalism, and—most important of all—celebrate the right to urinate free of charge. Thus comprises the bulk of Capistrano Valley High School's production of "Urinetown," the story of two young leaders dreaming of hope and joy for all. Their passion lead them to lead a revolt and defeat the oppressive corporate cronies.

Leading the cast is Sara Neal as Hope Cladwell. Neal embodies her naïve character as she wonders at the world around her with a high voice and wide eyes. This contrasts with Nico Zani as Bobby Strong, the revolutionary leader and Neal's lover. He sharply gesticulates and passionately shouts, rallying the city. Neal and Zani together show a more tender, loving side to their characters in the beautiful song "Follow Your Heart."

Jonathan Campisano further entertains as the authoritative Mr. Cladwell. He swaggers around the stage, suavely commanding the space, but grimaces in rage whenever challenged. His strong vocals shine through in songs like "Mr. Cladwell" and "Don't Be the Bunny."

The dueling ensembles—the Rich and the Poor—support the principal characters with strong commitment to their roles. The Rich, highlighted by the hilarious Mr. McQueen (Garrett Vallejo) and Senator Fipp (Cole Moore), stand up straight and speak clearly. In contrast, Little Becky Two Shoes (Olivia Wolff), Hot Blades Harry (Michael Lahaderne), and Penelope Pennywise (Jennifer Hardy) lead the energetic Poor with growling vocals and athletic dance.

Though all provide strong performances, Maddy Cole steals the show as the quirky Officer Lockstock. Narrating the production with a spring in her step, she opens her eyes wide and sharply freezes to add phenomenal comedy to her character.

Equally as impressive as the acting are the student designed technical elements. The set, designed by Emilie Meledy, highlights the socioeconomic divide with ramshackle brick for the poor and a sharp, white poster of Mr. Cladwell for the rich. Furthermore, the props, designed by Kacie Wachenheim, use golden plungers and bunny slippers to complement the story with an impressive attention to detail.

With superb satire, hysterical performances, and effective tech, the cast and crew of Capo's "Urinetown" don't fail to entertain from start to finish.