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A 20-year drought has made bathrooms a battleground in Westfield Summer Stage’s production of “Urinetown: The Musical,” a satirical comedy about corporate power, government corruption and a rebellion over the right to pee.
The show marks the 20th anniversary of Westfield Summer Stage and brings together about 50 cast and crew members from schools across the area. Performances are scheduled for 7 p.m. July 11-12 and July 18-19, with a 2 p.m. matinee July 13. Tickets cost $17 at the door or $15 online.
In the musical’s drought-stricken world, residents must pay to use public restrooms and are forbidden from relieving themselves elsewhere. The arrangement fuels a class struggle between impoverished residents and the Urine Good Company, or UGC, which controls the city’s bathrooms.
Director Michael Viola, South Lakes High School’s theater director, said the cast is embracing the story’s absurdity without losing sight of its commentary on government, corporate influence and the effects of power.
The production also spoofs musical theater itself, particularly stories about revolutions and uprisings. It draws inspiration from shows including “Les Miserables” and “West Side Story,” with references to as many as 25 musicals appearing in the blocking, choreography, costumes and characterizations.
Although “Urinetown” first appeared on Broadway about 25 years ago, Viola said its themes remain relevant. Beneath the political satire and bathroom humor, the show also delivers a love story, emotional turns and large song-and-dance numbers.
A multilevel, industrial-style set shifts among a public restroom entrance, a corporate boardroom, street corners and alleyways. Costumes make the class divide immediately visible: Wealthy characters wear vivid jewel tones, while poor residents appear in worn clothing inspired by musicals such as “Les Miserables,” “Annie,” “Footloose” and “A Christmas Carol.”
Westfield High School 2025 graduate Lilli McNerney plays Penny Pennywise, the tough manager of the city’s shabbiest public toilet. Penny follows UGC’s orders even when she disagrees with them and employs Bobby Strong, played by Jake Deering.
Bobby ultimately leads the uprising, opening the restroom to residents for free and triggering a confrontation with police.
McNerney describes Penny as blunt, rough and determined to survive. Although Penny holds a more privileged position, her behavior reflects the hard world around her. Her memories of life before and during the drought also give her a different perspective on the city’s crisis.
McNerney’s favorite song is “Privilege to Pee,” a demanding number that lays out the central conflict. She said the musical combines political relevance with comedy, loss, love and plenty of potty humor.
Fairfax High School rising senior James Wise portrays Sen. Fipp, a corrupt politician paid by UGC owner Caldwell B. Cladwell. Wise plays Fipp as an uptight villain who looks down on poor residents.
His favorite number, “Why Did I Listen to That Man?,” comes when Fipp recognizes Cladwell’s corruption and denounces him as a crook.
Cladwell’s daughter, Hope, faces another conflict at the center of the story: loyalty to her father versus her growing love for Bobby Strong.
Rising Centreville High School senior Jillian Couch performs in the ensemble of poor residents. Her character is among those struggling to afford food and rent because so much of their money goes toward restroom access.
Couch highlighted “Snuff That Girl” as one of the production’s strongest dance numbers, pairing high-energy choreography with dark stakes. She said the ensemble also interacts with audience members during portions of the show.
Skyler Lee, a rising eighth-grader at Rocky Run Middle School, plays Little Sally. The curious young character helps narrate the musical alongside Officer Lockstock and supports the rebellion while frequently breaking the fourth wall.
Lee said the role requires balancing direct audience interaction with participation in the story. Her favorite number is “Cop Song,” performed by Henry Belvins and Andrew Beasley as Officers Barrel and Lockstock. She praised its quick tempo, dancing and dark humor.
Viola said the production’s exaggerated characters and deliberately corny theatrical style make the unfamiliar title accessible. Experienced theatergoers may catch the many references woven through the show, but he expects its comedy, music and energetic cast to appeal to audiences whether they recognize the allusions or not.