'Urinetown' Kicks Off Elm Street's 8th Season in Woodstock

WOODSTOCK, GA -- On Friday, Elm Street Arts will kick off its eighth season with "Urinetown: The Musical."

This playful, incredibly satirical show is set in the not-too-distant future, when water has become a scarce commodity following a 20-year drought.

The situation has become so dire that the government has enforced a ban on private toilets. Citizens must use public amenities regulated by Urine Good Company, a corrupt and malevolent corporation which reaps great profits by charging admission for one of humanity’s most basic needs.

This places an extraordinary burden on the population, especially those at the lower end of the socioeconomic scale. Finally, a hero emerges in the person of Bobby Strong to lead the people in demanding change.

Because hydration and proper elimination are important for our health, the Presenting Partner for Urinetown is Georgia Urology.

“We are so relieved (pun intended) to have this great partnership with Georgia Urology,” said Christopher Brazelton, Elm Street's executive director. "They are contributing to the playfulness of this production by producing public service announcements and educational pieces about urological health."

The show is directed by Andrew Berardi, director of the 2015 Flat Stanley production. This is Berardi’s second involvement with this show. His first role in 'Urinetown' took place in 2006 when he was part of Kennesaw State University's production.

"This show is especially relevant at this time in our history," Berardi added. "'Urinetown' is not your typical musical. It tells a story that mirrors many of the issues that our world is facing now. And besides that, the music is catchy and fun. The audience will be immersed in the story as soon as they enter the theater. We have a few surprises in store."

Brazelton goes on to say the show is "very timely," as it places a comedic, satirical spin on bureaucracy, corporate greed and populist politics.

"What’s nice about this show is that in a world where everything is politically charged and polarized, this show actually just allows us to come together and laugh," he added.

Performances for the show will be held at 7:30 p.m. Friday, 8 p.m. Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 12-28 at the Chambers at City Center.

Tickets are $13.50 in advance and $18 at the door. The show is expected to sell out, so patrons are advised to purchase tickets as early as possible.

Ticket information and additional details are available online.

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Photo: A few characters of Urinetown the musical. Pictured from left to right are Ethan Everett, Zac Roe, Taylor Priday{floor}, Lauren Bowling, Evan McLean, Kip Henderson and Jillian Melko. Credit: Elm Street Arts