CQU students take Mackay to Urinetown

Mackay audiences are in for a wickedly funny night out as CQUniversity students from the Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music (CQCM) stage the award-winning musical Urinetown, a sharp satire that blends comedy, romanceand social commentary.

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Guest directed by actor-director Ylaria Rogers, the musical is set in a drought-stricken town where a water shortage has made private toilets illegal. Instead, citizens must pay a powerful corporation, Urine Good Company, to use public amenities, while anyone who breaks the rules risks being banished to the mysterious and feared 'Urinetown'.  

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The story follows Bobby Strong, a worker at the town's poorest public amenity, who falls for Hope Cladwell, the daughter of the corporation's ruthless CEO. When another fee increase pushes the townspeople to breaking point, Bobby leads a rebellion with unexpected consequences.

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Winner of three Tony Awards, Urinetown is celebrated worldwide for its witty script, memorable score and playful send-up of musical theatre, drawing inspiration from classics including Les Misérables and West Side Story.  

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"It's a much deeper musical than the continuous laughter would suggest," Ms Rogers said.

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"It talks about water and money and what it is to live in drought, which in Australia is such a huge thing for us. This show brings generations together, whether you're a theatre-goer or not."  

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Audiences can catch Urinetown at the Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music, Ooralea, with matinee and evening performances from 23rd to 25th October. Tickets are on sale now at cqcm.sales.ticketsearch.com, with student, concession and family options available.

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