Urinetown : a subversive musical showcased in Châteauguay

A Broadway musical will be showcased at Salle Jean-Pierre-Houde, in Châteauguay, from August 16th to 20th. Urinetown: The Musical’s production resulted from the collaboration between two Châteauguay and Kahnawake theater companies.

The story takes place in a made-up city where citizens must pay to urinate following a water shortage. Spectators can expect an evening of political criticism, filled with laughter and live music, Kirk Elsmore, the play’s co-director said.

“It’s a comedic musical that talks about capitalism, greed, corrupt politicians, Elsmore said. It’s very relevant in terms of its story and topic to what’s going on around the world, in our society, especially with the problems that our communities are dealing with.”

The cast is composed of 21 volunteer actors from Châteauguay, Kahnawake and the West Island.

The play was produced by the Châteauguay’ Starcatcher Productions theatre company, founded by Elsmore, and by Kahnawake's Turtle Island Theatre.

The performances will be held at 7:30 p.m and only in English. An additional presentation has been added on Saturday August 20th at 2:30 p.m. Admission is based on donations, so spectators can pay as they wish.

Turtle Island Theater

Turtle Island Theater is a theater program founded in Kahnawake in 1993, its CEO and Urinetown’s co-director Kyle Zachary explained.

The program had been on hiatus for 10 years after losing its grant and building. Zachary said a campaign to revive the program is underway, which includes new shows.

In April, the federal government announced $16 million to build a cultural centre, a museum and a theater in Kahnawake. The Turtle Island Theater company will be housed in the cultural center.

For more information on Urinetown, visit the event's website.