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Regional Reviews: Florida - West Coast Urinetown Also see Bill's review of Bubbling Brown Sugar
Director Kyle Ennis Turoff previously directed this show at The Golden Apple Dinner Theater in 2006. This production seems to almost duplicate that one, which was a reproduction of the Broadway production, copying sets, costumes and choreography. Dancing is a major element of this musical and Ms. Turoff has gotten outstanding results from her cast, perhaps some of the best dancing I have seen on a community theater stage. The cast list reads like a who's who of local community theater performers: Jason Ellis as Bobby Strong, Sarah Cassidy as Hope Cladwell, Alana Opie as Penelope Pennywise, Chris Caswell as Officer Lockstock, and Robert Turoff repeating his turn as Caldwell B. Cladwell. These folks have starred in many of the best productions in the past. Although I was less familiar with Ashley Jai as Little Sally, her biography credits identify her as a seasoned professional. She brings just the right blend of innocence and sassiness to her character. The entire supporting cast is excellent; each has a specific character to portray and most have moments in the spotlight. Rick Bogner, one of the area's finest music directors, is at keyboard 1, assisted by Christine Allen Bruno at keyboard 2, Bill Carmichael on woodwinds, Joe Wolfe on trombone, and Paul Henry on percussion. They make the musical element of the show bright and lively. When I think about all the musicals I have seen during the 2013-2014 theater season, Urinetown at The Players will be near the top of the list. Urinetown, through April 27, 2014, at The Players Theatre, 838 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL. Box Office (941) 365-2494. For more information visit www.theplayers.org. Cast (in order of appearance): Director/Choreographer: Kyle Ennis Turoff
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