The Department of Performing Arts at the University of Massachusetts Boston will be putting on a musical production of “Urinetown” next month. Five supporting actors took time to answer questions regarding the upcoming play and their roles. Tickets will be available at the door and online at umb.edu/urinetown.
Name: Jung Eun Kang
Major: Theater Arts
Role: UGC Secretary and Cop
According to Kang, she wanted to be a part of the musical in order to gain experience and learn more about theater arts. She personally loves the Broadway play. On her connection to her character, Proud, she says, “Proud is one of my characters, and I am proud of myself that I am on the stage!”
Name: Mariah Silva
Major: English and Theater Arts
Role: Josephine Strong
Silva says, “I’ve always been in love with theater and participated in musicals and comedic plays throughout high school. I wanted to see what the experience was like in a college production and I finally have free time to dedicate to a show.” On her personal connection to her character, Josephine Strong, she says, “I’m like my character because I always ask questions or make comments at the wrong time.” She added, “I’m so excited to be a part of this play!”
Name: Helena Berbano
Major: M.S. Public Affairs
Role: Little Sally
“As a Master’s student and full-time worker, I needed a de-stressor,” said Berbano on her reasons for joining the production. “I figured that singing about public urination and defecation would be a great way to do that! In all seriousness though, I wanted to get back on theatre wagon; I haven’t been in a musical since 2010 (“Into the Woods,” Jack’s Mom).” On playing the role of Little Sally, she says, “Little Sally is fun to play because she is the voice of reason throughout the show … and she has some pretty sick overalls!”
Name: Rebeca Perea
Major: Music
Role: Ms. McQueen and Cop
Currently in her first semester at UMass Boston, Perea wanted to be a part of the “Urinetown” production because performing seemed like so much fun. She said, “I love that my character is the second-hand woman to the bad guy. The cop outfit is extremely cool as well! I’m so privileged to be working with such talented individuals; the show is fantastic!”
Name: Megan Jepsen
Major: Theatre Arts
Role: Poor Rebel
“This is my first production — and semester — at UMass Boston,” said Jepsen. “I thought it would be a good way to meet people and get acquainted with the theatre program. Carrie Ann [the director] has been really great with letting us develop our characters and experiment.” On how she feels about her character, Poor Rebel, she said, “I think my character is a lot more of a risk taker than I am, but also we’re both really laid back.”