Christopher Spencer, an undeclared postgraduate of music and education, plays Bobby Strong, one of the lead roles in University of Massachusetts Boston’s upcoming production of “Urinetown.” He describes Bobby as “a passionate character who follows his heart and fights for himself and for the freedoms of the people in his land.”
Spencer remarked that he first heard about the musical through, “friends, who are also passionate about acting in the Performing Arts Department.” He also stated, “I knew there would be a musical, but I didn’t know which one, and then I found out it was going to be “Urinetown,” which is pretty exciting.”
Other productions that Spencer has been proud to participate in include “House of Blue Leaves,” “All In The Timing,” “Big Love,” and “Spelling Bee.” He stated, “I’ve been participating in theatre throughout my whole life. I find that it’s very significant to me.”
He commented that when he joined the production, it was his fifth show at UMass Boston. “The students, professors, and directors are just simply fantastic. Overall, I just have so much fun creating memories together. I joined “Urinetown” specifically because it’s funny, it has great music, and it’s a part that I’ve always wanted to play. I’m really lucky that I received the part of Bobby,” said Spencer. 
Pertaining to the auditions, Spencer said, “I’m used to these kinds of things by now. In our audition, we had to prepare a song and a short monologue, and then if we were called back, we had to do a dance audition. As for my expectations, I predicted that there would be singing involved in the audition and I was right.”
He added, “It’s kind of a difficult role vocally, in which I have to sustain high notes. Not only that, but there are also difficult dance moves to memorize and execute. Another challenge that I have is trying to be stylized with my acting and not be too dramatic, so I can be genuine. Basically, I need to find a right balance.” 
Spender highly recommends that everyone go see “Urinetown,” which premiers Wednesday, Dec. 4 at 7 p.m. in the McCormack Theatre.