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Little by little, recognizable Broadway characters sauntered onto the stage. Classic favorites like Annie, Mary Poppins and Sweeney Todd graced the stage with their distinct personas and introduced American Heritage's unique production of Urinetown.

Set in a town just like yours, where it's considered a "privilege to pee," Urinetown with music and lyrics by Mark Hollman and book and lyrics by Greg Kotis, is a satirical poke at both classic Broadway musicals and society. The plot centers on Hope Cladwell, the innocent heroine who wishes to rid her town of the harsh bathroom laws they enforce. Having to pay to urinate due to the shortage of water, Hope finds that through listening to her heart, all problems in the world could be resolved. Hope also finds love in her heart for Bobby Strong, a poor local, and together they start a revolution against the town's authority.

Perhaps the most unique aspect of the production was the concept of creating alter egos for each written role. Each character was doubled with a Broadway leading man or woman, spoofing the show even more so than originally written. Though ingeniously creative and tremendously entertaining, character development at times appeared to be both complicated and lost in its execution. While some cast members embodied both written role and Broadway character, many portrayed one or the other, and sometimes neither. This complication at times hindered the original plot and caused the underlying message to get lost.

As Little Sally, one of the story's narrators, Chloe Golden stole the show. Her genuine innocence, adolescence and comedic timing were executed from start to finish, making for a particularly memorable performance.

As the show's principal narrator and town officer, David Berry portrayed Officer Lockstock with poise and tremendous comic flair. He showcased this in Cop Song, and in his witty narrations of the satirical plot.

Charles South portrayed the leading man Bobby Strong, with constant energy, charisma and commanding stage presence. His acting was strong and accompanied by impressive vocals. He shone in his rendition of Run Freedom Run, and was strongly supported by the ensemble and their complex, melodic harmonies. Opposite South was Brielle Rassler as the stereotypical "Broadway ingénue." She showcased her unwavering vocals in songs such as Follow Your Heart, and I See a River.

Noteworthy performances also include Nicole Kinzel as Pennywise, Christian Thompson as both Officer Barrel and Hot Blades Harry, and Max Mellman as Caldwell B. Cladwell. The stellar threesome enriched the production and accentuated each scene with undeniable dedication and refreshing amounts of energy.

Technical aspects of Urinetown were admirable, though hindered by anticipated scene transitions and minor sound malfunctions. Despite a few scenic complications, the coordinated stage crew proved their professionalism, as they overcame obstacles with the enormous, multifaceted set.

Through impressive vocals, energy and originality, the obviously talented cast and crew of American Heritage's Urinetown proved that while peeing may be a privilege, being able to plunge into their creative production was one too.