Dec 2008

Dear Sunset Families,

I am pleased to announce that your musical this year is Urinetown. If your initial response is anything like mine, I am sure that you are asking what is going on at Sunset. Once I recovered from my own disbelief, I took the time to review the script and understand the plot. I discovered that this award winning, Broadway musical is much more than the title may reveal. It is about a world with a scarcity of water and the corporation that is brought in to manage it. Of course, when market forces are allowed to manage a scarce natural resource, corporate greed seems to come into play. Consequently, everyone is charged a fee to use the restroom. Thus, the title of Urinetown.

What I am particularly impressed with is the power that this musical is having across our campus. Teachers and students are embracing the concept of conservation of natural resources, and they are finding ways to connect course content and activities to the musical’s themes. Aside from the title, I do believe that you will find very little that is objectionable. I know for myself that I intend to bring my own middle school-aged children to see the projection. Hopefully, you will join us.

I hope that you and your family have a wonderful, fun and safe winter break. Hopefully, you will have the opportunity to spend it with family and friends. Happy Holidays!

Todd