Compiled here is a selection of quotes from the play that I feel capture the essence and themes:
[ENSEMBLE.] It’s the oldest story, with masses oppressed!
[LOCKSTOCK.] Sometimes— in a musical— it’s better to focus on one big thing rather than a lot of little things. The audience tends to be much happier that way. And it’s easier to write.
[CLADWELL.] Life is a beating! The sooner you know that, the better.
[HOPE.] Then life is wrong.
[CLADWELL.] Embrace it. I have.
[HOPE.] Life should be beautiful.
[HOPE.] Look deep into his heart and try to understand what made it pound so angrily.
[CLADWELL.] What of tomorrow, Mister Strong?
[BOBBY.] But what of today?!
[BOBBY.] This riot’s our child!
[LITTLE SALLY.] And besides, the way I see it, I’m already in Urinetown. We all are. Even you.
[CLADWELL.] Riots broke out like there was no tomorrow, for there was no tomorrow, but there is always a tomorrow if you’re tough enough to cling to it.
[LITTLE SALLY.] Tell all the people. Tell them the time is always now. Tell them to fight for what they know is right.
[PENNY.] Oh yes, and love. There was love like no tomorrow, for there was no tomorrow, but there is always a tomorrow of some kind or another.