As children we are taught through the likes of Sesame Street that you are a special individual n who can achieve all of their dreams. Avenue Q is the idea that this is not actually the case, and looks at what actually happens to early 20-somethings after college.
In the first few minutes of Avenue Q it is hard to imagine that the puppeteers will not be a distraction but you find that very quickly you don't notice them onstage. The actors are incredibly skilled with the puppets and their mannerisms are subtle but have great comedic effect.
The songs in Avenue Q are nothing short of genius. While I don't tend to listen to comedy songs much after the show, the likes of Everyone's A Little Bit Racist, The Internet Is For Porn and It Sucks To Be Me are catchy as well as clever. While Avenue Q was seen as quite offensive when it came out, this has been somewhat dulled by the likes of The Book Of Mormon opening afterwards.
There is a heart behind Avenue Q - it isn't just rude puppets. The storyline is solid and hugely entertaining. The cast are fantastic and most are playing multiple characters. The vocals are excellent throughout among the entire cast but special mention has to go to Sarah Harlington as Kate Monster who is outstanding.
Avenue Q tours regularly but it is showing no signs of growing tired and the packed theatre certainly seemed to enjoy it!
Avenue Q is on tour around the UK.
Videos