WITH the Muppets making great shakes on the silver screen at present, Avenue Q picked the perfect time to roll into town, offering the very antithesis of Jim Henson’s creations.
Yes, the cast is a mixture of people and puppets, but that is where the similarities end.
Although puppets are the medium, this does not mean this is one for kids, but it is one for anyone wanting two fantastic hours at the theatre watching something totally different.
Set in an outer borough of New York City, Avenue Q focuses on new arrival Princeton as he settles in with his new neighbours – including two monsters, one with very questionable internet habits, and their handyman, Gary Coleman.
The story charts Princeton’s efforts in life and love as he strives to find his purpose, but the brilliance of the performance comes in its hilarious musical numbers.
Subject matter includes how it’s OK to be gay, an enthusiastic number on what the internet is primarily used for and the standout song ‘Everyone’s a little bit racist.’ The fact the obscenities and near-knuckle lines are coming from the mouths of puppets add to the sense of mischief.
A personal favourite was the cameo from the bears, two doe-eyed, cuties whose sole purpose was to get the main characters to drink to excess and give in to their base instincts.
For those who grew up on the Muppets and Sesame Street, Avenue Q is a refreshing and brilliant use of puppets which will titillate and entertain in equal measure.
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