Those unfamiliar with the story should strap in – it’s a laugh-out-loud, R-rated Broadway smash hit, which has firmly cemented itself in theatre history with its tackling of taboo issues like racism, unemployment, homosexuality, love, and porn. . . All presented by ‘Sesame Street’-like puppets.
The anti-musical redefines musical theatre. It tells the story of college grad Princeton, who moves into a shabby New York apartment in Avenue Q. There, he meets nice residents, but it’s not the ordinary neighbourhood. Princeton and his new friends struggle in the realms of employment, dating, and the big question of what is their purpose in life.
In 2004, 'Avenue Q' took home a 'triple crown' at the Tony Awards: Best Musical, Best Score, and Best Book Of A Musical.
“Since its Broadway premiere two decades ago, ‘Avenue Q’ has solidified its place as a timeless classic,” Director Pip Mushin says. “For first-time audiences, they are in for one hell of a treat! For those revisiting the show, this production is packed with enough fresh elements and unexpected delights that not only keep it alive and vibrant but will deliver the same exhilarating thrill as the very first time they saw it.”
It’s a show that appeals to a wide-ranging crowd of theatre-goers, and also those who don’t usually go to the theatre but love all things inappropriate!
‘If You Were Gay’ is one of the songs in the show, parodying the Bert & Ernie sketches from ‘Sesame Street’ with Rod & Ricky, the same-sex puppets. The characters were the brainchild of openly gay ‘Avenue Q’ creator Jeff Whitty.
Starring as part of the show is non-binary performer Cassie Ogle, who is taking on the role of Lucy, a sultry cabaret singer and perhaps one of the show’s best-known characters.
“Feeling pretty dang special to be heading to the National Theatre with AG Theatre Productions in ‘Avenue Q’,” Cassie says on their socials. “This show is ridiculously funny, gather your (adult) pals, have a wine or two and come watch some puppets do the dirty and discover their purpose.”
‘Avenue Q’ plays The National Theatre (Melbourne) 22 February-8 March.
