Avenue Q 1000th gala performance

Avenue Q - Noel Coward Theatre

Music & Lyrics: Robert Lopez & Jeff Marx

Book: Jeff Whitty

Director: Jason Moore

Reviewer: Liz Vile

When I was asked to review this production I jumped at the chance. Having seen this show before I was very interested to see if the new cast created such an energetic and enthusiastic performance as the cast I originally saw. They did not disappoint. The production was slick, vibrant and well performed throughout confirming why it has easily reached its 1000th performance.

Some people may be wary about watching this production due to worries about some of the more explicit content or that they may feel silly watching hand puppets on stage, but if you are willing to enter the theatre with an open mind and can let your imagination take over you will have a very enjoyable night.

The story centres on the inhabitants of Avenue Q as they live, love, get stuck in dead-end jobs, have sex, get stuck in the closet but ultimately accept themselves and appreciate what they have. Through a range of group and solo songs as well as some very witty dialogue the characters of the puppets and humans on stage are quickly and clearly presented to the audience. Although you can see the cast members manipulating the puppets this does not detract from the action, in fact this enhances it. By seeing the actor's facial expressions and seeing them speak intensifies the emotions of the puppets they are manipulating. At first it does seem strange watching the puppet and the actor on stage together but after no more than 10 minutes it becomes normal and you couldn't imagine the show working any other way.

The costumes of all the characters were very bright and colourful which helped draw your eye away from the puppeteers who were dressed in grey as well as adding to the youthful atmosphere. Special mention goes to one of Christmas Eve's outfits for originality and colour but I won't spoil the surprise for anyone who hasn't seen it yet!

The continual roars of laughter from the audience coupled with the extended applause during the curtain call was confirmation that a brilliant night was had by all, and although some of the material did touch a few sensitive areas and provoked questions it was done in good humour with a great sense of fun.

After the curtain call a special mention was given by two members of the cast about this being the 1000^th performance before the rest of the cast came on announced by two large confetti cannons exploding into the audience. An extra special way to finish off an extra special celebration.