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Avenue Q: Impossible To Miss
| It’s a show that’s impossible to miss. From the colourful posters on the underground, to the bright yellow signs outside the Gielgud theatre on Shaftesbury Avenue, Avenue Q feels like a show you should have already seen. With the musical running successfully in London since 2006 the chances are, like me, you will know someone who has. My friend Alex had been twice before, bought the merchandise and played the songs incessantly in her car. There was no escape. I had to see what the fuss was about! Inspired by Sesame Street and the late Jim Henson, Avenue Q twists the notion that felt-covered puppets are only for children and explores adult themes of work, relationships, racism and sex, with dark comedy and sharp musical numbers. |
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The down-at-heel street, in an outer New York borough, is home to a mix of humans, puppets, bears and monsters, who all live together in tenements owned by former child star Gary Coleman. College graduate Princeton is the newest arrival and we follow his journey to find purpose in life. Universal Appeal The show may be set in The Big Apple but the songs are universal: ‘What do you do with a BA in English?’ ‘Everyone’s a little bit racist’ ‘There is life outside your apartment’. The grimy street set is surprisingly versatile, whilst childlike cartoon clips on overhead screens break up the action with amusing asides. Refurbished Venue The Gielgud theatre is a beautiful refurbished venue. The auditorium and front of house are plush and welcoming. Our mid-price seats in the dress circle were comfortable with good sightlines. |
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Posted Sunday 13th September 2009 7:37PM by duncandonuts