The show opens with the character of Princeton trying to navigate his life after college. Trying to find an apartment Princeton has searched Avenue’s A-P before arriving in Avenue Q and finding the perfect place for him (somewhere he can actually afford, that is).
Before too long he is introduced to his neighbours; Kate Monster, Trekkie, Christmas Eve, Brian, Nicky & Rod and Gary Coleman. Yes, that Gary Coleman.
Despite having his own apartment Princeton is looking for a purpose in life. After all ‘What Do You Do with a B.A. in English?’ While Princeton is doing this the other characters have their own stories going on in the background. Brian is trying to make it as a comedian, Christmas Eve needs clients for her therapist business, Rod is trying to come to terms with his closeted homosexuality and Kate Monster wants to open a school for monsters.
Each characters individual problems allow for excellent character development – and musical numbers – throughout the show, allowing the audience to become emotionally involved, but also having the time of their lives. All helped, of course, by the actors on stage putting in both excellent puppet work and performances. Even more impressive considering how new the role of puppeteer may have been to some cast members.
The music and the story are both excellent also, however, this is hardly surprising considering Avenue Q won Best Book, Best Score & Best Musical at the 2004 Tony Awards. However, this production’s performances of these characters, songs, and the story as a whole, are beyond excellent. Every single person on stage coming across as professional. Even the simple stage set-up looks great and works perfectly for the show.
Avenue Q may not be an original production but it is a perfect performance of a pre-existing one. One could argue that the production had an easier time due to it’s pre-acknowledged fame but the hard work by everyone involved is clear and deserves a round of applause.