Lots of fur but certainly no fluff, Avenue Q brings puppets, porn and perfection to the West End stage
When Avenue Q premiered Off-Broadway in 2003, few could have predicted it would go on to beat Wicked to the 2004 Tony Award for Best Musical. Yet this scrappy, foul-mouthed puppet show did exactly that, proving that big laughs (and even bigger heart) can overcome even the biggest of challenges.
After a successful West End run (over five years) across the Noël Coward Theatre, Gielgud Theatre and Wyndham’s Theatre, Avenue Q remains a cult favourite and this latest London revival might just be its strongest outing yet.
Let’s be clear: this is Sesame Street for grown-ups (if Sesame Street swapped life lessons for porn jokes and existential dread). From Trekkie Monster’s riotous “The Internet Is for Porn” to Lucy the Slut’s unapologetic “Special”, it’s outrageous, inappropriate and consistently hilarious.
What’s it about?
Fresh graduate Princeton arrives in New York with big dreams and a very small budget, landing in the eclectic neighbourhood of Avenue Q. Here he meets a motley crew of misfits: aspiring teacher Kate Monster, sexually confused Rod, laid-back Nicky, internet addict Trekkie Monster and the building’s landlord – Gary Coleman (of 1970’s TV’s Different Strokes fame).
At its core, this is a coming-of-age story about purpose, identity and figuring out life when you’re absolutely winging it. Princeton may have a BA in English but like many graduates, he’s still asking the big question: what do I do now?
The cast
Emily Benjamin is a standout, effortlessly switching between the sweet optimism of Kate Monster and the gloriously outrageous Lucy the Slut. “There’s a Fine, Fine Line” lands with real emotional weight, while “Special” is gleefully unhinged.
Noah Harrison brings charm and precision to both Princeton and Rod, with Rod’s “My Girlfriend, Who Lives in Canada” played with just the right mix of denial and desperation.
The Bad Idea Bears remain scene-stealers, with Meg Hateley and Charlie McCullagh revelling in their chaos, delivering deliciously dark comic timing as everyone’s favourite plush pushers.
Among the human characters, Oliver Jacobson and Amelia Kinu Muus bring warmth to Brian and Christmas Eve. “I’m Not Wearing Underwear Today” is silly fluff, while “The More You Ruv Someone” provides one of the show’s unexpected tender moments.
Dionne Ward-Anderson makes a strong impression as Gary Coleman, though the reference does feel increasingly dated. A modern equivalent might land more effectively with younger audiences, although there’s still charm in the absurdity.
Beneath the swearing and satire, Avenue Q tackles big topics: racism, sexuality, relationships and the universal panic of not having your life together. It’s disarmingly honest and relevant in the world still today.
The music
The score is wall-to-wall hits: “It Sucks to Be Me”, “Everyone’s a Little Bit Racist”, “The Internet Is for Porn”, and “There Is Life Outside Your Apartment” are as sharp and catchy as ever.
“The Money Song” remains a fun interactive moment, though it could go further. Imagine fake cash raining down over the audience for the cast to scramble after. Chaotic? Yes. On brand? Absolutely.
Why you should see it
If you love puppets, great songs and want a fun night at the theatre, Avenue Q is a great choice of shows to see right now in London.
I’ve seen many productions of Avenue Q over the past twenty years and I can safely say this is the best I have ever seen it!
The show is in London for a limited time (currently booking until August) and so what the fuzz are you waiting for – get a ticket now!
★★★★
West End Wilma
