Last night, I travelled the hour long journey to Cardiff to see Avenue Q in The New Theatre.
I must admit when I heard it involved puppets with the puppeteers clearly on show, I thought it may be juvenile and a little bit silly. But I quickly ate my words after the first act. When there are songs such as 'Everyone's a little bit racist' and 'You Can Be as Loud as the Hell You Want (When You're Makin' Love)'. It's clear that this musical is definitely for adults especially when the puppets are seen to have sex.
The story revolves around Avenue Q, a fictional street and it's residents. When Princeton arrives after getting a BA in English, he isn't sure what his purpose is or what he will do with his life. The other characters he meets include Kate Monster, Rod - a frustrated in the closet gay guy. Although all the main characters are puppets, I really got sucked in to the story and even had slight moments when I got a small tear.
The actors/puppeteers do double up as a few characters which at first was slightly confusing but its clear to see its an skill to be able to act,sing and control the puppet. Katherine Moraz, who played Kate and Lucy the Slut was clearly talented with a great pair of lungs on her.
When I returned I went to the pub where I work, where all the male contractors quizzed me on where I'd been. Immediately, I heard fits of laughter after saying I'd been to see a musical involving puppets it was only when I said some of the song titles and the fact I would go again they started to actually listen and looked at my programme. I have just invested in the soundtrack so will now be walking to university singing, 'It Sucks To Be Me' and 'The Internet is for Porn.'
Its a shame that Avenue Q was only in the New Theatre from the 21st - 25th Feb, else I would say go see it today! But I will end in saying if you get chance DEFINITELY dont poo-poo it because it involves puppets give it a chance. And if you know me buy me a ticket!
