REVIEW | Avenue Q

There are musicals that make you laugh, musicals that make you think, and then there’s Avenue Q, which masterfully does both. This wickedly funny and surprisingly poignant production by AG Theatre takes audiences on an outrageous yet deeply relatable journey through the struggles of adulthood. Combining satire, heartfelt storytelling, and puppetry magic, led by director Pip Mushin and an exceptionally talented cast, the result is an unforgettable night at the theatre.

A critically acclaimed musical comedy, the production follows Princeton, a bright-eyed recent college graduate who arrives in New York with big dreams but little direction. Moving into a rundown apartment on Avenue Q, he meets a motley crew of neighbours, each grappling with their own existential dilemmas from unemployment, love, self-acceptance, and finding their purpose in life. Through a series of laugh-out-loud encounters, the production uses its unique puppet-and-human hybrid cast to explore the realities of adulthood with unapologetic wit and reliability.

While the premise might sound lighthearted, this witty and audacious musical is anything but conventional. It embraces topics often deemed taboo—racism, sexuality, internet addiction, and personal failures—and spins them into musical numbers so sharp and self-aware that they leave audiences in stitches while prompting reflection. Beneath its layers of humour and absurdity, the show ultimately reminds us that we are all just trying to figure life out, one mistake at a time.

A highlight of this production is the sheer talent of the cast, who not only bring their characters to life vocally and physically but do so while mastering the art of puppetry. The control and fluidity with which the puppets are handled make it easy to forget that they are being operated by real people. Harley Dasey’s Princeton is both endearing and earnest, capturing the wide-eyed optimism and gradual disillusionment of post-graduation life. His chemistry with Zoe Crisp’s Kate Monster is particularly charming, making their storyline both humorous and touching.

Jonathon Shilling’s Rod is hilariously neurotic, while Andrew McDougall skillfully balances both Nicky and Trekkie Monster, stealing scenes with impeccable comedic timing. Cassie Ogle’s portrayal of the sultry Lucy and the sharp-tongued Mrs. T adds a delightful contrast to the ensemble. Stephanie Lacerna as Gary Coleman delivers an engaging performance, while Chiew-Jin Khut’s Xmas Eve and Matthew Tomlin’s Brian deliver plenty of humour throughout the night. Special mention must go to Perri Espinoza and Darcy Harriss as the Bad Idea Bears whose mischievous antics provide plenty of laughs.

Beyond the stellar performances, this production is a visual and auditory delight. Abbey Stanway’s production design captures the essence of the run-down yet loveable neighbourhood, while Karen Spencer’s costumes and Andrew McDougall’s puppet designs maintain the show’s distinct, quirky aesthetic. The integration of projections and lighting adds to the immersive experience, seamlessly transitioning between moments of absurdity and sincerity.

Musically, the show is a triumph. Alexandra Byrne’s music direction ensures that every number is delivered with precision and energy. The cast showcases impeccable vocal ability, delivering the score with precision and energy. The live band adds another layer of dynamism, effortlessly navigating the diverse musical influences that shape the production’s soundscape.

Adriana Pannuzzo’s choreography is deceptively complex, ensuring that even as performers operate their puppets, their movements are infused with character-specific nuances. Whether it’s Princeton’s awkward enthusiasm or Lucy’s exaggerated sultriness, every physical choice enhances the storytelling. The precision in movement, paired with the sharp comedic beats, keeps the energy high and the laughs rolling throughout.

Avenue Q is not for the faint of heart—its humour is brazen, its themes provocative, and its delivery unfiltered. But therein lies its brilliance. It is a show that acknowledges the messy, sometimes absurd nature of life and presents it with a wink and a song. This production captures that spirit flawlessly, delivering an evening of entertainment that is as side-splittingly funny as it is surprisingly profound.

Avenue Q is playing at The National Theatre from 22nd February until 16th March. For tickets or more information, please visit https://agtheatre.com.au/avenueq/