Avenue Q

Sold out before opening night (extra performances now scheduled), Avenue Q at the Phoenix Theatre is a delight. Professional, riveting, moving; JYM Theatre Company’s purpose is achieved. 

The music and dialogue is accomplished in itself, with a Tony Award to prove it.  But on a local level, director Pip Mushin seeks out every opportunity to enhance the audience’s experience. Whether it’s innovative lighting for a vignette, or witty projection, the audience is invited to share the woes and celebrations with a crazy cast of puppets and their human counterparts (oh, and human neighbours Gary Coleman, Brian and Christmas Eve).

The cast are equally strong in singing, acting and maneuvering the puppets. Their animated faces breathe life into the puppets, and their bodies complete the image. Standouts include Emma Harris as Kate Monster, Grant Buse as Rod, and Courtney Krulis as Lucy the Slut. However they all master the beloved voices that are synonymous with their characters. Special mention here goes to Jonathan Goldberg as Nicky, and Josh Prince as Trekkie Monster.

The orchestra is also pitch perfect, led by Musical Director Philip Setton who manages to conduct whilst playing guitar.  Choreography by Yakira Abraham, whilst simple, is effective. A few well timed nods and visits into the auditorium are appropriate for the style of show. 

The set, whilst a design copy from the New York stage, is a triumph for the construction team, led by Yossi Torbiner. The main set is the dilapidated Avenue Q apartment block exterior.  Every door and window is utilised. The audience quickly learns who lives where, and how they live. Interior sets perfectly reflect characterisation. There are vision impairments, however, from the far sides of the auditorium (particularly the left hand side).

JYM’s production of Avenue Q truly is a professional show made (mainly) by and (mainly) for the Jewish community of Melbourne. It will warm you, touch you, and provide you with insightful commentaries regarding love, sex, money, race and homosexuality. 

Tammy Shmerling

Link to our earlier coverage.