Don’t call the puppets in Avenue Q “Muppets.”
“Avenue Q has not been authorized or approved by the Jim Henson Company or Sesame Workshop, which have no responsibility for its content,” declares a disclaimer on the program of the Arkansas Repertory Theatre, where Q made its a disarmingly charming debut Friday night.
After all, PG Muppets, unlike Avenue Q’s sing-songy creatures - steered handily and hilariously by actors on stage, lips unapologetically moving - never chirp lyrics like “Everyone’s a Little Bit Racist” and “If You Were Gay.” And Sesame Street’s resident addicted monster was obsessed with cookies, not Internet porn.
Q is more like R. Or at least PG-13.
But the show, about young adults and monsters coping with unemployment, relationships, unfulfillment and identity in a rundown area of New York via catchy tunes like “What Do You Do With a B.A. in English/It Sucks to Be Me” is a hoot - with an unexpected dose of heart - for those not offended by felt critters who curse and, uh, canoodle.
The multitasking cast acts, sings and dances (mostly grapevines and box steps), as well as maneuvers puppets. Will Holly amazes by portraying both wistful Princeton and the high-strung Rod - sometimes simultaneously. Same for Bailey Means, who brilliantly balances the sweet Kate Monster and skanky Lucy the Slut.
Also standing out is Shaleah Adkisson, who playfully portrays Gary Coleman. Yes, the one from Diff’rent Strokes. He’s the superintendent. Whatchoo talkin’ ‘bout, Avenue Q?
Avenue Q will be performed again at 8 p.m. today and 2 and 7 p.m. Sunday, with performances at 7 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays, 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, and 2 and 7 p.m. Sundays through June 30 at the Arkansas Repertory Theatre, Sixth and Main streets, Little Rock. Tickets are $30-$60. There will be a sign-interpreted performance for the hearing-impaired on June 12. Call (501) 378-0405 or visit therep.org/attend.
Arkansas, Pages 13 on 06/08/2013