Thursday, June 9, 2011

Adult Musical Takes Centre Stage in Bradford

No strings attached: Puppet mayhem at the Alhambra


With its unique mix of pornography, comedy and puppets, controversial musical Avenue Q has been wowing theatre-goers in Bradford this week. The multi-award winning show is taking centre-stage at the city’s Alhambra Theatre, as part of a UK-wide tour since it left London’s West End last October.



The show depicts life on a rundown US street and tells the story of puppet Princeton, a recent university graduate, who meets fellow neighbours Kate Monster and Lucy, among other colourful types. Together they help Princeton discover the purpose of life.



Matt Henry, who plays human character Gary Coleman, said it has a real educational element to it. It’s a show that teaches adults about life dramas, dealing with things such as racism, sexuality, financial issues and relationship issues.



“I would say it is Sesame Street for adults,” he said.



With all manner of risqué taboos confronted in the show, it is not for the faint-hearted. But Henry insists that Bradford audiences have enjoyed every minute.



“They loved it, they can’t get enough of it,” he said. “They are on their feet cheering, egging us on. It has been so well received.”



The success of the show on both sides of the pond has been repeated in Bradford, with the Alhambra’s box office reporting strong sales. It ends its run on Saturday, June 11.

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