AVENUE Q Begins Tonight at Austin Theatre Project

Every few years or so a show comes to Broadway that takes the world by storm. Even rarer... when that show wins the coveted Tony Award "triple crown!" Avenue Q shocked the theatre world when it walked away with Best Show, Best Book, and Best Score - defeating Wicked, the odds-on favorite to sweep the awards that season.

Austin Theatre Project created quite a buzz in the Austin theatre community when they obtained the exclusive rights to present the blockbuster show. For almost a year, actors were asking about auditions (they were excited, too!) and nearly 100 of them auditioned for nine roles. When Jeff Davis of BroadwayWorld.com made his annual list of the most anticipated shows of the upcoming year, ATP's Avenue Q was number one on the list.

Joining the Avenue Q cast is Michelle Alexander (Gary Coleman), Isaac Arrieta (Princeton), Matthew Charles Burnett (Rod/Bad Idea Bear), RMichael Clinkscales (Brian), Marett Hanes (Kate Monster) Rachel Hoovler (Mrs. Thistletwat/Bad Idea Bear), June Julian (Christmas Eve), Ashley Laverty (Lucy T. Slut), and Eric Meo (Nicky/Trekkie Monster).

Avenue Q is being directed by Marco Bazan and David Blackburn will serve as Music Director and Conductor. Lighting design is by Taylor Whitmire and Sound Design is by Sam Kokakjo.

Tickets for Avenue Q range from $15 (group rate) to $30 (Premium Seating) and are currently on sale. Box office records are being smashed in just the first week and are running 900% ahead of previous averages. So when we say tickets are going fast, we really mean it. There are only 10 performances scheduled for Avenue Q and due to scheduling at the Dougherty Arts Center, there is no possibility of holding the show over.

For tickets and information, visit www.austintheatreproject.org.