BWW Reviews: AVENUE Q Wows Packed House

I have decided to throw in more college productions, since we have so many wonderful programs in the area. I stand by not wanting to critique people who are still learning, experimenting and in their formative years. I have decided to see the shows and if they aren't great, I will live by the old adage, "If you can't say something nice, just don't say anything at all!" After last night, I have only great things to say about The University of Alabama at Birmingham theatre department and their production of AVENUE Q.

From the superb set designed by Cliff Simon and student constructed, to the amazing puppetry of the cast, everything I saw last night was as top notch as the only other production of AVENUE Q I have ever seen which was a touring Broadway cast. The students were talented and as far as I could tell never had a moment's hesitation of any kind. It was fast paced, musically perfect and while a little racy for a college production, the cast and crew never shied away from the difficult topics and sexual content. I am a definite proponent of doing a play the way it is written or just don't do it at all. UAB definitely did it right! They even added their own controversial slant in the closing song, "For Now." With their college president embroiled in controversy and a student body asking for his removal, the cast threw in his name as something that is "only for now" and brought the audience to cheers and applause.

Although the show was well cast and any of the performers could be mentioned for their work, Madelyn Burrell was a definite stand out for me. She not only was outstanding as Kate Monster, cute and spunky, she did an excellent job with her puppet and also had a good singing voice. Ben Lundy as Princeton was the perfect partner for Ms. Burrell.

Joshua Holden, based in New York City, came in to coach the cast members with their puppets. Having been on tour with the show himself, it was obvious that the kids had been well trained not only on moving the puppets, but blending themselves in with the character to the point that you followed the puppet more than the person, yet still were aware of the puppeteer being there acting the part. If you have never seen a play with puppets like this, then you really should. But don't let the puppets fool you, this is not a show for kids!

I was definitely impressed with UAB's theatre department, their facilities and their professionalism. I will not hesitate to return next school year for one of their upcoming productions, including SPRING AWAKENING this time next year. I hope you will keep an eye out for their productions. But be advised that the lovely theatre at the Alys Stephens Center was full, so order tickets in advance! ASC Box Office # 975-ARTS or get information at www.uab.edu/cas/theatre/productions.

Photo of UAB photographer Steve Wood with cast of AVENUE Q.

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