AVENUE Q's Casting Takes a Diff'rent Stroke; Gary Coleman To Be Played by Male Actor Off-Broadway

What'chu talkin' about Willis, after a six-year run on Broadway the former child star turned building superintendent will undergo a sex change?  Well, the casting notices already have.

According to the Actors' Equity Association casting call notice, the recently turned Off-Broadway show is seeking an African American male in his mid 20s - 40s to showcase his impeccable comedic timing and strong vocal skills to land the part.

The role, originated by Natalie Venetia Belcon, has been reprised numerous times on Broadway, each time by African American women.  However, this is not the first time Coleman will be portrayed by a male actor.  Casting direction has taken this route before, most notably in the West End production.

As recently announced, Avenue Q will begin Off-Broadway performances on October 9, 2009 at the New World Stages theater.  Avenue Q will perform Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays at 8 p.m., Saturdays at 2 and 8 p.m. and Sundays at 3 and 7:30 p.m.  Ticket prices range from $66.50 to $126.50 and are on sale now through Telecharge by calling 212-239-6200 or visiting www.telecharge.com.

For more information, visit the Avenue Q website at www.avenueq.com.