by Brianna Murphy
This weekend the Conservatory is presenting the musical comedy Avenue Q. The show began as an off-Broadway performance in 2003 at the Vineyard Theatre in New York City. After earning rave reviews and being extended four times, the musical branched off onto Broadway, earning a Tony “Triple Crown” in 2004, with Best Musical, Best Score, and Best Book. Described as a coming of age tale, this play is sure to be a hit on campus.
Nathan Watt, a senior who plays Princeton, provided some insight on Capital’s production. Avenue Q is a comedy about Princeton, a young man who has just graduated college. Princeton has just moved to Avenue Q in New York City in search of his life’s purpose. Along his journey, he learns many valuable life lessons with his colorful neighbors. Watt says the show is “essentially the adult take on Sesame Street.” Much like Sesame Street, the show has both puppets and live people on stage.
Despite the show having puppets, it is not a show intended for children. The material is meant for mature audiences only. Watt says that the characters learn life lessons on “racism, love, and even internet porn.”
Descriptions of Avenue Q explicitly state that children should not see the show. The musical will touch on issues such as drinking and sex, meant for young adults to enjoy and ideally relate to. Watt encourages Capital students to attend.
“I think every college student and adults can relate to this show,” Watt said. “The show is very vulgar and we sing about a lot of adult topics, but college students will love the humor and heart in the show. There are many moments in the show that I am sure every college student has experienced that will allow them to relate to the show too.”
Professor Mark Biggs will be directing the show and Bill Boggs will be conducting in the pit. There are two casts for this performance, each performing on a different night. This gives the ability for many different students to have a role in the musical since the musical calls for a small cast. Opening night is Friday, Sept. 20 at 8 p.m.
There will be a performance Saturday, Sept. 21 at 2 p.m.and again at 8 p.m. The final show will be Sunday, Sept. 22, at 2 p.m. Capital University students, faculty, and staff can receive one free ticket with a valid ID. Otherwise, general admission is $20. Tickets can be purchased in the Conservatory Office or the Mees Hall Box Office from one hour prior to the performance.
bmurphy@capital.edu
