Greetings,

This week saw the opening of the Broadway smash Avenue Q at San Francisco’s Orpheum Theatre. It’s Sesame Street for grown-ups and is every bit the brilliant show I hoped it would be. With unusually catchy naughty tunes like “It Sucks to Be Me,” “The Internet Is for Porn,” and “Everyone’s a Little Bit Racist,” this monster puppet show socks a punch with every note.

And the eight-minute puppet-shagging scene had everyone howling, some people ducking for cover. I was simply impressed with the puppet stamina!



The producers threw an opening night party in the Blue Room at The Orpheum where guests knocked back cocktails and mingled with cast members.


Puppeteer Minglie Chen         Q fur lovers Ricky and Christopher


Angela Ai & Jennie Kwan          PR guru Charlie Zuckow & partner John

The reviews from all those I spoke to were universally stellar.

“Brilliant,” said Jan Wahl of KRON4.

“Smart and incredibly funny,” said author and San Francisco treasure Armistead Maupin.

“One of the funniest shows ever,” said Energy 92.7 FM boss John Peake.


John Peake & Jan Wahl                        With Christopher, pal & Armistead


Sassy Q gals, plus Avenue Q stars Christian Anderson, his daughter & Carla Renata "little Gary Coleman"

I thought it was hysterical from beginning to end. Not sure the Paris Hilton club of teen girls sitting next to me were as amused.

Broadway got Avenue Q first, then Vegas. Mmm, I suppose we’ll do with sloppy thirds! Now, at least I know what the FUZZ was all about. Avenue Q delivers. It’s irreverent and heartwarming, bold and brilliant; it’s a must-see for anyone who loves theater. This is more than a puppet show. You have to see it to understand!

Go on. Treat yourself to a night on Avenue Q.

Cheers,
Liam
-)


with Jan, Supervisor Bevan Dufty & John P., plus Avenue Q's Robert McClure playing paparazzi