Avenue Q
I have a complicated relationship with musical theatre, in that I kind of enjoy it more than I feel is appropriate. I’m not generally embarrassed by who I am — not anymore, anyway — but an appreciation for lavish musical productions is clearly crossing a line. I just don’t think it does anybody any good to know that sometimes, when I’m home alone in the middle of the day, I’ll play “Defying Gravity” from Wicked at a high volume and become overwhelmed with emotion.
I’m only sort of kidding.
Erin and I went to see Avenue Q tonight at the Elgin theatre in Toronto. We inadvertently got tickets for the opening night show, which I guess is kind of a nice bonus. Our programs had a shiny “Opening Night!” sticker. I’m going to put mine into the scrapbook I plan on presenting to my future children.
The show was good. I was kind of put-off by the audience which was just a little bit too into the concept of puppets swearing and having sex, but that’s hardly the show’s fault. The songs were pretty hilarious, and I was continually impressed by the puppeteering skills on display. I think puppeteering is an overlooked art form. I’d be absolutely terrible at it — my puppet would always look like he was chewing and overdubbed — but these people on stage make it look effortless. Gold stars for all of them.
Anyway, I think my favourite song was “I wish I could go back to college” but that’s probably because the whole college/real life transition period concept is something I find absolutely hilarious at the moment. Maybe I’ll explain why later!
Anyway, a good show. You should see it!