ROBIN'S SHOW REVIEW: Avenue Q

(photo credit: Carol Rosegg)

It's one of those shows that most of my friends thought I had seen already, being the theatre fan that I am.  But, somehow, Avenue Q, escaped me.

This week, I enjoyed a somewhat rare girl's night out, and went to see this long-running Off-Broadway Tony-Award winning hit.

Full of belly laughs, puppet sex (yup...you heard me), talented perfomers and catchy tunes, Avenue Q proved why it has staying power.

It tells the story of a recent college grad named PRINCETON who moves into a shabby apartment all the way out on Avenue Q. There, he meets KATE (the "monster" girl next door), LUCY (the slut), ROD (the gay Republican), TREKKIE (the pervert) and other colorful types who help PRINCETON finally discover his purpose in life.  And would you believe the building's superintendent is Gary Coleman?!? (Yes, that Gary Coleman (may he rest in peace.)

The cast does admirable double-duty, since most perform with the adorable puppets and even assume multiple roles....voices....personnas.  No easy feat....try holding a puppet on your hand/arm for over two hours.  But, they tough it out with aplomb, and the laughs are infectious.

Adults enjoy Avenue Q, but you may wonder if it's appropriate for kids. Avenue Q is not suitable for  young children because it blatantly addresses issues like sex, drinking, and surfing the web for porn. Teens would likely think it's cool.  But, as a parent, it's up to your discretion.

Check out: http://avenueq.com/.  With the code AQBLOG12, get tickets as low as $55! (Valid through 5/26/11)  The code may be used at broadwayoffers.com, or on the phone or at the box office.  Avenue Q is playng at New World Stages, 340 West 50th Street (between 8-9 avenues) in NYC.

ROBIN'S SHOW RECOMMENDATION: John Tartaglia's ImaginOcean

John Tartaglia’s ImaginOcean, which recently opened on March 31 in NYC, takes audiences on a live musical voyage to the bottom of the ocean floor and follows the escapades of Dorsel, Tank and Bubbles. Treasure map in hand, this loveable trio of best fish buddies embark on an aquatic adventure, leading them to new friends and discoveries.

Created and written by Tony and the Emmy Award nominee (perhaps best known for the hit musical Avenue Q), John Tartaglia’s ImaginOcean is an inventive family musical with a positive message for children. With direction and musical staging by veteran musical theater performer Donna Drake, music and lyrics by William Wade, this interactive sea tale boasts spirited production numbers, memorable characters, cool black light puppet technology and even glow in the dark bubbles. My son, Seth, 7, enjoyed it, as did my husband and I...though the audience was full of many younger children who had a good time.

“I created this show with families in mind,” says John Tartaglia, ImaginOcean writer and producer. “With the one hour running time, it’s a perfect activity for parents, grandparents and children of all ages to see together.”

With increased demand for weekend performances, ImaginOcean is scheduling two additional shows on Saturdays starting the week of May 10. New Saturday show times will be at 2PM and 4:30PM in addition to the current 11AM performance. Other show times are Wednesdays at11AM, 2PM and 7PM; and Sundays at 12PM.

ImaginOcean is produced by Jellyfish Jive Productions; Philip Katz, Michael Shawn Lewis along with John Tartaglia.

Tickets are $39 and may be purchased through TeleCharge (212) 239-6200 or http://www.telecharge.com and at the box office at NEW WORLD STAGES, 340 West 50th Street. For groups of 12 or more, please contact Group Sales Box Office at 800-223-7565 or visit http://www.bestofbroadway.com.

For more information about John Tartaglia’s ImaginOcean, please visit the official show website http://www.imaginoceanthemusical.com.