By John Posada
originally published: 11/05/2022
(OCEAN TOWNSHIP, NJ) -- The Axelrod Performing Arts Center (APAC) is presenting Avenue Q, the laugh-out-loud musical that features grown-up puppets. This play tells the timeless story of a bright-eyed college grad named Princeton. When he arrives in the city with big dreams and a tiny bank account, he has to move into a shabby apartment all the way out on Avenue Q. The show runs through November 20. Photographer John Posada was on hand to take photos.
The neighbors seem nice, but he soon discovers this is far from an ordinary neighborhood. There’s Kate (the girl next door), Lucy (the slut), Rod (the Republican), Trekkie (the internet entrepreneur), building superintendent Gary Coleman (yes, that Gary Coleman!) and other new friends. Together, they struggle to find jobs, dates and their ever-elusive purpose in life.
An “adult” musical with puppets, Avenue Q gained international fame for its biting satire and racy content along with a cast of irresistible puppets that may or may not resemble the cast of Sesame Street all grown up.
“Even though this musical is already 20-years-old, it still resonates with its hilarious takes on sexuality, racism and what it means to live in a free society,” says Producer and APAC Artistic Director Andrew DePrisco. “It’s not all preachy, but it’s perceptive as hell. And it's as hilarious as it was when it was first written—like good tequila, Avenue Q has only improved with age! Or maybe it’s bourbon!”
Tickets range from $32-65 and are available for purchase online or by calling (732) 531-9106, ext. 14. The APAC production is the first to appear on the Jersey Shore since the musical closed in New York in 2019.
The intoxicating Axelrod production is directed and choreographed by Todd LaBron Underwood, featuring the original cast of puppets designed by Rick Lyon (from the original company), with music direction by Michael Gilch.
The cast includes Clint Hromsco (as Princeton/Rod), Miranda Wolf (as Kate Monster/Lucy the Slut), Adam Zeph (as Trekkie Monster/Nicky), Beau Bradshaw (as Brian), Né Lasheé (as Gary Coleman) and Amelia Fei (as Christmas Eve). The ensemble includes Francesca Saccomagno, Luke Pearlberg and Justin Sudderth.
The scenic designer is Fred Sorrentino, lighting designer is Chris D’Angelo, sound designer is Ian Wehrle, costume designer is Fred Mayo and prop designer is Susan Bloir. The stage managers are Larry Copeland and Terrence Berry.
Here are more photos from the production.
Avenue Q is not recommended for audiences under 14 years of age, and while the content is no worse than what’s playing on cable these days, the theater wants parents to be aware that its humor is intended for mature audiences. Be forewarned: full puppet nudity will result in loud laughter (as loud as the hell you want!)
The Axelrod Performing Arts Center is located at 100 Grant Ave., Deal Park, just five minutes from downtown Asbury Park, with plenty of free parking.
About the author: John Posada is a New Jersey based photographer specializing in photographing live theatre and music performances. Currently, John has spent the last 6 years concentrating on photographing almost 400 theater productions at over 70 different NJ theatres. Click here for John's website.
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