REVIEW: Take a Stroll Along 'Avenue Q'

Having lived in the village for over a decade, I've been vaguely aware of the Greendale Community Theatre, but have never taken the time - until now- to attend any of their performances. I always chalked it up to one of those hometown things you plan to do, but never get around to.

Boy, have I been missing out on a little gem in our community!

The theatre group is currently performing based on a book by Jeff Whitty with music and lyrics by Robert Lopez and Jeff Mark. Billed as an adult version of 'Sesame Street', the Broadway musical features people and puppets who tell the story of trying to make it in New York City with big dreams and a tiny bank account.   

From the opening number "What Do You Do With a B.A. in English/It Sucks to be Me" to the final song, "For Now", this talented group of actors kept the audience laughing and humming along. 

An impressive set, designed by Brian Bzdawka, stayed the same throughout the production, but was artfully reinterpreted for each scene with lighting and prop changes, transporting the actors from a New York City street scene to a nightclub to the inside of a brownstone apartment.

The enthusiastic cast was anchored by lead Michael David Stoddard, who deftly switched between puppets Princeton, the main character, and Rod, the investment banker neighbor who is struggling to come to terms with his sexual identity. 

Kate Monster, Princeton's love interest, is portrayed by the talented Rachael Zientek, a first year Musical Theatre student at UWM.  Zientek's and Stoddard's strong vocals provided many enjoyable songs throughout the show.

Zak Keil, as Trekkie Monster, and Laura McDonald, as Christmas Eve, nailed the unique accents of their characters' voices, and the remaining cast was made up of talented actors who juggled roles and puppets with ease. 

The six-member pit orchestra, led by conductor (and GHS Marching Band Director) Tom Reifenberg, performed masterfully with just the right volume as to not overpower the performers' singing, yet fill the auditorium with each musical number.

The musical lasted a little over two hours with a 15-minute intermission.  A sign on the door leading to the auditorium warned that the show is intended for 'mature audiences only' due to good-natured adult humor.

Donations were collected after the show on behalf of the Make-a-Wish Foundation of Wisconsin.

'Avenue Q' will be performed at the Greendale High School auditorium again on January 12, 13, 14 at 7:30 p.m. The cost is $15 for adults and $10 for seniors and students. Tickets can be purchased at the door, by clicking here or calling 414-423-2700, ext 4193. 

The Greendale Community Theatre is affiliated with the Greendale Park & Recreation Department. Some of the past shows put on by the theatre group have included 'Guys and Dolls', 'Rent', and 'Hairspray.'

I may have missed those shows, but I'm glad I didn't miss this one and if you are up for an enjoyable evening of adult entertainment, you won't want to miss it either!