Avenue Q in West Palm Beach is a Raunchy, Hilarious and Surprisingly Heartfelt Ride.

March 7th, 2025

Stepping into the Bhetty Waldron Theatre at Actor’s Rep for Avenue Q was like being transported back to a great memory—at least, that’s how it felt for me. Having seen the show on Broadway years ago, this production was both nostalgic and refreshingly new, packed with laugh-out-loud humor, surprisingly touching moments, and an energy that completely captivated the audience. From the first note, it was clear the cast had the audience hooked.

For Esqui (Princeton/Rod), Avenue Q is more than just a performance—it was a career-defining moment. “It really changed my perspective of what musical theater can be,” he shared. Originally a film major, discovering Avenue Q and similar irreverent musicals like The Book of Mormon convinced him to pursue musical theater. His passion for the show shines through in his performance, making Princeton’s search for “purpose” both hilarious and relatable.

Director Carlo Sabusap, who also takes on the role of Trekkie Monster, called Avenue Q his favorite musical of all time. “The first time I saw it, I was like, ‘Oh my God, you could do a musical about puppets and beat Wicked for the Tony Award?’” Sabusap marveled. “But what got me was that it was heartfelt. Avenue Q really spoke to me.” This deep appreciation for the show is evident in his direction, balancing the raunchy humor with the emotional depth that makes Avenue Q more than just a crude puppet show.

Carlo Sabusap and Sarah Kenny operating Trekkie Monster. Photo credit: Elijah Pestana

The performance is packed with iconic moments, from the ridiculously catchy “The Internet Is for Porn” to the infamous puppet sex scene that had the audience screaming with laughter. The humor is raunchy and irreverent but always lands, thanks to the cast’s comedic timing and the clever addition of video prompts that help with transitions. “At some points, the audience was screaming so loudly, we couldn’t hear the music,” Sabusap admitted. “Their energy was contagious.”

Adding to the chaos are the Bad Idea Bears, played by Ariel Hodgetts and Sarah Kenny, who deliver mischievous fun throughout the show.

Ariel Hodgetts, Sarah Kenny operating the Bad Idea Bears. Photo credit: Elijah Pestana

Meanwhile, Elizabeth Robinson brings warmth and sincerity to Kate Monster, balancing out the insanity with moments of genuine emotion. Robinson spoke about how the show connects with audiences on a deeper level: “As adults, we’re very guarded, and it’s hard for us to feel emotion in the same way. The humor is like the chaser to letting yourself feel comfortable, connect with these characters, and experience all the emotions they’re going through.”

Elizabeth Robinson operating Kate Monster. Photo credit: Elijah Pestana

Even for those with a history with the show, the production felt special. Greg Halmos (Brian) had a unique connection—his mother was one of the original producers on Broadway. “I saw the show from its very beginnings through opening and closing, and then it ran for another 10 years at New World Stages,” he recalled. That long-standing love for the show was reflected in his performance, seamlessly embodying the laid-back, lovable nature of Brian.

With humor that borders on the offensive, Avenue Q might seem like a risky production in today’s climate. But as Esqui pointed out, the show’s themes remain incredibly relevant. “It’s what we’re going through as a nation, and for young adults going through college, figuring things out, finding your sexuality, your purpose. This show hits the right notes for people going through the exact same things as the characters.”

Sabusap added that the use of puppets allows the show to push comedic boundaries in ways that traditional theater often can’t. “The ridiculousness of the puppets lets you get away with stuff,” he explained. “Everyone grew up with Sesame Street, the Muppets, or some Saturday morning cartoon. Avenue Q takes that nostalgia and completely destroys it—but in the best way possible.”

Mastering the art of puppeteering was a major challenge for the cast, but the results paid off. “It’s a challenge because I had to think of the mindset that I’m actually the character while I have the puppet in my hand,” Esqui said. “I’ve been practicing the hand movements for years now, to the point that it’s muscle memory.”

Robinson shared how the process transformed the actors’ connection to their characters. “We were taken to puppet school our first week. Everything you thought you knew about puppets—you don’t. But when you’re in the moment, you feel connected to this piece of foam and felt, and suddenly, it’s alive.”

If you’ve never seen Avenue Q, the cast recommends going in blind. “It’s Sesame Street, but for adults,” Jason Fisher (assistant director and stage manager) put it simply. “Also, theater is thriving down here in South Florida, and that’s phenomenal. Every weekend, you can see a different show. This is a special one.”

And if you have seen Avenue Q before? “Come see it again,” Sabusap urged. “In more ways than one. And so will the puppets.”

Hilarious, raunchy, and surprisingly touching, Avenue Q at Actor’s Rep is a must-see. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the show, it’s guaranteed to leave you laughing until your ribs hurt.

Avenue Q runs until March 16th at the Bhetty Waldron Theatre at Actor’s Rep (1000 N Dixie Hwy, West Palm Beach, FL 33401). Performances are on Thursdays and Fridays at 8 pm, Saturdays at 2 pm and 8 pm, and Sundays at 2 pm. Tickets are available at www.PalmBeachTheater.org or by calling 561-833-7529.