New face on the Avenue

Avenue Q the very adult version of a more well known children's programme based around puppets living on another street, is a very, funny musical currently playing at the Noël Coward.

The show has just announced an extended booking period until 28 July 2007 as well as the news that a new neighbour will be joining the eclectic street.

On the 20th November 2006, actress Naoko Mori will step into the role of the struggling therapist Christmas Eve, a part currently being played by Ann Harada. who is the only Broadway cast member to transfer to the London production.

Naoko is already well known in the West End and made theatre history, becoming the first Japanese national to play a lead in London's West End playing Kim, in Miss Saigon.

Her TV credits include Absolutely Fabulous where she played the best friend of Saffy. Other shows include Spooks and Bugs, and a part in the film Spice World. However all of these parts could fade in to oblivion by her role in Torchwood, the spin-off from Dr Who soon to be aired on BBC3.

Avenue Q opened in London earlier this year, following a much looked forward to transfer from Broadway. The story of the show centres around a young college graduate called Princeton, a confused and mixed up human who moves into a house on Avenue Q. A road unlike any other which is inhabited by a mixed bunch of puppets and people.

Living on Avenue Q, Princeton makes new friends including the porn-obsessed Trekkie Monster, a character called Rod who has issues about his sexuality and failed American actor Gary Coleman, who all help him on his journey of self-discovery and awareness as he struggles to find his purpose in life.

You can book your tickets for Avenue Q by clicking here