Avenue Q – Shaftesbury Theatre

Avenue Q returns to the West End for a new run, and it absolutely delivers. Hilarious, sharp, and surprisingly heartfelt, it’s often described as Sesame Street for adults, and that comparison feels spot on. From the moment the curtain rises, the bright set, puppetry, and use of screens give the impression of a cheerful children’s TV show, making the show’s more risqué humour land even harder.

The story follows Princeton, played and puppeteered by Noah Harrison, a recent graduate trying to figure out life after university. Armed with a degree but no job, money, or clear direction, he arrives on Avenue Q in search of purpose, and somewhere affordable to live. It’s an instantly relatable premise, and the show cleverly uses its eccentric characters to explore themes of adulthood, identity, and uncertainty.

What makes Avenue Q so engaging is its blend of outrageous comedy and genuine honesty. The production is packed with laugh-out-loud moments, driven by witty writing and bold, unapologetic humour. The audience was consistently laughing throughout, particularly during standout numbers like “Everyone’s a Little Bit Racist” and “The Internet Is for Porn,” which balance shock value with clever social commentary.

The music is energetic, catchy, and full of personality. Each song pushes the story forward while giving the cast a chance to shine, and the live energy in the theatre makes them even more impactful. There’s a real sense of fun that carries through the entire performance.

A special mention must go to Emily Benjamin as Lucy the Slut, who quickly becomes an audience favourite. Her confident, mischievous performance brings a bold energy to the stage, and she fully commits to the character’s over-the-top nature.

Of course, the puppetry is at the heart of the show. It’s impressive to watch the performers seamlessly act alongside their puppets. Charlie McCullagh stands out in particular, bringing characters like Trekkie Monster to life with incredible precision. His physicality, facial expressions, and vocal work align perfectly with the puppets, creating performances that feel vivid and believable.

What’s most remarkable is how quickly you stop noticing the actors entirely, becoming fully immersed in the puppet characters themselves, a testament to the cast’s skill and the production’s direction.

Avenue Q is definitely not a show for children, but it is a brilliantly entertaining night out. Bold, funny, and unexpectedly thoughtful, it’s a production that proves growing up is far from straightforward, but at least you can laugh about it along the way.

Avenue Q runs until 29^th August 2026 at Shaftesbury Theatre with tickets available at Shaftesbury Theatre, London | Official Box Office

Reviewer: Zain Russell

Reviewed: 16th April 2026

North West End UK Rating: