Avenue Q is an American
musical in two acts, conceived by
Robert Lopez and
Jeff Marx, who together, wrote the music and lyrics. The book was written by
Jeff Whitty and the show was directed by
Jason Moore.
Avenue Q is an "autobiographical and biographical" coming-of-age parable, addressing and satirizing the issues and anxieties associated with entering adulthood. Its characters lament that as children, they were assured by their parents, and by children's television programs such as
PBS's
Sesame Street, that they were "special" and "could do anything"; but as adults, they have discovered to their surprise and dismay that in the real world their options are limited, and they are no more "special" than anyone else. The musical is notable for the use of puppets, animated by unconcealed puppeteers, alongside human actors.