The CHS theater program is currently working on the puppet show and musical, Avenue Q.  Through the use of puppets, the actors are given the opportunity to experiment with a new style of acting, while also comically addressing the problems associated with growing up and entering adulthood. The play is relatable to many high school students as it focuses on the challenges associated with finding one’s purpose in life.

Due to the controversial topics and inappropriate images that are portrayed in the original version of the play, the CHS actors will be performing a student version of the musical. This school appropriate version has censored some of the language and does not contain two of the songs that are in the original version.“I do not think the school production has lost any of the entertainment factor [because of these changes],” said junior actress Brooke Wetterhahn. “The production is very unique because it is both fun and mature.”

However, even with the changes, theater director Bill Garrett still does not recommend the play for children under 13 years of age.

In addition to the modified content, the actors must also adapt to the difficulties of performing with puppets alongside live actors. Students must adjust to this style of show by learning to interact, depending on their role, either through or with a non-human figure. The same company that supplies the puppets for the Broadway production will also provide these characters for the CHS show.

“The biggest difference is that the puppet becomes the character and [the actors] become the tool to help the puppet express emotion,” said Garrett. “For them to have to explore how to use the puppet and have that full spectrum of emotion has been a great learning experience.”

Special  assistants from the Las Vegas production of Avenue Q, Kevin Noonchester and Michelle Lane, are assisting the CHS actors. They specialize in puppetry and have collectively acted as almost every character from the show. They give students feedback and advice on stage directions and can relate to problems students are facing.

“I have been working with the girls one on one and [have taken the role] as a vocal coach and a puppet master,” said Lane. “For the students to get this skill early on is invaluable.”

Avenue Q will be performed March 20 to March 24 from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. with a matinee on Saturday from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. in the theater. •