Avenue Q and The Little Mermaid at the Merlin

The Merlin Theatre Company is busier than ever as they rehearse for two shows coming this season:

Avenue Q is a laugh-out-loud musical that tells the story of a recent college graduate named Princeton who moves into a shabby New York apartment all the way out on Avenue Q.

There, he meets Kate (the girl next door), Rod (the Republican), Trekkie (the internet sexpert), Lucy The Slut and other colourful types who help Princeton finally discover his true purpose in life. This show is proving to be a real challenge for the cast as not only do they have to sing, dance and act, but operate puppets at the same time, all whilst trying not to laugh!

This show is not for the faint hearted as it contains adult content and full puppetry nudity!   Winner of the Tony Best Musical, Best Score and Best Book, is part flesh, part felt and packed with heart and will certainly give the audience a fun entertaining night out. The show, directed by Kevin Withers is on 15th 16th and 17th October at 7.45pm. Tickets cost £10.50, with all profits going to the Merlin Theatre ‘Light’s Up’ campaign.

Whilst Avenue Q is certainly not for children The Little Mermaid certainly is. This year’s Christmas family show has been adapted and written by director Claudia Pepler, with original music and lyrics. The Merlin’s award-winning productions are always full of magic, colour and Christmas cheer, but their shows stay true to the original stories, although Claudia has managed to introduce a couple of crazy crabs ‘Nip and Tuck’ and other new characters that help the story along.

16-year-old Mermaid Tallulah is fascinated with life on land. During her visit to the surface, she falls for a human; the handsome Prince Edgar. Despite warnings from Grand-mer and her Father King Triton she is determined to be with her new love.

Tallulah leaves the warmth of her family and her happy life under the sea to make a Faustian deal with the Sea Witch to become human. But will she live happily ever after with her Prince, and what dark family secrets are hidden in the murky watery depths?

The show runs from 4th -12th December with ticket prices starting from £5.50. There are two dedicated schools’ performances on Friday 11th December with teachers going free. Full details are on the website, where you can also book online. Alternatively call the box office on  01373 465949.