The puppet and human cast of the musical Avenue Q are busy bonding in rehearsals at the Forum Studio Theatre in Chester.

The challenging scenario of singing, acting and ‘being’ a puppet character is being taken up by a very talented cast of young performers from Tip Top Productions.

The big challenge is to make the audience see the puppet (some hand puppets, some rod puppets) and not the performer!

This Tony award-winning show, which first opened off Broadway in 2003 and has now been seen around the world to great critical acclaim, will be performed for the first time in Chester next month.

In this ‘Sesame Street for grown-ups’ the cast of three humans and 11 puppets (and their human handlers who switch and change puppet roles throughout) interact in a tale of real adult themes as they search for their ‘purpose’ in life .

The story centres around Avenue Q newcomer, Princeton, who is desperately seeking employment after gaining an English degree and his new neighbours such as Trekkie Monster who is addicted to internet porn; Kate Monster, who has ambitions to open a ‘Monstersori’ school, Lucy the Slut, Rod the closet gay and the Bad Idea Bears ( two charming troublemakers).

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This highly original and delightful show explores the very adult world of racism, homosexuality, love and relationships, unemployment, pornography and schadenfreude.

Featuring full puppet nudity, puppet sex, hilarious songs and heavy irony, this grown up show should be a big hit with all adults who can’t quite believe they’re grownup.

Avenue Q runs from March 6-15, at 7.30pm and a matinee on Saturday, March 15, at 2.30pm.

Tickets are priced from £7-ï£10 with under 30s tickets at £5 on Monday and Tuesday.

To book and for full details visit www.chestertheatre.co.uk or call 01244 341296.