The Wynn Las Vegas announcement of the exclusive run outside New York closing also means the work will be released from its non-touring agreement and be able to be seen regionally. "Audiences and critics love Avenue Q. We look forward to sharing it with theatre audiences around the world," stated producer Kevin McCollum.
The decision to close the show came as a result of the upcoming 20-acre expansion development to the resort. "As we finalized our architectural plans for Encore at Wynn Las Vegas," explained Steve Wynn, "we realized that if we could convert the Broadway Theatre currently housing Avenue Q to the Grail Theatre for Monty Python's Spamalot, we would be able to most efficiently accommodate those new elements and meet the demands of our hotel addition. By releasing the producers of Avenue Q from their exclusive non-touring agreement, we were able to accomplish this architectural goal without having to invade our golf course real estate. Giving up the delights of Avenue Q was a very difficult, but necessary choice in view of all of the relevant factors."
Performances of Avenue Q began Aug. 27 and the show opened Sept. 8 for the new run at the 1,200-seat, $40 million Broadway Theatre — built especially for the production.
The show's creators Robert Lopez and Jeff Marx earned a Tony for their score as did bookwriter Jeff Whitty and the musical itself garnered the top prize as Best Musical at the 2004 Tony Awards. Jason Moore (Steel Magnolias) directed with musical direction by Gary Adler (Altar Boyz). The musical continues to perform on Broadway at the John Golden Theatre.
Avenue Q features puppets conceived and designed by Rick Lyon. Musical supervision is by Stephen Oremus and choreography is handled by Ken Roberson. The design team includes Anna Louizos (scenic), Mirena Rada (costume), lighting Howell Binkley (lighting) and Acme Sound Partners (sound). Tickets for Avenue Q at the Wynn, 3131 Las Vegas Blvd. South in Las Vegas, NV are available by phone or online at (702) 770-7000, toll free (888) 320-7123 or www.wynnlasvegas.com. For more information on the show, visit www.avenueq.com.
