Wicked alum Cassidy Janson is making a move to Avenue Q. The West End regular takes over the roles of Kate Monster and Lucy the Slut in the musical comedy, replacing Julie Atherton on October 5 at the Gielgud Theatre. The production recently announced its extension through 2010.
Janson's London stage credits include covering and playing Elphaba in Wicked and starring as Susan in the Menier Chocolate Factory's UK premiere of Jonathan Larson's Tick Tick Boom opposite Neil Patrick Harris.
Avenue Q combines a cast of humans and puppets who tackle subjects such as dating, racism, internet porn, being gay and finding your purpose in life. The show has enjoyed success both on Broadway and in London and is headed for a new off-Broadway production at New World Stages.
Avenue Q has music and lyrics by Robert Lopez and Jeff Marx, book by Jeff Whitty, based on an original concept by Robert Lopez and Jeff Marx; and directed by Jason Moore. The puppets are conceived and designed by Rick Lyon; musical supervision by Stephen Oremus, and choreography by Ken Roberson. Avenue Q's scenic design is by Anna Louizos, costume design by Mirena Rada, lighting design by Howell Binkley, and sound design by Acme Sound Partners.