Avenue Q: Carla Renata to join cast on 16 Jun 2008

Carla Renata will play 'Gary Coleman' from 16 Jun 2008 in the musical Avenue Q. Renata assumes the role from Rashidra Scott.

Renata has previously played the role of 'Gary Coleman' in the national touring production of Avenue Q, and has appeared on Broadway in 'Smokey Joe's Cafe' (1995), 'How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying' (1995 revival) and 'The Life' (1997).

Avenue Q, the winner of three 2004 Tony Awards - including Best Musical, played its 2000th performance on Broadway 3 Jun 2008.

Avenue Q currently features Christian Anderson (Nicky, Trekkie Monster, Bear and Others), Jennifer Barnhart (Mrs. T, Bear & Others), Nicholas Kohn (Brian), Ann Sanders (Christmas Eve), Rashidra Scott, Howie Michael Smith (Princeton, Rod) and Sarah Siles (Kate Monster, Lucy & others).

The musical is about a charming yet rundown outer-borough neighborhood, where the residents - both puppets and humans - deal with everyday New York challenges like getting a job, falling in love and discovering their purpose in life.

Avenue Q opened at the John Golden Theatre on the 31 Jul 2003, following previews from the 11 Jul 2003. The musical is currently booking to 9 Nov 2008.

The show opened to terrific notices from the popular press in July 2003: BEN BRENTLEY of the NEW YORK TIMES says �eminently likable.� HILTON ALS of THE NEW YORKER says the show �has so much to recommend it.� CLIVE BARNES of NEW YORK POST says �Good dirty fun.� ELYSA GARDNER of USA TODAY says �warmth and wit that will disarm the most jaded grown-ups.� KATE BETTS of TIME MAGAZINE says �hip new musical comedy.�

Avenue Q is directed by Jason Moore and choreographed by Ken Roberson. It is produced on Broadway by Kevin McCollum, Robyn Goodman, Jeffrey Seller.

The musical has music & Lyrics by Robert Lopez and Jeff Marx, Book by Jeff Whitty, based on an original concept by Robert Lopez and Jeff Marx.

Set design is by Mirena Rada with puppet design by Rick Lyon, costumes by Mirena Rada, lighting by Howell Binkley and sound by Acme Sound Partners

Avenue Q won three 2004 Tony Awards: Best Musical, Best Book of a Musical and Best Original Score.