Which lines will be changed for the character of Gary Coleman, depicted as a knowledgeable, but down-on-his-luck superintendent, have yet to be announced. Gary Coleman, the child star of the 1970s situation comedy "Diff'rent Strokes," died May 28 after suffering a brain hemorrhage. Danielle K. Thomas, who currently portrays Coleman in the musical at Off-Broadway's New World Stages, paid a tribute to the late actor from the stage following the May 28 performance.
The Tony Award-winning Best Musical Avenue Q began previews at New World Stages on Oct. 9, 2009, and opened Oct. 21, having concluded its six-year run on Broadway on Sept. 13. Avenue Q is produced at New World Stages, as it was on Broadway, by Kevin McCollum, Robyn Goodman, Jeffrey Seller, The Vineyard Theatre and The New Group.
The musical comedy with people and puppets focuses on a group of 20-somethings fresh out of college who move to New York City with big dreams and tiny bank accounts. The show has music and lyrics by Robert Lopez and Jeff Marx, book by Jeff Whitty and is directed by Jason Moore. It's based on an original concept by Robert Lopez and Jeff Marx, with puppets conceived and designed by Rick Lyon.
Musical supervision is by Stephen Oremus, choreography is by Ken Roberson, scenic design is by Anna Louizos, costume design is by Mirena Rada, lighting design is by Howell Binkley, and sound design is by Acme Sound Partners. General management is by Ken Davenport, Davenport Theatrical Enterprises.
New World Stages is located at 340 W. 50th Street in Manhattan. Visit the Avenue Q website at www.avenueq.com.