Stage Write

"Macbeth" is currently on the Indiana Repertory Theatre's Upperstage. Macbeth is the latest in the IRT's long line of Shakespeare shows that work to make the Bard more accessible to younger audiences. The 90 minute show is brief enough to appeal to Shakespeare novices, without losing the meat of the play. The original language hasn't been altered, just trimmed. In addition to shorten the original play, the production embraces modern dress for the cast, complete with military attire for the men. The set is an original design by Gordon R. Strain. This is Strain's first solo run as a scenic designer and the stage captures the stark, yet restricted feel of the plot. IRT regular Jennifer Johansen plays the manipulative and ambitious Lady Macbeth. Johansen gives a mesmerizing performance as the voice of evil in her husband's ear. Her intense portrayal alone makes the show a must see as her character feeds Macbeth's desperate thoughts. Andrew Ahrens embraces

The lights go up on a shady version of Sesame Street, but this show and these puppets are not for kids. "Avenue Q" is on stage now at Clowes Memorial Hall courtesy of Broadway Across America. The show follows a mix of people, puppets and monsters that live on a street in a dodgy New York neighborhood. The newest resident, Princeton, is a recent college graduate hoping to find his "purpose" in life. The premise sounds innocent enough, but the show is an exercise in adult humor and hilarity. The musical numbers have titles like, "Everyone is a Little Bit Racist" and "It Sucks To Be Me." There is also puppet sex, which odd as it sounds, is pretty graphic. The talented cast, including Indiana native Carey Anderson, does a wonderful job. Despite being in full view of the audience, their animated antics add to their puppets' personality instead of becoming a distraction. Anderson has a gorgeous voice, showcased in "There's a Fine, Fine Lin