MPT performer, board member, and props designer Steve Wright joins us for his 8th production! He plays repressed investment banker Rod in this summer’s Avenue Q!

What should someone who has never seen Avenue Q know about the show?

You have probably heard that there are a lot of R-rated songs and jokes in the show with puppets and people, but there is so much heart and humanity in this show as well. It's funny and real and I'm so excited to put it on for an audience!

Which Avenue Q character do you most relate to and why?

I'm so lucky to play a part that I relate to so much. I felt the way Rod did when I was afraid to admit to myself and my loved ones that I was gay... tense, wound up, ready to snap at any second, lost in my own fantasies. I really love the arc this character gets throughout the show.

What has your experience been working with the puppets?

So it turns out I really love being a puppeteer! It's fun to channel all my emotions, breath and life into the puppet and it's really nice to have something to do with my hands on stage!

What are the top 3 songs you’d put on a mix tape?

“Fantasies Come True” from Avenue Q, “Pancakes for Dinner” by Lizzy McAlpine, and “Hotel TV” by Lawrence.

What is your favorite line/song/moment from the show?

Everytime life gets hard or I'm in a tough situation, I play the last song of the show "For Now" to remind me that the hardship is only temporary. The line "Don't stress, relax, let life roll off your back. Except for death and paying taxes everything in life is only for now" is very powerful for me.

Why does it suck to be you?

Because this show has to end next month!

Don’t miss Steve onstage in Avenue Q August 4-13! Tickets are on sale now at www.middletonplayers.com/tickets.