GLBT Out Night: Bay Area's Willows Theatre Has a Night for "Q"s this Saturday with "Avenue Q"

Whatever type of "q" you are - queer, queen, QQ (queer and questioning), the Willows Theatre in Martinez has a special night for Q's this Saturday. They are having their first ever LGBT night with a special production of "Avenue Q."

"Avenue Q" isn't gay per se. It's more a fun musical about tolerance and acceptance. And those of you who think this show about puppets is for kids will be completely surprised as some of the shows most memorable tunes include "The Internet Is For Porn" and "It's Okay to Be Gay." If not mistaken, there's also full puppet nudity.

The Willows has the great distinction of being the first venue to perform the show outside of its Broadway and touring runs.

According to the Willows marketing director David Faustina, the have planned a very exciting evening, starting with a meet and greet with the cast at 7pm before the show with drink specials. Those who know the Willows Cabaret should remember that they often change their fun drink and food menu to coincide with each show - so what will "Avenue Q" inspire them to create - perhaps the "Okay to be Gay Cosmo"? You'll have to arrive early to find out.

"This is the first official LGBT night the Willows Theatre Company has done," says Faustina. "We are seeking to reach into our communities in new ways and believe that offering a special night will encourage stronger community building and relationships. As a fellow gay man in management with the theatre I am keenly aware of the benefit the gay community has on promoting and strengthening the arts and our contributions to live theatre."

Faustina also adds that the evening is filled with a fun raffle including prizes to restaurants, Club 1220 and a lot more. And besides having cocktails, great prizes and seeing the Tony winning show for Best Musical (beating out "Wicked") the evening will be hosted by a funny, lovable teddy bear-of-a-guy writer for GLBT arts for Examiner.com - hey, that's me!

This Saturday's evening at "Avenue Q" isn't just a night about puppetry and prizes, according to Faustina, as the Willows "will be donating a portion of all ticket sales to the Rainbow Community Center of Contra Costa County. The RCC provides service and support for the vast LGBT community in the greater Contra Costa Region, including support services for those living with HIV. The RCC also provides youth programs that help to promote healthy living and healthy relationships for the young members of our community."

"Avenue Q" runs through Aug. 1 but this Saturday, July 10 is the festive GLBT night.

Tickets sales are strong but it's an event not to be missed. Not just for good theatre, but for community building and fundraising. Go to www.willowstheatre.org to get your tickets now. Or you can call 925-798-1300.

The Willows Theatre Cabaret is at 636 Ward Street in Martinez, CA.