John Tartaglia exits "Avenue Q"

Just in from Broadway Pulse:

Announced from the stage of Scott Nevins *Presents* Christmas Special tonight at Therapy was the newest addition to the cast of Avenue Q. Tony-nominee John Tartaglia is due to leave the show on January 30th and joining the cast as the new understudy for the part will be Broadway newcomer Howie Smith. As per Google, "Howie is an award-winning music and drama graduate of Carnegie Mellon University, has been a featured soloist with the Pittsburgh Symphony, and has performed with Marvin Hamlisch and the Pittsburgh Pops." More details to come as they're available, no specific word yet on John's replacement, but many are expecting current understudy Barrett Foa to get the bump up.

I am a HUGE Barrett Foa fan, so him getting the bump up is something I believe he deserves and will do an amazing job at. Still, I did get to see Johnny perform in "Avenue Q" and I am the President of it's Official Fanclub. Johnny will definitely be missed! Future plans haven't been announced but I can't help wondering if his leaving has anything to do with him being in readings for the Broadway mounting of "Zanna!"

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I had heard that when Avenue Q opens in Vegas they are going to have the original cast for the first 6 months. Does anyone know if this is true?

Actually I don't think it's true. From what I have heard they pretty much have the Vegas cast set. I do know that the original cast is headed out there in early January to help train the new cast in using the Q puppets.

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If ANYONE has the oppurtunity to see John by Jan.30th GO!
It's a performance you don't want to miss

Agreed. John is a MUST SEE.

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He's got some involvement in the readings for Zanna, but nothing for sure yet.

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Actually, if Barrett Foa takes over for Johnny as expected...Q is in very good hands. I am Barrett's devoted fan...the FOAnatic...and he is truly amazing at the role. He is definitely capable of filling Johnny's shoes. Of course, it will always be Johnny's role...but Barrett is the best replacement.

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If there's anything musical fans do well, it's worship the past, gunn. :)

No!!!!!!!! *cries*

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I hear one of the female understudies is also leaving.

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Actually Stephanie D'Abruzzo is rumored to be leaving this July when her contract runs out. That's what she told one of the fans in the club in a letter she wrote to them.

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Corine, maybe she too has found her PURPOSE

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JOHNNNNNNNN! NO!!!!!!!!!!!!!! you need to stay with q till you die! no!!!!!!!! ...but my vote goes to barrett...he's so awesome too!

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