  The five parameter family of multivariable Askey-Wilson polynomials is
studied with four parameters generically complex. The multivariable
Askey-Wilson polynomials form an orthogonal system with respect to an explicit
(in general complex) measure. A partially discrete orthogonality measure is
obtained by shifting the contour to the torus while picking up residues. A
parameter domain is given for which the partially discrete orthogonality
measure is positive. The orthogonality relations and norm evaluations for
multivariable q-Racah polynomials and multivariable big and little q-Jacobi
polynomials are proved by taking suitable limits in the orthogonality relations
for the multivariable Askey-Wilson polynomials. In particular new proofs of
several well known q-analogues of the Selberg integral are obtained.
