For more than three decades, “Sesame Street Live” has brought kids’ favorite characters, including Big Bird and Cookie Monster, from the small screen to life on the stage. Cast member Shannon Maloney, who plays Ernie’s sidekick, Bert, said it’s special to be a part of something that she loved as a child.
“I reacted the same way to ‘Sesame Street’ when I was a kid,” said Maloney, an Oklahoma City University graduate. “Our show has a lot of audience participation, and it’s really rewarding to look out and see them all with huge smiles on their faces. It’s like a rock concert for kids.”
This current production follows Elmo and his team of Healthy Heroes, who go on a quest after Super Grover loses his “superness.” Through song and dance, Elmo and pals will teach healthy habits of exercising, hygiene and nutrition. The tunes keep kids more engaged than just hearing someone talk about it, Maloney said.
“I really hope that little kids will walk away having learned these important lessons, even if it’s just one,” she said.
Shows are set for 7 p.m. Thursday, 10:30 a.m. and 7 p.m. Friday, 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. Saturday, and 1 and 4:30 p.m. Sunday. Tickets are $13-$50.
For more information, call 602-8500 or visit coxconventioncenter.com. —Courtney Silva
“Sesame Street” stars sing songs such as “Splish Splash” and “Sunny Days” for seven performances.
This article appears in Mar 16-22, 2011.