The News Herald (Willoughby, OH)
Sesame Street Live! show a ‘Party’ with a purpose
Like the TV show, Wolstein Center-bound production has lessons to teach little ones
There’s something powerful about the “Sesame Street” theme song.
While the experience may be lost on preschoolers, years later upon hearing the lyrics “Sunny day sweepin’ the clouds away/ On my way to where the air is sweet/Can you tell me how to get, how to get to Sesame Street” elicits a magical feeling of excitement and fun.
That’s the emotion Sesame Street Live! “Let’s Party!” hopes to recreate for youngsters and their parents when the touring production appears April 7 and 8 at the Wolstein Center at Cleveland State University.
That’s also the memory and sentiment that led nationally renowned dancer and choreographer Melena Rounis to make her Sesame Street Live! debut as “Let’s Party!” associate director and choreographer.
“I grew up in the ’80s, and I just remember being happy and wanting to dance while watching ‘Sesame Street,’” Rounis said. “I was up on my feet and learning valuable things: how to count; share; why it’s important to be nice to one another; everybody is unique, and that’s what makes us special. Those are such great lessons.” said. “Along with the audience, we come to realize and learn what community is and the celebration and how unique the community is and how that can all bring everyone together and create a really amazing party.”
Rounis is a diversely trained dance artist and choreographer in styles ranging from ballet to hiphop. Her talents have led to performances in Cirque du Soleil’s “The Beatles LOVE,” as well as touring with Michael Jackson on “The Immortal World Tour.”
She’s also danced in feature films, television shows and awards programs such as “America’s Got Talent,” “American Idol,” “Latin American Music Awards” and “The Grammy Awards.”
When asked to describe whether there are more divas backstage at an award show or a Sesame Street Live! production, Rounis was tight-lipped with a smile.
“There are no divas backstage — I don’t know what you’re talking about,” she laughed. “I had a great time working with everyone.
“We really achieved a great show that’s appropriate for all ages and teaches valuable lessons that are relevant to everyone no matter you age.”
Considering Rounis’ resume includes sharing the stage with the likes of The King of Pop, Paul McCartney, Pitbull and Flo Rida, where does her working with “Sesame Street” rank?
“It falls really high, because it’s something I grew up with,” Rounis said. “I hold ‘Sesame Street’ near and dear to my heart. The opportunity to work with such a monumental brand was amazing.
“And the idea that this could be some children’s first theatrical experience, to play a role in that and helping to reinforce valuable lessons that they’re learning, it makes me feel so good.”
“Let’s Party!” finds Elmo, Abby Cadabby, Big Bird and the gang helping friends Casey and Caleb plan a party in which everyone has a different idea and a song to go with it. The program includes classics “I Love Trash” and “C Is for Cookie,” as well as newer songs “Spanish Me, English Me” and “Just Like Magic.”
“We have a new song in the show called ‘Put the U in Community,’” Rounis