Once you see the look of awe spread across your child's face as the opening notes of the theme song begin to boom from the theater's speakers, you'll be pleased you took him or her to "Sesame Street Live." Since the show debuted in 1969, many pre-school series have featured characters that children idolize. But none are as long-lasting and deserving of affection as "Sesame Street." As a pioneer in children's educational television, its high quality has become the standard to which others reach for. Practically every young child knows his or her ABCs and how to count to 10 - in both English and Spanish - as a direct result of the show. And if you've ever used Big Bird or Grover to babysit as you take a shower, the least you can do is buy a ticket now.

In the newest live touring show, "Elmo Makes Music," Jenny arrives on the street where the air is sweet as the new music teacher. But she has no instruments! The loveable Muppets come to the rescue by creating their own instruments a la Stomp. They show the teacher that anyone and everyone can make music together, and no real instruments are necessary. The show features close to two dozens songs, many of them familiar enough for sing-alongs, like the classic "C is for Cookie." (That's good enough for me!) Afterward your child will likely talk and sing about the show for weeks, and they'll remember it forever. For them, to see Big Bird in the feathers is like us seeing The Beatles. It's a milestone experience.

Let me tell you how to get to Sesame Street: "Sesame Street Live - Elmo Makes Music" comes to the Auditorium Theatre, 885 East Main Street, March 14-16. Shows are Friday at 7 p.m.; Saturday at 10:30 a.m., 2 & 5:30 p.m.; and Sunday at 11:30 a.m. & 3 p.m. Tickets cost $14.50-$26.50 and can be ordered through ticketmaster.com, by calling 232-1900, or at the box office. Any way you order will be A-OK.