10 questions with the Cookie Monster

Pensacola, Fla., native Chris Blackmon has portrayed the Cookie Monster in “Sesame Street Live” since 2012 — enough time to get way into character. In a recent telephone interview, Blackmon, who trained in musical theater, alternated between talking about himself in the first, second and third person with equal gusto. “Sesame Street Live” comes to Intrust Bank Arena on Saturday and Sunday.

Q: This might sound like a strange question, but were you a fan of yourself growing up?

A: I was a huge fan of Cookie Monster. I mean, who isn’t? He is the best.

Q: Do you know that a lot of adults imitate your “nom nom nom” line?

A: That’s why he’s so wonderful. He’s so relatable.We all have that inside of us, when you’re really excited and enthralled by something. His choice is cookies, he loves them.

Q: But the Cookie Monster has adopted healthier eating habits, right?

A: He definitely loves all types of food. He loves vegetables, he loves whole grain and gluten free. But his favorite treat and food is cookies all the way.

Q: You’re the only “Sesame Street” character with five fingers. Is that because of you-know-what?

A: Of course, yes. He’s got to get those cookies.

Q: What part of “Sesame Street Live” elicits the biggest response from fans?

A: The biggest reaction is when we first start and and the cast floods the stage. The kids scream and go nuts every show. It’s so much energy; it’s great.

Q: According to “Sesame Street,” you and Elmo are two of the favorite TV characters of kids ages 2 to 5. Isn’t that a lot of pressure to live up to?

A: It’s pressure, but you know what? I love my job so much that it’s a welcome challenge. I do my best to give the kids and families what they want.

Q: What sort of things do children ask you?

A: Normally when we take pictures, they ask me where the cookies are. He always eats them before he comes to do anything. He has to have his cookies, even though he is learning balance.

Q: Highlights of the current tour?

A: We went to Toronto. That was amazing. New Orleans, Fort Lauderdale, Atlanta. Wheeling, West Virginia, was awesome. We stayed at a resort that had lights set up around the whole resort.

Q: How does Cookie Monster kill time on tour when not performing?

A: He likes to rest. He likes to do yoga, actually. He’s learning meditation and everything. He’s learning how to balance and healthy habits.

Q: And off tour?

A: I join bands. One band I sing with is The Shades, based in Pensacola and Gulf Breeze. They’re like old school R & B.

This story was originally published December 29, 2015 at 5:45 PM with the headline "10 questions with the Cookie Monster."