Of Sesame Street’s recurring characters, Mr. Noodle was probably the most beloved by children and parents alike. Played by the master clown and actor Bill Irwin, he looked like a fancy adult, with his mop of unruly curls, thick mustache, plaid vest, and oversized bowtie, and he silently answered Elmo’s questions with somewhat supercilious aplomb. How do you swim in water? Mr. Noodle demonstrated by confidently leaping into the air, breast stroking in place, gracefully flying above a kiddy pool, before falling into it with a splash. His charm and originality made for the kind of elegant buffoonery that characterizes much of Irwin’s work. This show, a gleeful conclusion to a dark year, puts Irwin back on New York City streets in a return to his former glory as a busking clown. On the listed dates, a string of 15-minute performances will meander between Astor Place and Madison Square Park. Accompanied by tap shoes, a drummer, and a new hat (Mr. Noodle wore a bowler), Irwin is sure to deliver his signature mix of sophisticated and silly. —C.J.F.

Performances are on April 22–23, 25, 29–30, and May 2