VIDEO: AVENUE Q Co-Composer/Lyricist Jeff Marx Reacts To Being Quoted At Democrats' Debate

It seems HAMILTON isn't the only musical politicians are talking about. After premiering Off-Broadway at the Vineyard in 2003, transferring to Broadway for a Tony-winning six year run, then moving back to Off-Broadway where it's still going strong at New York Stages, AVENUE Q is as relevant as ever.

The social satire that uses SESAME STREET style puppetry and songs to teach early twentysomethings some of life's harsher lessons was quoted at last night's Democratic Party Presidential Debate when CNN's Don Lemon quoted the musical's comical showstopper, "Everyone's A Little Bit Racist," to ask candidates Hillary Clinton and Bernie Sanders to identify their own "racial blindspots."

As evidenced by his Facebook post, Jeff Marx, who co-authored the show's songs with Robert Lopez, approved of the approach.

For those who require a refresher, here's a truncated version of "Everyone's A Little Bit Racist," tweaked a bit for television, performed by original cast members Stephanie D'Abruzzo, John Tartaglia, Natalie Venetia Belcon, Jordan Gelber and Ann Harada on THE VIEW.

Winner of three Tony Awards -- including Best Musical -- Avenue Q is the hilarious and heartwarming tale of a group of 20-somethings fresh out of college -- people and puppets alike -- who lives as neighbors on a street in New York where they've come to pursue their big dreams and search for their purpose in life.

AVENUE Q has music and lyrics by Robert Lopez and Jeff Marx, book by Jeff Whitty, and is directed by Jason Moore. Based on an original concept by Robert Lopez and Jeff Marx, with puppets conceived and designed by Rick Lyon,Avenue Q has musical supervision by Stephen Oremus, choreography by Ken Roberson, scenic design by Anna Louizos, costume design by Mirena Rada, lighting design by Howell Binkley, and sound design by ACME Sound Partners.

Photo: Walter McBride