75 years ago this Saturday, September 24, Jim Henson was born. And the following 75 years gave us some of our fondest memories, our favorite characters, and our most treasured experiences through his career and legacy.
So of course, this is a cause for celebration! But how?, you might ask. I’ll tell you how, friend! Come take a walk with me.
If you’re in the New York City area, you can visit the Museum of the Moving Image in Astoria, Queens. Not only are they still showcasing their Jim Henson’s Fantastic World exhibit, but they’re also holding an event titled “Muppet Music Moments” at 1pm on September 24, featuring panelists Craig Shemin, Bonnie Erickson, and music consultant Larry Grossman. Oh, and they’ll be showing 77 minutes worth of Muppet stuff too! Click here for more info on the event.
If you’re in the Washington, DC area, you can visit the celebration at the Jim Henson statue at the University of Maryland on September 23 at 1pm! According to the website, “The festivities will include remarks by President Loh, readings of Henson works by members of the School of Theatre, Dance, and Performance Studies, Kermit-themed treats, an appearance by Testudo, Muppet music, and a commemorative giveaway.” That sure does sound like a lot of awesome stuff! Click here for more info.
If you’re in the Leland, Mississippi area, you can swing by the Jim Henson Memorial and Muppet Museum! On September 24, they’ll be dedication a bridge to Jim and renaming it the “Rainbow Connection Bridge”. Click here for more!
If you’re in the San Diego area, you can go see The Dark Crystal at midnight on September 23 or 24 at Ken Cinemas! Click here (and scroll down a bit) for more info!
If you’re in the Atlanta, Georgia area, head on over to the Center for Puppetry Arts on September 24 for a special double-feature of Henson’s Place and Being Elmo! And of course, come early to see all the neato Muppet stuff they have on display! Click here for more!
If you’re in the Glen Ellyn, Illinois area, you can go see the Jim Henson Company’s Stuffed and Unstrung, featuring some great puppet improv! Adults only, ya hear?? Click here for more!
If you’re in Singapore (yes, Singapore), you can attend the Muppets, Music & Magic event on September 24, featuring screenings of “Muppet Music Moments”, “Muppet Fairy Tales”, “Commercials and Experiments”, and “Muppet History 101”. Click here for more info on this event.
If you’re in the Beacon, New York area, you can join your pals from ToughPigs for a special Jim-centric Muppet Vault at the Beacon Theater! The show is on Friday, September 23 at 8pm. Or you can take part in any of the events at the Beacon’s Puppet Weekend. Click here for more info!
And if you’re anywhere else in the world, I’m sure you have lots of options at your fingertips. Chances are you’ve got at least a half-dozen Muppet DVDs within reach right now. Of course, there’s also YouTube. Or why not try your hand (horrible pun intended) at building a puppet of your own?? I can’t think of any better way to honor Jim than to practice a little creativity and imagination of your own.
But before you go off and celebrate, here’s a little birthday comic from Jay Fosgitt, who created this illustration in honor of Jim’s 75th.
Click here to light the (candle) lights on the ToughPigs forum!
by Joe Hennes – Joe@ToughPigs.com
