Quick: Who is the most famous banjo player in the world? No, none of those bluegass music stars. Not even Steve Martin. Everyone knows it’s Kermit the Frog.
The American Banjo Museum in Oklahoma City will be honoring Kermit’s achievement in banjo visibility with a new exhibit centered around the work of Jim Henson. On display will be a Kermit the Frog photo puppet and loads of photos and information about Muppet history.
The most interesting part of the exhibit will be the “Muppets Banjo”. Originally owned by British musician Martin Kershaw, who played it at Royal variety shows for Queen Elizabeth and the Duke of Edinburgh, the Queen Mother, Prince Charles, Princess Anne and Princess Margaret, Kershaw brought it along when he joined the studio band for The Muppet Show. In 1977, Muppet Show guest star Julie Andrews signed the head of the banjo, and Kershaw decided to continue the tradition by having it autographed by subsequent Muppet Show guests. Autographs from Gene Kelly, Roy Rogers, Johnny Cash, Elton John, Diana Ross, Peter Sellers and more can be seen clearly, especially now that it’s on display to the public.
Get a sneak peek of the incredible Muppets Banjo right here:
The Jim Henson exhibit at the American Banjo Museum will open on September 8th with Heather Henson in attendance for the ribbon cutting. We will keep you updated on any Muppet-related events that may be announced.
And now, let’s take a look at that iconic performance featuring a frog and his banjo that made all this possible.
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by Joe Hennes – Joe@ToughPigs.com
