I think that it’s a fair bet that if you’re reading this, you appreciate Jim Henson. (And if you don’t, why are you here?) And with his birthday coming up in just a few days, New York City is set to be the backdrop for an epic celebration of the man behind the Muppets… with a little help from the gang at ToughPigs! But in case you haven’t heard what’s going on this Sunday, September 22nd, we’ve assembled this handy guide of everything that’s happening:
SOLD OUT: Sing-Along & Stroll-Along with Heather Henson – 9:00 AM
Location Emailed to Ticket Holders
Join Heather Henson and ToughPigs’ own Joe Hennes for a walking tour of the city, stopping at sites significant to Jim and Jane Henson’s life and work. And be sure to warm up your vocal cords, because there will be music, games, and plenty of puppets, so sing out loud and sing out strong! After the tour, head over to the Museum of the Moving Image for lunch before the next big event. Tickets for the walking tour are sold out, but don’t worry, there’s still more to enjoy.
“Jim Henson’s Imagination Illustrated:” Exploring the Archives of a Creative Mind – 1:00 PM
Museum of the Moving Image – Redstone Theater
Craig Shemin, President of The Jim Henson Legacy, sits down with Karen Falk, Archives Director of The Jim Henson Company to talk about her book, which recently received an updated edition! Falk will discuss how she told the story of Jim Henson’s life with help from his famed “Red Book,” accompanied by rare video clips. Following the presentation, Shemin will offer Muppet trivia and giveaways! (Start studying Muppet Wiki now.) And be sure to get there early for a performance by banjoist extraordinaire and ToughPigs video host Lucas Ross! Tickets are currently available at the MoMI website!
Puppeteering at MoMI – 1:00 – 5:00 PM
Museum of the Moving Image – William Fox Amphitheater
Ever wanted to try your hand (pun not intended) at puppetry? Puppeteer Brian T. Carson will lead a workshop focused on the fundamentals, open to all ages and skill sets. And don’t worry, the workshop will still be ongoing after the presentation, so you don’t have to miss one for the other!
“Jim Henson’s Imagination Illustrated” Book Signing – 3:00 – 3:45 PM
Museum of the Moving Image – Museum Shop
After the presentation, Falk will be on hand to sign copies of her book… conveniently available for purchase in the museum shop! Isn’t that thoughtful of them?
Swa(m)p Meet: Henson Collectibles Marketplace – 3:00 – 6:00 PM
Museum of the Moving Image – Digital Learning Suite
Now’s your chance to build or expand your own Muppet collection! Vendors will be trading and selling Muppet and Henson memorabilia, as well as one-of-a-kind artwork. A portion of all sales benefit the museum, so don’t be afraid to pick up that Palisades figure you always wanted. While you’re there, come visit the ToughPigs table! Think of our poor closets and attics that are yearning to be de-cluttered! Coordinated by our friends from Muppet Stuff.
Dedication of the Jane Henson Amphitheater – 3:45 – 4:00 PM
Museum of the Moving Image – Museum Lobby
Here at ToughPigs, we’re fans of Jane Henson and the work she did. Without her founding of The Jim Henson Legacy and massively generous donations, we might not have The Jim Henson Exhibition as we know it. She strove to keep Jim work in the public eye after his death, so it’s only fitting that she have a space at the museum dedicated in her honor.
Henson Music in the Courtyard – 4:15 – 5:45 PM PM
Museum of the Moving Image – Kaufman Courtyard
What would a birthday party be without some tunes? John Koozin and the Neighborhood will perform instrumental renditions of songs from throughout Jim Henson’s creative worlds. And be sure to be there as everyone gathers to sing “Happy Birthday” to Jim, complete with cake!
So if you’re in the New York area this Sunday, be sure to stop by for a birthday bash like no other!
Click here to cut the cake on the ToughPigs Discord!
by Matthew Soberman – Matthew@ToughPigs.com
