Jim Henson’s Fantastic World, a Smithsonian Institution traveling exhibit, is coming to the Orlando History Center Feb 6 - May 3. It'll have 100 pieces of artwork, photos, storyboards, puppets, props, and videos from “Sesame Street,” “Fraggle Rock,” “The Muppet Show,” Henson's early career and experimental films.Two Related Events:
1. Grand opening with Heather Henson: Thursday, February 5, 6:30 p.m. A festive celebration in Heritage Square with refreshments, kids' craft stations and Heather Henson. $25 non-members, free for Members. Limited capacity. Reservations required for Members and non-members and must be made by January 26, 2009. (407) 836-7010, thehistorycenter.org/The History Center's self-produced events:
2. “Look Both Ways,” by Jane Henson: Saturday, February 7, 6:30 p.m. A behind-the-scenes look featuring seldom-seen video clips, the story of her meeting Jim in a college puppet class and starting out together working on “Sam and Friends.” $15, Members free. Reservations required for Members and non-members and must be made by January 26, 2009, at (407) 836-7010, thehistorycenter.org
Below are activities for families relating to puppetry, presented by Sonny’s Real Pit Bar-B-Q. Funshop Tickets: Adults $10; children (12 and under) $5; Members free. Date Night tickets: Adults $7; children (12 and under) $5; Members free. Reservations required. Call (407) 836-8580 to reserve your spot.Organized by The Jim Henson Legacy and Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service in cooperation with the Henson Family; the Jim Henson Company; the Muppets Studio, LLC; and Sesame Workshop. The exhibition is made possible by The Biography Channel. Additional support has been provided by The Jane Henson Foundation and Cheryl Henson. The exhibition is presented locally by Dr. Phillips Charities.
Shadow Puppets Funshop – Saturday, February 7, 10 a.m.-noon
Families learn to make shadow puppets and scenery to tell their favorite stories.
“Sock Puppies” Funshop – Saturday, March 7, 10 a.m.-noon
Families make sock puppet puppies with puppeteer John Kennedy.
Puppets from Around the World Funshop – Saturday, April 4, 10 a.m.-noon
Families learn puppeteering traditions and skills from around the globe.
Popcorn Bucket Superheroes Funshop – Saturday, May 2, 10 a.m.-noon
Learn to make puppets from popcorn buckets with puppeteer John Kennedy.
Family Date Night – Friday, April 17, 7-9 p.m.
Case of the Missing Banana, A Sherlock Holmes Mystery, Jonathan West’s one-man puppet show.