Center for Puppetry Arts to host enchanting events for boys and girls of all ages

Step right up! The Center for Puppetry Arts will kick off the 2017-2018 season with the anticipated return of Cinderella Della Circus.  The magical, circus-themed show will be supplemented with a number of applause-worthy, free weekend events to celebrate the high-flying spirit of the show.   The Center for Puppetry Arts will somersault into fun on Saturday, June 24 with a carnival to celebrate the show’s opening weekend.  Patrons can enjoy a bounce house, fresh popcorn, and a visit from our friends Bean & Bear who will be clowning and performing walk around puppetry and magic tricks. Cinderella is a pro at walking the tightrope, so patrons will have a chance to learn some of her tricks!  On Saturday, July 8, the Center will host Circus Arts Day.  Members of Atlanta’s Circus Arts Institute will be on-site giving lessons in tightrope walking simulations and scarf juggling. They will be joined by a stilt walker, who will roam the atrium on sky-high stilts.                            A sensory-friendly version of Cinderella Della Circus will take place at 1 p.m. on Sunday, July 9, to continue the Center’s ASD initiative.  During this performance, the following alterations will be employed:  theater lights dimmed down but not out, consistent sound levels and lower volume of show soundtrack, freedom for children to talk and to leave their seat if necessary, a quiet zone in the lobby and permission to bring quiet, contained snacks, and beverages.  These adjustments will continue into the museum and Create-A-Puppet Workshop. Cinderella Della Circus uses marionette puppets, including some that do special tricks.  Guests interested in learning how to use a marionette will get the chance on Saturday, July 15!  The Center’s staff of puppeteers will be leading demos and teaching an introductory lesson on marionette puppetry using hand-made scarf marionettes. Finally, the Center will celebrate the show’s final weekend on Saturday, July 22, with a truly sparkling activity – bedazzling!  In the spirit of Cinderella’s famous slippers, patrons are invited to bedazzle their own shoes.  The Center has partnered with Atlanta-area Shoe Carnival stores to offer a 30% off discount on a new pair of shoes.  Families are encouraged to purchase those before the show and bring them to decorate after the performance.  The Center will provide all the bedazzling supplies. All of these events will take place between 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. on the days listed and are included at no additional charge with an all-inclusive admission.  Cinderella Della Circus is presented in the Mainstage Theater, June 20 – July 23.  Reduced-price previews will take place June 20 and 21.  Show times are as follows: Tuesday – Friday: 10 a.m. and noon Saturday: 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Sunday: 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Tickets are $9.75 (Members) and $19.50 (nonmembers) – plus sales tax.  Tickets include admission to the performance, the Worlds of Puppetry Museum (with the largest collection of Jim Henson puppets and artifacts in the world as well as a Global Gallery) and entrance to the Create-A-Puppet Workshop™, where guests can make and decorate their own special Stretcho Rod Puppet and perform with it on our classroom stage.  Tickets are available online at www.puppet.org or by calling 404.873.3391.

Center for Puppetry Arts to host Jim Henson 80th Birthday Celebration!

Special activities to honor life of iconic puppeteer and visionary artist

A momentous occasion to celebrate Jim Henson’s 80th birthday, Center for Puppetry Arts will host a birthday bash on Saturday, September 24, 11 a.m. -5 p.m.!

Festivities will include a special guided tour of the Jim Henson Collection, Henson-focused story time, puppet building, Henson gallery carts with an informal Q&A with Center conservators, and will culminate with special film screenings of Jim Henson’s The Storyteller and Farscape at 8 p.m.

All activities will take place in and around the Jim Henson Collection in the newly expanded Worlds of Puppetry Museum at the Center, which also includes a Global Collection.

Festivities are as follows:

• 11 a.m. Special Guided Tour of the Jim Henson Collection
• 12:30 & 2:30 p.m. Henson-Focused Story Time
• 1-4 p.m. Fantastical Friends Puppet Building in the Center’s Atrium
• 2-5 p.m. Henson Gallery Carts and an informal Q&A with the Center’s Jim Henson puppet conservators
• 8 p.m. Screening of The Storyteller and Farscape

With the exception of the special guided tour and the film screenings, all activities are FREE with Museum admission.

Continuing its Henson-related programming on Monday, September 26, the Center will host a special Explore Puppetry Series workshop, Costuming: Puppets, Muppets & Mascots, with Bonnie Erickson of the Jim Henson Legacy, Harrison/Erickson, Inc. and Acme Mascots. Erickson was part of the original design team for The Muppet Show and is credited as the designer and builder ofMiss Piggy, now a part of the Center’s Jim Henson Collection. The workshop, for ages 18 and up, is from 7-9:30 p.m. The cost is $30 for members and $40 for non-members. Industry and student discounts are available with current student ID.

What:
A Jim Henson 80th Birthday Celebration

When:
September 24 & 26, 2016

Where:
Center for Puppetry Arts
1404 Spring Street, NW at 18th
Atlanta, GA 30309

How:
For ticket information, visit www.puppet.org or call 404-873-3391

Exclusive Jim Henson Lithographs Offered to Center for Puppetry Arts Donors!

The Center for Puppetry Arts’ renovation and expansion, set to be completed in fall 2015, will include the new “Worlds of Puppetry” Museum, featuring the most comprehensive collection of Jim Henson puppets and artifacts in the world.

In support of the Center’s expansion, the family of Jim Henson has commissioned master printer Andrew Mockler to create three original lithographs of Henson's striking artwork: “Conceit,” “Melancholy,” and “Hilarity.” 

Beginning in April, sets of these limited edition lithographs were made available as a thank you to top level supporters of the Center for Puppetry Arts’ expansion and its continued conservation of Jim Henson’s work, his legacy, and the art form of puppetry.  Through layers of color, each limited edition set pays tribute to Henson’s unique sense of humor, style, and high energy.

“The Henson Family is thrilled to have three of our favorite pieces of our father’s personal art recreated by a fine art master printer.  These images hung in our family home for many years; they are intelligent and wry, clever, and beautiful,” said Cheryl Henson, daughter of Jim Henson.  “As a member of the Center’s board of directors, I’m personally delighted to share this special printing with individuals who appreciate and admire our father’s work and contribution to the art world.”

Donors who make a new gift of $10,000 or more to the Center for Puppetry Arts’ expansion campaign will receive a collector’s set of three lithographic prints created by Mockler.  Each print will be numbered and embossed with the Jim Henson Archives seal, and each set of three prints will come in a portfolio with a personal letter from Jim Henson’s son Brian Henson and documentation from Henson archivist Karen Falk.  This is a limited edition printing of 100 sets, 40 of which have been given to the Center for Puppetry Arts by Brian and Cheryl Henson.

“These prints are just one more example of Jim’s genius.  He had so many incredible talents,” said Vince Anthony, the Center for Puppetry Arts founding director.  “We’re hoping that many donors respond to this opportunity to not only have some of Jim’s personal art in their homes but to also assist us in creating a home for his characters and larger body of work.”

Donors who contribute gifts of $10,000 before August 2015 will be listed as a founding supporter of the Center for Puppetry Arts’ new museum, in addition to receiving this set of prints.

Those interested in receiving a set of Henson lithographic prints should contact Amy Davis at Center for Puppetry Arts by phone at 404.881.5142 or by email at AmyDavis@puppet.org.

###

The Center for Puppetry Arts is supported in part by: Fulton County Arts Council • City of Atlanta Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs • Georgia Council for the Arts • Zeist Foundation • The Wish Foundation Fund of the Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta • PNC •  Aetna Foundation • The Coca-Cola Foundation • Regency Suites Hotel • WSB-TV Family 2 Family Project • YP • For a complete list of the Center’s major supporters, visit www.puppet.org/about/sponsors.shtml.

Kermit and friends are getting a new home at the Center for Puppetry Arts! The nation’s largest nonprofit dedicated to the art of puppetry has begun construction on a 7,500 square foot museum expansion. Set to be open in fall 2015, the museum will feature objects from the Center’s extensive global collection and will display the world’s most comprehensive collection of Jim Henson's contributions to the world of puppetry. The project also includes a major renovation to existing spaces, including a renovated entryway, expanded research library and many other upgrades that will enhance the overall experience for all visitors to the Center. For more details, visit www.puppet.org/believeinmakebelieve.

Center for Puppetry Arts® is a unique cultural treasure – a magical place where children and adults are educated, enlightened, and entertained. Since 1978, the Center has introduced millions of visitors to the wonder and art of puppetry and has touched the lives of many through enchanting performances, curriculum-based workshops, and the hands-on Museum as well as Distance Learning and Outreach programs. Center for Puppetry Arts is a non-profit, 501(c)(3) organization and is supported in part by contributions from corporations, foundations, government agencies, and individuals. Major funding is provided by the Fulton County Board of Commissioners and the City of Atlanta Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs. These programs are also supported in part by the Georgia Council for the Arts through the appropriations of the Georgia General Assembly. GCA is a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts. The Center is a member of Theatre Communications Group (TCG), the national organization for the American theatre; Theatre for Young Audiences (TYA/USA/ASSITEJ); and International Performing Arts for Youth (IPAY).The Center also serves as headquarters of UNIMA-USA, the American branch of Union Internationale de la Marionnette, the international puppetry organization.

Final Muppet and Henson Lots Offered by Puppetry Arts!

Items to be auctioned have been donated from Steve Whitmire's private collection of Jim Henson-related memorabilia gathered throughout more than 37 years as a core performer in nearly every Muppet™ project produced for numerous television series, theatrical motion pictures, television specials, and albums.  All “Whitmire’s Wonders” auction proceeds go toward the funding of the new Museum to house the Jim Henson Collection at the Center for Puppetry Arts^®.

Whitmire currently performs Kermit the Frog and for 23 years portrayed Sesame Street's Ernie, characters who were originated and performed by Henson prior to his untimely death in 1990, as well as Statler and Beaker, originally performed by Richard Hunt.

Whitmire's primary original Muppet™ characters include Rizzo the Rat, Lips the trumpet player, and Miss Piggy’s dog Foo-Foo from The Muppet Show™, Wembley Fraggle, Sprocket the Dog, Marlon Fraggle and Flange Doozer fromFraggle Rock, Bean Bunny, Flash and Waldo C. Graphic from The Jim Henson Hour, Andy Pig and Mr. Poodlepants from Muppets Tonight™ and Jake the Polar Bear from Jim Henson's Animal Show with Stinky and Jake, as well as dozens of others from various productions, including Robbie Sinclair and B.P. Richfield from the television series Dinosaurs and various roles in the feature films Dreamchild, Labyrinth, and The Dark Crystal.

The remaining Whitmire’s Wonders collection will be auctioned in three lots:  April 16-24, May 18-22, and June 15-19. Bidders may preview the upcoming lot at:

http://www.puppet.org/BelieveInMakeBelieve/whitmireauction.shtml.

Some items are mass-produced pop culture items, while others are incredibly rare and only released to those directly involved in various productions. Most groups of items include at least one item autographed by Whitmire.

Auction proceeds will benefit the Center for Puppetry Arts’ highly anticipated renovation and expansion plans. The project, set to open in Fall 2015, will include a new museum to house the world’s most comprehensive collection of Jim Henson’s puppets and artifacts along with its Global Collection of puppets. Project highlights also include a new library and archival space, a renovated entryway and many other upgrades to existing spaces that will ultimately enhance the experience for the Center’s visitors.

“Since it opened in 1978, Jim Henson loved and supported the Center for Puppetry Arts throughout his life,” says Whitmire. “Thanks to him, I’m fortunate to be able to not only have this amazing career, but to share in the legacy of his life’s work. I hope that by donating all of this fun Henson-related Muppet™ stuff to the Center for auction, I can help them    to build their future. I think Jim would have loved that!”

More information on the auction and how to support the Center for Puppetry Arts’ Museum Expansion is available online athttp://www.puppet.org/believeinmakebelieve/index.shtml.

 ###

The Center for Puppetry Arts is supported in part by: Fulton County Arts Council • City of Atlanta Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs • Isdell Family Foundation • Aetna Foundation •The Wish Foundation Fund of the Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta • PNC •The Coca-Cola Foundation • WSB-TV Family 2 Family Project • YP • Regency Suites Hotel • For a complete list of the Center’s major supporters, visit www.puppet.org/about/sponsors.shtml.

Center for Puppetry Arts® is a unique cultural treasure – a magical place where children and adults are educated, enlightened, and entertained. Since 1978, the Center has introduced millions of visitors to the wonder and art of puppetry and has touched the lives of many through enchanting performances, curriculum-based workshops, and the hands-on Museum as well as Distance Learning and Outreach programs. Center for Puppetry Arts is a non-profit, 501(c)(3) organization and is supported in part by contributions from corporations, foundations, government agencies, and individuals. Major funding is provided by the Fulton County Board of Commissioners. Major support is also provided by the City of Atlanta Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs. The Center is a member of Theatre Communications Group (TCG), the national organization for the American theatre; Theatre for Young Audiences (TYA/USA/ASSITEJ); and International Performing Arts for Youth (IPAY).The Center also serves as headquarters of UNIMA-USA, the American branch of Union Internationale de la Marionnette, the international puppetry organization.

All marks, logos, images, characters and elements are trademarks of their respective rights holders and are used here through the courtesy of The Jim Henson Company, Disney, and Sesame Workshop. © 2015. All Rights Reserved. 

iTUNES - **FREE** Fraggle Rock Friends App for iPhone & More!

*Click here to visit iTunes!

...and they keep right on coming!

Surf over (again) to the iTunes store (click on the picture above) where you can grab this wonderful Fraggle Friends Forever app by Cupcake Digital for **FREE!**

Now you can experience Fraggle Rock and all its hilarious fun in this interactive storybook. This story app includes tap-and-play animations on every page, funny special effects, and lots more! When the story is over, they can play games, color cool Fraggle Rock scenes and friends, and more fun activities.

*This 5-star app is compatible with the iPhone, iPod, and iPad and requires iOS 4.3 or later.


*Thanks Totally Target!

Inspirational, Celebrational, Muppet Craftational Event! The Disney Store!

To receive these deals daily, sign up for our **FREE** e-mail newsletter or subscribe via RSS. If you'd like a printable copy of this post, please see the link below. Thanks for visiting!

Visit your local Disney Store for an "...inspirational, celebrational, Muppet craftational..." event on Saturday, November 12 from 10:30AM until 1PM!

Visit the Disney Store website to find a location near you. 

This sounds really fun.  I love when the Disney Store does craft events!

Disney Movie Rewards - News & Updates!

To receive these deals daily, sign up for our **FREE** e-mail newsletter or subscribe via RSS. If you'd like a printable copy of this post, please see the link below. Thanks for visiting!

Some news and updates from Disney Movie Rewards.  Here ya' go:

• 'Tis the Season for Bonus Points! - Visit abcfamily.com every week day from 12/1-12/25 for a new code!
  
  
• **FREE** Movie Admission to see The Muppets! - Purchase an eligible DVD, enter the Magic Code, print out your **FREE** ticket!

Enjoy!!!!  I can't wait to see The Muppets!!!

Famous Disney Designer Noah Collaberates on New Muppets T-Shirts!

To receive these deals daily, sign up for our **FREE** e-mail newsletter or subscribe via RSS. If you'd like a printable copy of this post, please see the link below. Thanks for visiting!

What do you think of these?  Sweet, huh?

If you are like me, and you admire the work of famous Disney Vinylmation (among other things/items) designer Noah, take a look at these cool Muppets t-shirts he's working on to help celebrate the new Muppets movie coming out from Disney in November.  Very nice....

Visit wdwdailynews for the whole story.

HILARIOUS - The Final Muppet Parody Trailer - MUST SEE

To receive these deals daily, sign up for our **FREE** e-mail newsletter or subscribe via RSS. If you'd like a printable copy of this post, please see the link below. Thanks for visiting!

Hilarious...do not miss.....

*Thanks Disney Every Day!

Happy Halloween from Disney & The Muppets!

To receive these deals daily, sign up for our **FREE** e-mail newsletter or subscribe via RSS. If you'd like a printable copy of this post, please see the link below. Thanks for visiting!

In lieu of Halloween being just around the corner, and a new Muppets movie coming out, here are two great Pumpkin carving videos from the Muppets!  Enjoy!

Disney - New Muppets Trailer Released! Meet Walter and the Moopets!

To receive these deals daily, sign up for our **FREE** e-mail newsletter or subscribe via RSS. If you'd like a printable copy of this post, please see the link below. Thanks for visiting!

Wow...the Muppets are pulling out all stops in anticipation of their new movie, arriving in theaters on Thanksgiving Day.  If you think I'm joking, visit the Muppets facebook page where the Muppets are trying hard (via videos) to get one bazillion Likes (the videos are funny).

To help pass the time until Thanksgiving, here is the official 2nd trailer from Disney for The Muppets:




Love the "Travel by Map" button in the car...I can't wait until Thanksgiving this year!

Muppets - NEW TRAILOR! The Pig with The Froggy Tattoo!

To receive these deals daily, sign up for our **FREE** e-mail newsletter or subscribe via RSS. If you'd like a printable copy of this post, please see the link below. Thanks for visiting!

No words needed...




THANKSGIVING...

2011...

BE THERE....

The Muppets - New Video

To receive these deals daily, sign up for our **FREE** e-mail newsletter or subscribe via RSS. If you'd like a printable copy of this post, please see the link below. Thanks for visiting!

Check out never before seen footage of the, "Making of the Music Video" from the Muppets and OK Go! 

They've re-recorded The Muppet Show's theme song - together....Will Pepe finally get his close up?

Visit the The Muppets on Disney.com to find out...

Enjoy...very cute and funny!  Can't wait for November 23rd and the new Muppet movie!

The Muppets & Sam the Eagle Celebrate Memorial Day

Hello and welcome to my blog! To receive these deals daily, sign up for my **FREE** e-mail newsletter or subscribe to my automatic RSS feed. If you'd like a printable copy of this post, please see the link below. Thank you for stopping by!

I know it's early and not quite yet Memorial Day, but The Muppets have finally released their new YouTube video, just in time for Memorial Day.

Doesn't everyone love Sam the Eagle?




HAPPY MEMORIAL DAY!