Jim Henson’s Creature Shop Opens for Tours. Here’s What’s Inside the Once-Hidden Puppet Studio
Jim Henson s Creature Shop opens – Nestled within a sprawling warehouse in New York City, the creative minds behind some of the world’s most cherished children’s characters have long operated in the shadows, crafting costumes and puppets with meticulous care. For years, this secret workshop, known as Jim Henson’s Creature Shop, remained accessible only to those involved in its productions. However, the studio has finally lifted its veil, inviting the public to explore its hidden world for the first time this year.
The Art of Puppetry Revealed
Now, fans and curious visitors can step into the heart of this iconic facility, which is situated in Queens. The company has introduced guided tours that last 80 minutes, offering a rare glimpse into the craftsmanship that has brought beloved characters to life. Participants will not only meet the puppet builders but also witness live demonstrations of their expertise, all while capturing photos and videos of the creations that have captured global imagination.
Jason Weber, the shop’s creative supervisor, emphasized the significance of these tours during a recent visit. “This isn’t just a pop-up store or a generic exhibition. The level of skill here is extraordinary—each piece is a one-of-a-kind masterpiece, made by hand with artisans who’ve spent years, even decades, honing their craft,” he explained. The experience is designed to highlight the dedication of the team behind the scenes, ensuring visitors appreciate the labor and artistry involved in every character.
A Legacy of Iconic Characters
While the Muppets are now under Disney’s ownership, the Creature Shop has continued to shape the worlds of both the Muppets and Sesame Street. Henson’s contributions to “Sesame Street” include the creation of Big Bird, Cookie Monster, and other recognizable figures, while his work on “Fraggle Rock” introduced the whimsical characters of the Gorgs. The studio’s influence extends far beyond these shows, with a long history of producing characters for a wide array of media.
Jim Henson founded the workshop in the 1960s in Manhattan, and it has since moved multiple times around the city before settling in its current Queens location in 2009. Despite its relocation, the essence of the studio has remained unchanged, blending innovation with tradition. A separate workshop in Los Angeles also operates, though it does not offer public tours, focusing instead on behind-the-scenes production work.
Behind the Scenes: A Tour of the Workshop
The tours begin in a dedicated room designed specifically for visitors, showcasing real show props and creations that have been used in productions. This area is the only part of the visit where photography and videography are permitted, as many of the workshop’s creations are still in progress or contain proprietary elements.
Among the highlights of the first room is a striking display of Oscar the Grouch, the “Sesame Street” character seated in his familiar trash can surrounded by an array of fake garbage. The tour also features a menacing black throne from “The Dark Crystal,” Henson’s 1982 live-action fantasy film, and a full-sized, working puppet of Junior Gorg from “Fraggle Rock.” This puppet requires multiple performers to operate, showcasing the complexity of the studio’s work.
Throughout the workshop, the space is filled with fantastical creatures in various stages of development. From the corners of the facility, visitors can spot drawers and bins overflowing with colorful furs, textured fabrics, and pre-made puppet components. Melissa Creighton, the shop’s director, described the process as both custom and bespoke. “Everything we produce is tailored to the specific needs of each project, ensuring it meets the highest standards of quality and functionality,” she said.
Artists at Work
On a recent visit, the workshop was bustling with activity as staff prepared costumes and props for upcoming projects, including a new “Fraggle Rock” musical set to debut near Times Square. The energy in the room was palpable, reflecting the ongoing commitment to creating immersive experiences for audiences.
Sierra Schoening, a senior puppet builder, shared her perspective on the work. “Being part of this shop has been my dream job since childhood,” she said. Her favorite film as a kid was “The Labyrinth,” Henson’s 1986 musical fantasy featuring David Bowie and Jennifer Connelly. “I always wanted to understand how those illusions were made,” she added. “Now, I’m not just watching the magic—I’m making it myself.”
The tour also provided insight into the shop’s broader impact. Its credits include a range of diverse projects, such as the horror film “Five Nights at Freddy’s,” the children’s fantasy “Where the Wild Things Are,” and the 1990s sitcom “Dinosaurs.” These collaborations underscore the versatility of the team, who bring life to characters across genres and platforms.
A Legacy Beyond the Screen
The Creature Shop’s history is as rich as the creations it produces. Founded by Jim Henson, the visionary behind the Muppets, it has evolved alongside the entertainment industry, adapting to new technologies while preserving the art of handcrafted puppetry. Even after Henson’s passing in 1990, the legacy of his work continues to inspire innovation and creativity in the studio.
Visitors to the tour may also notice the seamless integration of modern methods with traditional techniques. While digital tools have expanded the possibilities for character design, the core of the studio’s identity remains rooted in the tactile, human elements of craftsmanship. This balance between old and new is a testament to the enduring relevance of the Creature Shop in an era of rapid technological change.
The tours, priced at $150 per person, are limited to Saturdays, offering a curated experience for those eager to explore the studio’s inner workings. Each visit is not just a peek into the past but a celebration of the present, where the magic of puppetry continues to captivate and inspire. As the workshop opens its doors, it invites a new generation to appreciate the artistry behind the beloved characters that have shaped popular culture for decades.
“Everything we do is custom. Everything we do is bespoke,” said Melissa Creighton, the shop’s director. This philosophy ensures that each project is unique, whether it’s for a children’s show, a feature film, or a television series. The tour serves as a bridge between the audience and the creators, allowing fans to connect with the legacy of Jim Henson and the team that keeps his vision alive.
As the sun sets on the warehouse’s walls, the Creature Shop remains a beacon of creativity, proving that the art of puppetry is far from obsolete. Its opening
