Jim Henson’s Fantastic World at the EMP!
May 23-August 16, 2009
Jim Henson (1936-1990)—artist, puppeteer, film director and producer—created elaborate imaginary worlds filled with unique characters, objects, environments and even languages and cultures. His work is enjoyed in dozens of languages in more than 100 countries. Jim Henson’s Fantastic World offers a rare peek into the imagination and creative genius of this multitalented innovator and creator of Kermit the Frog, Big Bird and other beloved characters.
The exhibition features 100 original artworks, including drawings, cartoons and storyboards that illustrate Henson’s talent as a storyteller and visionary. Among the variety of exhibition objects are puppets and television and movie props, photographs of Henson and his collaborators at work and original video productions, including excerpts from Henson’s early career and experimental films.
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In order to make this fantastic exhibition work, the EMP is looking for volunteers! If you are looking for a volunteer opportunity, this one will be a lot of fun.
Mudgarden Muppets Interactive Volunteer
Volunteers will start training in mid-May and begin volunteering by May 23, 2009 when the exhibition opens to the public
EMP|SFM Mudgarden Muppets Interactive Volunteers have the opportunity to interact with the diverse visitors of EMP|SFM – specifically within the Jim Henson’s Fantastic World exhibition. Jim Henson’s Fantastic World is scheduled at EMP|SFM from May 23, 2009 – August 16, 2009. This exciting exhibition features a unique puppet theater interactive (named “Mudgarden Experience”), where children and adults have the opportunity to perform in their own puppet theater/tv studio. This theater illustrates the techniques used for performing with puppets for a television audience. Visitors to the exhibition have the opportunity to manipulate specially commissioned “Muppets” on stage in a manner very similar to the approach used by Jim Henson and his colleagues to perform the television series Sesame Street and The Muppet Show. This interactive includes 4 commissioned muppet puppets that were inspired by famous Northwest musicians.
Volunteers must enjoy interacting with the public and children and be knowledgeable on EMP|SFM’s exhibitions, history and specifically about the Jim Henson Fantastic World exhibition. Mudgarden Muppets Interactive Volunteers are stationed in Jim Henson Fantastic World, within the Mudgarden puppet theater/tv studio interactive.
Responsibilities:
Welcoming guests
Explaining and demonstrating activity with Henson’s process to visitors and offering tips for performing with a puppet
Operating video camera and show lighting
Monitoring puppet condition (and prolonging puppet life)
Providing basic security/safety to visitors and prevent “puppet nappings”
Providing general exhibition/museum information about EMP|SFM
Directing guests
Ensuring guests follow general EMP|SFM rules
Answering scheduling questions about EMP|SFM events and programs
Requirements:
Experience with children and families preferred
Enjoy interacting with children and families
Outgoing and friendly
Complete required training sessions
Commit to at least 4 shifts (each shift is 3 hours) – preferably, volunteers would be able to commit to a shift a week throughout the duration of the exhibition
Passion for music and/or imaginative literature and film
Available Shifts:
3 hour shifts (morning, mid-afternoon, and late-afternoon/evening).
Priority for shifts on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday
FOR MORE INFO: http://www.empsfm.org/index.asp
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