The New Amsterdam Theatre
In 2013, Disney explored the idea of a Broadway musical starring the Muppets. A 15-minute presentation was held May 31, 2013 at Disney's New Amsterdam Theater in New York City to test the concept. The showcase featured 85 puppets, performed by eight puppeteers (voicing their characters live), and "a handful of sets", and used mainly existing Muppets material, including a performance of "Rainbow Connection" by Kermit. The focus of the presentation was to test the technical requirements of such a show.
The show was directed by Alex Timbers, who had pitched the concept to Disney's theatrical group. Thomas Schumacher (president of Disney Theatrical Group) reported that he was "very intrigued" after the demonstration.[1] Timbers previously directed the puppet-filled production of The Pee-wee Herman Show on Broadway in 2010.
Plans were underway to open shows all over the world, including in Germany. Artie Esposito, who performed Kermit and Waldorf in a 15-minute test presentation, was to have served as puppet captain. Development was cancelled after Muppets Most Wanted failed to perform well at the box office.[2] Russ Walko performed Floyd for the test which also included involvement from Peter MacKennan[3] and Debbie McClellan.[4]
Timbers later collaborated with the Muppets again, this time in a television context, directing the 2026 The Muppet Show special.
See also[]
- "The Muppets at Lincoln Center," Jim Henson's 1972 concept for a Muppet stage show
Sources[]
- ↑ Disney Theatrical Eyeing Muppets On Stage (EXCLUSIVE). Cox, Gordon. Variety. June 11, 2013
- ↑ Behind the scenes of Five Nights At Freddy's with puppeteer Artie Esposito | Sounds Scary 2023. 1:07:35
- ↑ Under the Puppet episode 100 (44:46)
- ↑ Episode 59 - Meet Muppets Mayhem Part Four: How the Sausage is Made (2:03:07)