Your wait is finally over! The Center for Puppetry Arts (the Center) celebrated the grand opening of the new Worlds of Puppetry Museum on November 14, 2015. This museum showcases the most comprehensive collection of Jim Henson puppets and artifacts. It also exhibits a Global Collection gallery of puppets from across the world.

The relationship between the Center and Jim Henson began with Kermit the Frog and Henson cutting the ceremonial ribbon at its opening on September 23, 1978. In 2007, his family presented the Center with a wealth of puppets and props that have touched many and spanned generations. Now, after eight years of hard work and millions of dollars, it is open to the public.

You begin your tour at a reproduction of Jim Henson’s office, complete with original sketches of characters, pictures, and awards. Then, you travel through it chronologically to see characters from show and film favorites such as Sesame Street, The Muppets, The Dark Crystal, and Fraggle Rock. The privilege of seeing over 75 beloved characters like Miss Piggy, Bert and Ernie, and Fozzie Bear is an unforgettable experience you do not want to miss.

“Housing the nation’s most comprehensive collection of Jim Henson’s puppets and other items in our newly constructed museum is not only a great honor for the Center, but it’s also an honor bestowed upon the Atlanta community, helping to further establish the city as an international tourist destination,” says Executive Director Vincent Anthony. “Our visitors will have the ability to explore Henson’s world like never before with immersive displays.”

Click on the video below to see a sneak peek of this amazing exhibit.

In addition, make sure you visit the Global Collection gallery with more than 170 puppets and relics from around the world. Through the use of vibrant backdrops and hands-on activities, you will learn about the history of puppetry in cultures from Asia, Africa, North America, South America, and Europe.

Tell us about the Jim Henson character you want to see on display by leaving a comment below.