Greetings, Muppet fans! Today is May 16th, a day that holds dual meanings in the world of the Muppets. First, in 1990, it marked the day we lost the vision, the magic, and the hero to many that was Jim Henson, who we all surely miss daily, but an extra sting hits and holds special poignancy today, even 21 years later. Today also marks the 20th anniversary of Muppet*Vision 3D, Jim Henson's last major project, being opened at Walt Disney World--and it is still, of course, still operating today.It was no coincidence that Muppet*Vision 3D opened today exactly one year after Jim Henson's passing. Disney opened the attraction on this day as to honor the memory of Jim and, perhaps, even showcase that his work will continue to live on. It's a testament to both Disney and The Jim Henson Company knowing that relations between the two were not at their best at this time, yet they still worked together to make sure Jim's last work was seen and enjoyed by millions of people.
It's extremely difficult to express what Jim Henson means to me and millions of other people all over the world... and I really think I expressed it best last year when I wrote up an article to help remember Jim Henson, and to talk myself through my own issues, after 20 years without him. It was coincidentally titled Remembering Jim Henson and I think it really expresses everything I could possibly express if I tried to write another article like it today.
And, of course, we are also celebrating Muppet*Vision 3D today so you should also check out my Diary of an Obsessed Muppet Fan entry that highlighted this magnificent attraction. Honestly, the Muppet*Vision locale at Walt Disney World is still the most Muppety place I've ever been to and the film itself is nothing but hysterical Muppet glory. It's fast-paced, it's witty, it's charming, it's perfect all the way from the pre-show to the exit queue. I'm so thrilled that such a testament to Jim's work and the legacy of both he and the Muppets still stands and entertains every day.Thank you Jim Henson for the love, the laughter, and the light... and thank you Muppet*Vision 3D for 20 years of entertaining millions of people with all of the above.
The Muppet Mindset by Ryan Dosier
