Henson’s ‘Puppet Up! Uncensored’ Blends Puppetry and Improv for Adult Audiences
Since 2005, “Puppet Up! Uncensored” has uniquely combined the puppetry style pioneered by Jim Henson with the spontaneity of improvisational comedy, fueled by audience suggestions. The show, created by Brian Henson and Patrick Bristow, continues to evolve, with recent performances at The Montalbán in Los Angeles.
A Night of “Miskreant” Puppets
“Puppet Up! – Uncensored” is designed for adult audiences, offering a raunchy and off-the-cuff comedic experience featuring approximately 80 puppets, dubbed “miskreants,” brought to life by a cast of skilled comedian puppeteers from The Jim Henson Company. Puppet Up! is never the same show twice, as the sketches are entirely improvised based on audience input.
The Genesis of Puppet Improv
Brian Henson, chairman of The Jim Henson Company, recalled the show’s origins in a 2006 interview, stating the concept arose from puppet improv workshops designed to hone comedic skills. The initial performances in 2005 at Jim Henson Studios proved successful, leading to an invitation to the 2006 HBO U.S. Comedy Arts Festival. Puppet Up!
Behind the Scenes: A Dual Performance
“Puppet Up!” presents a unique viewing experience, showcasing both the staged puppet performance projected on screens and the puppeteers’ operate in full view below. This allows audiences to witness the artistry and chaos behind the scenes, a deliberate choice to connect viewers with the performers and the craft. As Brian Henson explained, this approach offers a “double layer of entertainment value.” LAist
Puppetry in the Age of AI
The enduring appeal of puppetry, particularly the Henson style, has seen a resurgence in interest, potentially fueled by a reaction to the rise of artificial intelligence. Henson suggests that audiences are seeking “human craftsmanship” and “human artistry,” appreciating the tangible connection to a human creator. This renewed appreciation benefits all art forms, but particularly puppetry. LAist
Celebrating the Absurdity of the Human Condition
Henson describes “Puppet Up!” as a celebration of the “absurdity of the human condition.” He believes that puppets allow audiences to engage with potentially sensitive topics with a sense of innocence and objectivity, fostering laughter and reflection. LAist
A Legacy of Puppetry
While the show does not feature Muppets, it incorporates recreations of original Jim Henson puppets from his early career, alongside newer creations specifically designed for “Puppet Up!”. These historical puppets offer a rare opportunity to see classic scenes performed live, something that hasn’t occurred in decades. LAist