Behind the Magic: The Jim Henson Company Celebrates 70 Years at GOMA Brisbane

Behind the Magic

A Rare Look Behind the Scenes

Fans of unforgettable puppetry, imaginative storytelling and beloved characters will have a special opportunity to discover how creative magic is brought to life when The Jim Henson Company joins the Gallery of Modern Art in Brisbane for an exclusive Behind the Scenes, Live! livestream.

The event offers audiences an insight into the making of a major new exhibition celebrating 70 years of creativity from The Jim Henson Company. From iconic characters to extraordinary creatures and imaginative worlds, the company has influenced generations of audiences around the globe.

For visitors planning a Brisbane cultural experience, the livestream provides a fascinating introduction to the exhibition and the remarkable work involved in bringing such a large-scale presentation to life.

Meet the Creative Minds Behind the Exhibition

Hosted by Australian media personality Sofie Formica, Behind the Scenes, Live! will bring together members of GOMA's Curatorial and Conservation teams with special guests from The Jim Henson Company and Jim Henson's Creature Shop.

Joining the conversation live from the United States, these creative and cultural experts will explore the stories, craftsmanship and behind-the-scenes processes involved in presenting the exhibition.

Audiences can also expect surprise appearances during the livestream, adding another element of excitement to this unique online event.

The discussion provides an opportunity to learn more about the preservation and presentation of puppets, creatures, characters and other creative works while discovering what happens behind the scenes before an exhibition opens to the public.

Celebrating 70 Years of Imagination

Behind the Magic

The Jim Henson Company has built a remarkable legacy over seven decades, creating characters and stories that have become part of popular culture.

The exhibition at Brisbane's Gallery of Modern Art offers audiences an opportunity to explore that creative legacy while gaining a greater appreciation for the artists, designers, performers, makers and conservation specialists who help preserve these extraordinary works.

For families, film and television fans, art lovers and visitors searching for things to do in Brisbane, the exhibition promises an entertaining and culturally significant experience.
Watch the Livestream From Australia or the USA

The Behind the Scenes, Live! event will be available online, making it possible for audiences in Australia and overseas to take part.

Australian viewers can tune in on Monday 14 September 2026 at 8.00am Australian Eastern Standard Time, with viewers in Western Australia able to watch from 6.00am.

For audiences in the United States, the livestream takes place on Sunday 13 September 2026 at 3.00pm Pacific Daylight Time and 6.00pm Eastern Daylight Time.

Visitors should check the official event page for registration information, livestream access and calendar details.

Plan Your GOMA Brisbane Visit

Behind the Magic

Following the livestream, visitors can experience Make, Believe, Magic: The Worlds of The Jim Henson Company at GOMA from 12 September 2026 until 18 April 2027.

The exhibition is exclusive to Brisbane and explores the evolution of The Jim Henson Company's extraordinary creative practice, from traditional puppetry to animatronics, creature design and digital innovation. Timed-entry tickets are available, with advance booking recommended to guarantee entry.

The experience extends beyond the exhibition itself, with free film programs at GOMA's Australian Cinémathèque and additional public and family activities inspired by the worlds of The Jim Henson Company.

For anyone who has ever been fascinated by the artistry behind a puppet, creature or fantastical character, this Brisbane exhibition offers a rare opportunity to look beyond the finished performance and discover the extraordinary craftsmanship that makes the magic possible.

Contact and Further Information

Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA)
Stanley Place, South Brisbane, Queensland 4101, Australia
Telephone: +61 (0)7 3840 7303
Opening hours: Daily, 10.00am–5.00pm

For exhibition information, tickets, livestream registration and visitor information, visit the official QAGOMA website.

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