Friday, March 25, 2011

The Philadelphia Zoo and the Jim Henson Company Present a Wild Puppet X-perience

On Saturday, April 9 the Philadelphia Zoo, in partnership with the Jim Henson Company, will present the opening of the first and only exhibit of its kind: X•tink•shun: A Wild Puppet X•perience.

X•tink•shun tells the story of endangered species with specially created puppet characters from Jim Henson's Creature Shop. The exhibit tells the story of endangered or threatened species with live theatrical puppet presentations, performances and other interactive elements. The narrative will be spread across various "Eco-stages" throughout the Zoo, each showcasing different characters telling visitors about the struggles of their species, as well as the threats facing other habitats and animals.

Interactive components include the daily “March of the Wild Parade” where zoo guests will march through the concourse among high-flying animal puppets to the tune of a specially composed song written and performed by Grammy award-winning artist Dan Zanes. Plus, the X•Clamation Station allows guests to create their own words and expressions of support to help leave their mark at the zoo.

The overall message is to appreciate and understand threatened wildlife in all of its incredible vibrancy. Where better to stake this campaign than at America’s first zoo? So this summer plan a trip to the Philadelphia Zoo and experience X•tink•shun.

X•tink•shun: A Wild Puppet X•perience
Where: The Philadelphia Zoo
When: April 9, 2011 to October 31, 2011
Cost: Zoo admission is $18 for adults, $15 for children 2-11 and free for children under 2
More info: www.philadelphiazoo.org