Muppets magic to land at QAGOMA in world-first exhibition

If you grew up with Kermit, Miss Piggy or the Fraggles — or you’re raising kids who now adore them — this is the exhibition Brisbane families have been waiting for.

From 12 September 2026 to 18 April 2027, Brisbane’s Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) will host the Queensland-exclusive “Make, Believe, Magic: The Worlds of The Jim Henson Company” exhibition, a joyful deep dive into the imagination behind some of the most beloved characters in screen history.

The Jim Henson Company exhibition at QAGOMA promises to transform GOMA’s entire ground floor into a colourful, creature-filled playground of nostalgia and creativity. Founded in 1955 by Jim Henson and Jane Henson, the Company shaped childhoods across generations with the Muppets, Sesame Street, Fraggle Rock, The Dark Crystal and Labyrinth.

Expect hundreds of objects on display — from original puppets and animatronic creatures to costumes, props, sketches and behind-the-scenes footage. In a world-first, visitors will even step inside the Great Hall set from the Emmy Award-winning Fraggle Rock: Back to the Rock, offering a rare glimpse into a working puppeteer’s set.

For Aussie fans, there’s extra pride too. The exhibition highlights local connections, including the Brisbane-filmed feature The Portable Door, Sydney-shot cult favourite Farscape and the Academy Award-winning Babe.

Opening weekend will coincide with Brisbane Festival, featuring special talks, screenings, and performances. Tickets go on sale from 1 June.

Whether you’re reliving your childhood or introducing your kids to the magic for the first time, this blockbuster exhibition promises pure joy — and a few happy memories — for families across Queensland.

Image: Production still from Fraggle Rock: Back to the Rock 2022–present / © Apple. All Rights Reserved / Image courtesy: Apple, The Jim Henson Company

 


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Search tags: Arts | Brisbane | Movies + TV
By Angela Sutherland
After spending many years hustling stories on busy editorial desks around the world, Angela is now mum of two little ones and owner/editor at Kids on the Coast / Kids in the City. She is an atrocious cook and loves cutting shapes to 90s dance music.

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