September 27, 2024 Kermit was invited (along with his good pal Matt Vogel) to appear at University of Maryland’s Arts and Humanities Dean’s Lecture Series. This special event not only fell the week of Jim Henson’s birthday, but at the very school he studied and with with wife and partner, Jane Henson.
In addition to the sit-down interviews with Dean Stephanie Shonekan with both Matt and Kermit, there were Muppety performances by their School of Music faculty and students. Songs included “The Muppet Show Theme,” “Happy Feet” -which featured the School of Theatre, Dance and Performance majors, and “Mahna Mahna,” sung by their fun and talented jazz students.
At the end of one of the interviews Dean Shonekan, after speaking of the importance of the Muppets and their legacy of inclusivity and individuality, asked if Kermit would sing a song. Kermit called for a banjo-player and I just happened to be in the wings! After a few false starts (an AC/DC riff and the opening of “Sweet Home Alabama,” Kermit (on the edge of becoming unhinged) guided me to his classic song of self reflection, “Bein’ Green.”
After another chat with the Dean, Kermit thought it would be great to have everyone sing along to his classic “Rainbow Connection,” enter the student singers, Arts for All Director, Craig Kier and me with the banjo.
Hearing a room packed with 1,000 Kermit/Henson fans sing this beautiful song was something I’ll never forget. Knowing Henson Legacy members Craig Shemin, Karen Falk and Jim’s daughter, Heather, were in the audience- made this night even more magical. I’m forever grateful for Kermit’s heart, Matt’s invite up the ladder and Jim for sharing his talents and making this world much better than when he got here.
