Today I had the pleasure of being invited to Thamescons Labyrinth and Jim Henson themed event.

 

This is my second time attending one of these events and love the vibe. These are real old school events. Where they are focused on the fan experience, the interaction and the craft of these movies.

 

This year’s guest of honour was Brian Henson - son of the legendary Jim Henson and director of many projects since Jim’s passing; most notably my favourites : Christmas Carol and Treasure Island.

 

I had met Brian many years ago but it was the main draw for me to attend today so I could add him to my poster.

 

I arrived and the first thing you see is this massive Manor House that they are using for the venue. Traders in marquees along a line and then the back hall where the panels and signings were happening.

 

The lovely staff banded me up and on I went on my adventure.

 

Entering the main building you are greeted by friendly staff and wonderful art on the walls. You walk through and come across the first of the props on display. These all look so amazing. The quality of these is top level and great for photos.

 

We all know I love a prop selfie.

 

Following through to the signing area. Although it was a small room it never felt over crowded. The guests were nice and steady.

 

The first meet was Jocelyn Stevenson who was a writer on Fraggle Rock, she was very lovely. Had a nice chat about the show and how magical it was and how it still holds up and hasn’t really dated like many things from that era have.

 

Kevin Clash - mainly known for Elmo, baby Sinclair from dinosaurs and master splinter from the original live action TMNT movies. What really shocked me at first was how deep his voice was, as many of his roles are of a higher register. He was very friendly and talkative - how Dinosaurs came about due to the work one TMNT but how they hadn’t realised how hard it was to make a show like that weekly.

 

Dave Goelz - the voice of Gonzo - the most amazing of all the muppets. This was my second time meeting Dave, he really is a kind and warm man. Discussed the new Muppet special that’s due on 2026 and how Christmas Carol was the must see Christmas movie every year and he loves that one too.

 

Finally Brian Henson, his signing was a limited and so busy as you expect. But it didn’t seem that long a wait and your time with him although brief, didn’t feel rushed. The team had the line working well and efficient.

 

Had a brief chat about Christmas Carol and he took the time to sign my poster where I wanted and he loved seeing the different items.

 

Because i had some free time I caught a few of the panels

 

The panels were and auditorium with a stage and then the chairs of audience raised above looking down. This is definitely a better way to host panels. No one is having trouble seeing the guests. They also had a roving microphone which was inside a cushioned cube, so it could be thrown to people to ask questions.

 

The first was Dave, Kevin, Brian and Louise Gold where they spoke about their time on the muppets and had such a warmth about them.

 

Brian announced that they were in early development for a Labyrinth sequel which had a good reception.

 

Tami Stronach - the child like empress from The Never Ending Story.  Her panel was sweet and funny and she came across really well.

 

There were themes workshops and other things puppet related but I didn’t attend any of those

 

Overall thoughts - I really enjoy these events. Considering I’m not a labyrinth fan and I attended for the muppets aspect only, that says a lot about how the event is run.

 

The prices were good with many bargains for autographs and combos.

 

The venue was lovely - but def better for summer as was bitter cold and they were lucky it was dry. But it was a good one.

 

I can’t recommend these events enough for fans of these franchises. Now to get them to get more muppets guests for next time

 

A solid 8/10