Home / Arts and Entertainment / Jim Henson Co. Explores Awe with New PBS Kids Special
Jim Henson Co. Explores Awe with New PBS Kids Special
30 Apr
Summary
- A PBS Kids special filmed in Sequoia National Park features puppets and real wildlife.
- The show, 'Wowsabout!', explores the science of awe and environmental appreciation.
- It's part of programming celebrating America's 250th anniversary.
A new PBS Kids special, "Jim Henson's Wowsabout!," filmed amidst the natural splendor of Sequoia National Park, uniquely combines live-action wildlife with original puppets. The production aims to introduce preschool-aged children to the concept of awe, fostering curiosity and a deeper appreciation for nature.
This half-hour special, created by Dorien Davies and Halle Stanford, is rooted in peer-reviewed science, particularly the work of psychology professor Dacher Keltner. It explores nature, music, and acts of kindness as sources of wonder. The narrative follows an exuberant hedgehog named Roxy and an orderly pig named Ronald.
Ronald, aspiring to be a park ranger, learns from Roxy to embrace nature over technology. Their adventures in Sequoia National Park, including encounters with local wildlife and ancient pictographs, emphasize environmental responsibility. The show also features a segment on migrating butterflies and the massive General Sherman tree.
"Wowsabout!" serves as a tribute to the legacy of Jim Henson and aligns with programming for America's 250th anniversary. While currently a special, creators hope it will lead to a full series, encouraging families to embark on their own "wowsabouts."
