Mr. Whatever

Each Muppet is a mini-masterpiece, blessed with the ability to — somehow — combine childlike enthusiasm with adult angst. This dual nature is especially apparent in Gonzo, who can gleefully zing out of a cannon one minute and brood about his love for Camilla the Chicken the next. But there would be neither circus tricks nor poultry passion without Dave Goelz, the puppeteer who brings everyone's favorite blue Whatever to hilarious, neurotic, wonderful life. Goelz visits the St. Louis County Library Headquarters (1640 South Lindbergh Road, Frontenac) tonight at 7 p.m. as part of the series "St. Louis County Library Presents Muppets, Music & Magic: Jim Henson's Legacy." Since 1974, Goelz has delighted kids and parents as a Muppet Master Performer. Relive Muppet history (or introduce young ones to it for the first time) during this evening of early Muppet Show sketches, commercials and more. Always wanted to know just what Gonzo is? You can pose that question during the Q&A session at the end of the program (although don't expect a definitive answer; even Gonzo himself seems unsure of his species). The event is free and is the perfect kickoff to a full program of rare Muppet videos, which will be presented at various library branches throughout November and December. For more information, call 314-994-3300 or visit www.slcl.org/events.
Fri., Oct. 1, 2010