Muppets Return to the Theater, Disney Gives Permission for November Opening

After some time away from the stage, The Muppets are stepping back into the spotlight. Months after the closure of Muppet*Vision 3D at Walt Disney World Resort, Jim Henson’s beloved creations are making their grand return to the theater with a brand-new live production opening this November.

The Muppets Take Manhattan

Following weeks of previews, The Muppets will officially debut alongside illusionist Rob Lake in “Rob Lake Magic With Special Guests the Muppets,” opening at New York’s Broadhurst Theatre on November 11. The production marks the first time that Miss Piggy, Kermit the Frog, and their felt-covered friends will appear in a Broadway venue.

Walt Disney World Resort may have bid farewell to its Muppets attraction to make room for a Monsters, Inc. (2001)-themed expansion at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, but their stage return confirms that the characters’ popularity remains stronger than ever. From television and film to music and merchandising, The Muppets have long dominated nearly every entertainment medium — and now, they’re officially headed to Broadway.

The show, produced in partnership with the Disney-owned Jim Henson Company, combines Lake’s large-scale illusions with guest appearances from the Muppets throughout the performance. Lake described the collaboration to Entertainment Weekly as a “perfect marriage” of magic and imagination.

“The Muppets and I both live in that space between imagination and storytelling,” Lake said. “When they appear onstage, everyone becomes a child again — that’s real magic.”

A Dream 50 Years in the Making

Producer Joe Quenqua, who helped finalize the deal that brought The Muppets to Broadway, told Entertainment Weekly that the idea had been circulating for decades.

“The idea of bringing The Muppets to Broadway has been around for 50 years,” Quenqua said. “That we are the ones who finally have the honor of making that dream come true is truly humbling.”

Previews for “Rob Lake Magic With Special Guests the Muppets” began on October 28, with official performances continuing through January 18. The 90-minute show runs without intermission. Tickets are currently on sale through the Broadhurst Theatre box office and online via Telecharge.

The Muppets’ Ongoing Disney Legacy

While The Muppets are gearing up for their Broadway debut, Disney Parks fans have reason to celebrate, too. A rethemed Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets, inspired by The Muppets Mayhem, is scheduled to open at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in summer 2026. Disney has also promised to preserve the Muppet*Vision 3D film for future viewing opportunities, though no official details have been announced.

Have you seen a preview performance of “Rob Lake Magic With Special Guests the Muppets?” In the comments, share your review of the show with Disney Tips!