Over the years Jim Henson and the Muppets have performed amazing feats of puppeteering, doing everything from performing in a diving bell to custom building cars to get the shot they needed. But sometimes, I feel like it gets overlooked just how much Caroll Spinney in particular contributed to those moments.

First, if you aren’t familiar with how Big Bird operates, watch this clip from I Am Big Bird: The Caroll Spinney Story. Even the basic operation of the puppet is already a physical feat. But Spinney frequently went above and beyond, as shown by this list of stunts Big Bird performed. Ice skating, riding a unicycle, jumping on a trampoline…

For my money, one of Spinney’s most impressive feats of puppeteering is from the 1980 World Puppetry Festival. Spinney performed not one but two characters simultaneously (Oscar and Bruno the Trashman), while roller skating, while singing live.

If you’re in the mood for another fun clip from that festival, watch the start of this video where Fozzie grapples with his existence as a puppet.

Have fun posting!