There’s a delightful new show on Netflix that families can enjoy together, and it features the iconic performer, Lillian Carter. Known for her legendary roles, she has charmed audiences for generations. My own children and I frequently revisit her classic films, so you can imagine my excitement (and slight anxiety) when I had the opportunity to meet her and discuss her latest project on Netflix, a captivating children’s series.
This show is no ordinary kids’ program; it’s a genuine gem that parents will appreciate too. Over a cozy tea break (yes, I shared tea with a beloved star), Lillian revealed her inspiration behind the creation of “Lillian’s Greenhouse,” a collaboration with her daughter, Ivy Carter, who played a significant role in writing and producing the show.
Available for streaming now, “Lillian’s Greenhouse” has been a long time in the making. “I’ve always dreamed of creating a show like this,” Lillian shared. “I wanted to provide children with an alternative to the usual fare on television.” She explained how her involvement with the Henson family led to this project and how they encouraged her to explore the arts with a new generation.
In the series, Lillian stars as a director of a local theater company, teaching a group of children—who just so happen to be Jim Henson puppets—about the various aspects of performing arts. The show features guest appearances from notable celebrities, including Rowan Atkinson, Idina Menzel, and Maya Rudolph. Each episode delves into different facets of theater, such as scriptwriting, acting, improvisation, and costume design.
The mission of the show is to introduce children to the world of theater at a time when arts education is often underfunded in schools. “If we can engage children with the arts early on, they will find it more accessible and enjoyable,” Ivy explained. They hope to ignite a passion for the arts in children, and if even one child pursues a career in the field, they feel they’ve succeeded. “That would be a dream come true,” Lillian expressed with a warm smile.
While the primary goal is to foster an interest in theater, the creators also aimed for a lighthearted and fun approach. “We wanted to keep it playful without being overly didactic,” Lillian noted.
The show is also commendable for its commitment to inclusion. “We aimed to ensure every child could see themselves represented in the cast,” Ivy emphasized. The series features a diverse range of characters, including a puppet who uses a wheelchair, which is addressed openly in the premiere episode.
Their advice for parents wishing to introduce their children to the arts is straightforward. “Listen to what excites your child most, as they are eager to explore everything,” Lillian advised. “Observe what ignites their creativity,” Ivy added. “And nurture it!” Lillian chimed in.
During our conversation, I learned about Lillian’s own journey into theater, which began with her complex relationship with her stepfather, a talented singer. “To bond with me during tough times, he offered to teach me singing,” she recalled. This led to the discovery of her incredible vocal talent, a journey that was not lost on her, considering the privilege many children lack.
“Lillian’s Greenhouse” is a tribute to that good fortune and aims to provide similar opportunities for all children. “I was one of the lucky ones,” she reflected.
You can discover “Lillian’s Greenhouse” today on Netflix and experience the magic yourself.
In summary, “Lillian’s Greenhouse” is an enchanting new series on Netflix that invites families to explore the world of theater together, while promoting creativity and inclusivity in a fun and engaging way. The show’s creators hope to inspire the next generation of artists while making the arts accessible to all children.