Sid's Mid-Season Premiere

Young scientists, their parents and caregivers can get ready to enjoy 10 brand-new episodes of the acclaimed preschool series, "Sid the Science Kid". The new set of episodes will hit PBS airwaves later this month. In the first 20 episodes of the series, Sid and his friends explored science tools, transformation and changes, senses, and health. Starting on Monday, February 9, 2009 a new batch of episodes will premiere, with each week introducing a new scientific theme.

The week of February 9-13 will feature five episodes that provide a basic introduction to physical science and engineering featuring simple machines, like levers, wheels and pulleys. The five episodes debuting the week of February 16-20 will explore backyard science, giving viewers a chance to take a closer look at the nature all around them, including dogs, birds, bugs, leaves and dirt. This week will also introduce Sid's newest friend, Philbert, a dog Sid's Grandma adopts who will help Sid investigate animal communication.

Like all of the characters in "Sid the Science Kid", Philbert was brought to life using the groundbreaking Henson Digital Puppetry Studio, which allows performers to puppeteer and voice digital characters in real-time, creating an unprecedented level of spontaneity and warmth. For Philbert, an actual dog performed on the motion capture stage to record the body movements while Philbert's face and barking was puppeteered in real time by a Henson performer. The two images were then simultaneously composited together to create a single integrated character.

The Jim Henson Company also announced today that it has joined with Hasbro, Inc. to provide all sorts of "Sid the Science Kid" merchandise. The four-year license grants Hasbro the rights to introduce an array of "Sid the Science Kid" toys, games and other items starting in 2009; and Hasbro's plans to launch its collection of "Sid the Science Kid" products in the fall of 2009 -- coinciding with the one-year anniversary of the show.

"Sid the Science Kid" airs weekdays on PBS (check your local listings for details). You won't want to miss these spectacular new episodes as they make their debut. For more "Sid the Science Kid" fun check out the show's official website at PBS.org. And also be sure to check out our complete "Sid the Science Kid" episode guide, to see what the entire season has had in store for Sid and his friends, and what topics the young scientists will explore next. I will be sure to keep you updated with more information regarding this new series as things continue to develop.