Been waiting all year to attend my first ever Bob Baker Day and it finally came around this past Sunday after being post-poned for a few months due to bad weather. Unfortunately, not even the puppet master has pull when it comes to controlling the weather. Tomato, tomato!! :'( The park was absolutely oozing chaotic, whimsical energy with puppets galore, vibrant costumes afoot, and every possible themed variation of clown that you could think of. I'm not them joking -- if you can imagine it, someone definitely DIYed it. I was in awe of all the creative outfits I saw because it reminded me of my music festival and raver days where I used to spend weeks making my own "outfits" if you can even call it that, hahahaha. It's nice seeing art represented in fashion and these folks were not clownin' around with their steeze! This was an incredibly delightful way to spend a Sunday funday at the LA State Historic Park. We took public transit over (shout-out LA Metro) and were able to catch the second half of the event. During that 2.5 hour window, we covered a pretty substantial amount of activities such as watching a Cirque School show, watching a Bob Baker Marionette Theater show, visiting various vendor booths, eating a picnic lunch, and watching as madness unfolded while the annual traditional pie fight erupted to close out the day's festivities! The free marionette show was probably the biggest highlight for my Bob Baker Day! There is something about watching puppetry and performers in an open air park that makes you feel like you stumbled into a fever dream. I even saw a few flower puppets that reminded me of the talking flowers from the garden in Alice in Wonderland! I feel like I went into this event expecting it to be an actual carnival with rides, cotton candy, and all the works, but it was actually more of a chill and family-friendly educational event. The main feedback I have is probably around event accessibility. I'm not really sure why the event was hosted so deep inside of the park versus closer to the entrance. We legit had to walk pretty far to get to the actual set-up and I feel like that would fatigue a lot of attendees, not even just the elderly guests. It was also pretty windy and dusty still, so I wish I knew to pack a scarf or bandana to protect myself from the debris being kicked up in the park. The majority of hydration stations also ran out of water well before the halfway point of the event, so that wasn't too great. Despite this, I still had a lot of fun and I'm looking forward to checking out next year's event and hopefully being able to join for a larger chunk of the festivities in the future! read more

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I took my toddler here and it was her first show experience with lights and her watching a stage. I think she enjoyed it, but snacks did help during the show. They also offer ice cream after the show. If your child sits in the front they get a chance to see the puppets up close. There is street/residential parking. I love that there is a park across the street so I took her there before the show. The music and puppets were very intriguing. read more

Visit August 2026 This was a super fun and cute visit. Attended the birthday for my cousin's 1-year old boy. My cousin had strong happy memories of visiting Bob Baker Marionette Theater when she was young so ta-dah! Tbh, I had never heard of this place. Tbh, I was very curious how this generation of young kids, who are raised with cell phones and tablets would be engaged in this live puppet based presentation. I mean, I recall watching marionettes live at fairs and even on tv when I was a kid (Thunderbirds anybody?) but I was born in the 70's. BBMT pulled it off! The show, centered around a train journey, kept at least 30 kids (ranging from 1 to at least 10 years) laughing, clapping, "oohing" and "aahing". No crying or kids having to be entertained by their parents' cell phone because they had tuned out. The puppeteers did a fantastic job. You can tell they put in a large amount of work. Each scene was a super fast transition. They definitely got their exercise. Each song was catchy. There was a live organist as a pre-show as the theater filled up. Total nostalgia songs. Started tearing up when he broke out "Rainbow Connection." Theater staff were super welcoming and patient with the kids. Highly recommend for you parents out there for a unique experience to share with your child's r. read more

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Caleb, the director of operations + team were absolutely wonderful to work with. Highly recommend setting an appointment and coordinating your events here at the Bob Baker Marionette Theater. The professionalism, execution, was unmatched. Phenomenal experience, beautiful theatre and space, charming actors/puppeteers. This Theater is magical in the best way, support Bob Baker Marionette Theater, you will not be disappointed! I don't think anyone blinked during the show. The theater captivated all 125 guests, everyone was enchanted. Wonderful space for children and adults alike. I cannot recommend supporting this special place enough! read more

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I can't say enough great things about this theater. I first saw a performance at the Griffith park and now attend every season of their shows at the theater. I tell everyone to go here if they want to experience a magical time. I always bring my family and they always love it. We recently saw the new Choo Choo Revue show which was so great. They also have a great gift shop with amazingly designed merch where my sister and I spend our money after each show. If your inner child is still alive and you love whimsy, I highly recommend coming here. You'll keep coming back. read more

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How many of you out there can can you've been to a marionette show? Put this on your list of things you have done and that you're glad you did it. I'd never been to one before but had a chance to go with a group that was going. What the heck, a new life experience, and it turned out to be a good one. The Bob Baker Marionette Theater is the longest continuously running puppet theater in the USA. It's a non-profit organization, so that's even more reason to support it! It was a wonderful experience. We saw the Winter Wonderland show. They change the shows throughout the year. The show is super family-friendly, and "children of all ages" will thoroughly enjoy it. I was really impressed with how tight the show was. Each scene was about three minutes long (it seemed) and there were no gaps, just non-stop marionette action. I have no idea how they keep track of everything backstage. My hats off to the entire crew for keeping it all together and putting on a seamless show. You can meet the puppeteers before and after the show. They are so nice and uber talented! It's a small theater. Not a bad seat in the house. There are even tables and chairs in the back part of the theater. There are pillows on the floor right at stage level for the kids so they get the best view possible. Also, there's a gift shop that helps support the theater. Very reasonable prices. Credit cards only. You've got to do it. At least once! ...and then you're probably going back again...bringing some new friends along to enjoy the experience! You want another reason to go? They gave us free ice cream after the show!! read more

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What a delightful escape from the world. Fun for all ages I love that they do birthday shoutouts read more

I'm going to preface this by saying I LOVED puppets and marionettes as a kid. Sesame Street and Mr. Roger's Neighborhood were instrumental in my childhood. I wish I would've had the opportunity to come here as a child. I came for the first time as an adult and I was awe struck by how cute and whimsical this place is. If I were a parent, I would totally rent this out for my child's bday party. There's limited proper seating, and if you're coming with kids, you can sit on the ground on floor cushions (that way you can be at eye level with the marionettes). My friends and I had a great time seeing Melissa Villaseñor and her pals here. I definitely wanna come back and see what Bob Baker does for Halloween. They also have post-show ice cream, which is such a sweet touch (no pun intended). Unmetered street parking is available, and you can walk around the lovely Highland Park and Eagle Rock area for a delicious bite to eat afterwards. read more

Bob Baker Marionette Theater - There are a few rows of seats inside the theater - Performing Arts Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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I'm rating this theater strictly off my 4 year old son's field trip reaction. I did not get to chaperone and attend the field trip. But he loved this place and has not stopped talking about it. He told me his favorite characters and has asked us to take him again. Very cool that's this is a local spot. read more

Bob Baker Marionette Theater - Exterior - Performing Arts Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Wow, it's definitely a unique experience that maybe only LA could offer. I have never seen anything like it. Its a bit more geared to kids, but as an adult I really enjoyed it. I'd still go if I didn't have my toddler. Its such an art and a skill to be a puppeteer. I really admire these young people. The little ones can sit up close on the floor where the marionettes come up to them. It wasnt hard to see anything from the seats. Everything was close up. Only things I weren't crazy about is that it was a bit run down and the staff were a far cry from energetic. Not sure if puppeteers are supposed to be more neutral in the background, but a little energy would have made the experience so much better. My thought about that is perhaps they dont have enough business coming in. I dont know if it will close, like so many small business have, so I had to go to support, looked fun, and my toddler loved it! read more

I like that this is old school theater geared ro kids, but adults get a huge kick out of it too. Parking is rough, especially for handicapped. So go early or get a ride. read more

We booked tickets to take our two small children to the Circus show. What an absolute delight this was! We got some floor seats and some chairs behind and it was perfect for us! Our kids were completely entertained & enchanted by the show. Such an array of marionettes were used and each one was so special. After the show (it was about an hour), they served ice cream sundae cups to all of the guests! My kids are already asking to go back ASAP! read more

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Always a good time! And there's ice cream at the end! Arrive with plenty of time to find parking in (this very popular) neighborhood - it could take a couple of laps to find a spot. read more

Step inside the Bob Baker Marionette Theater and invite whimsy, joy, and childlike wonder into your heart. There's something so heartwarming and wholesome about seeing a bunch of people of all ages having fun and smiling during these performances. I always get a tiny bit emotional at the collective effervescence in this place. At the beginning of their Winter Wonderland Holiday Special, one of the marionettes tells you to "let the outside world fade away" while you're enjoying the show - and im pleased to say it's so easy to do that while these marionettes are dancing and frolicking in front of you. If you're on the fence about getting tickets to a show, just do yourself a favor and get them. The shows are always so well done, with my favorite being the Halloween Spooktacular. The performances range from funny to heartwarming to a tiny bit racy, with a particular black or pink cat and her hijinks among the audience. Speaking of the audience, if you sit in the very first row, the marionettes may come up to you and sit in your lap, take your hat off, or even shimmy in your face. It's different every show and it's always fun to see the audience reactions. If it's not obvious from my review, I love it here and hope they're around forever. read more

Probably my favorite place in Los Angeles. Truly this place goes beyondddd 5 stars. It is an exceptional, fun, enjoyable, happy, all is great in the world experience. My wife and I have been to Bob Baker Marionette Theater around 10 times now and everytime we go, we are so happy we decided to turn it into a night! I wish I lived in Los Angeles as a child so I could have come here as a kid. I feel like there isn't anything like this anywhere in LA quite like Bob Baker theater. Okay sooo... Every show is PERFECT. We have seen the Halloween Spooktacular, the holiday show, a few bands perform here, and recently the Simpsons Treehouse of Horror table read. How cool is that?! Bob Baker's marionette puppets are so dang cute, shockingly real looking, and UNIQUE. Every show is carefully thought out, and you feel like the puppeteers are enjoying what they're doing so much. It is so cool to be here enjoying any show - also the lighting is perfect as well! Pros: easy parking, seat or floor seat option, ice cream after each show, performers that are enjoying themselves, magical vibes throughout, original atmosphere, feeling like a kid again. 1 con and that is the 2 bathroom thing but hey, there are a ton of places that rock with only 2 bathrooms. This place is a gem! Can't wait to go back again! Oh ya - once they allowed us to go back stage and see ALL of the puppets. OMG this was a spectacular experience. :) Bob Baker is always creating magical vibes. Just go to any show as many times as you can and don't think twice about it! read more

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Loved this place so much fun would take my daughter back anytime. We went on a school field trip amazing experience read more

One of the more unique experiences we've had in Los Angeles. You truly travel back in time and feel like a kid all over again. We were probably one of the only creeper couples who showed up without children, but nobody judged us. The decor down to the flower designs on the lobby floor and the signs for the restrooms was straight out of a 1950's circus museum, but it was all functional. It was very whimsical and safe without exuding horror movie doll vibes. The puppeteers also take your tickets and welcome you into the theater. They are awesome kindergarten teacher/Mom energy. They do an outstanding job corralling tons of kids and nervous bday party energy. They are decked out in head to toe fire engine red clothing (even belts and shoes), which I didn't get why at first, but afterwards I saw it was to blend seamlessly into the background of the red carpet and stage curtains. The show was just amazing. We felt like we were witnessing an ancient art and were transported to a different world and time. In a world of Tik Tok videos, iPads, and push notifications, it was a welcomed change and break from technology. I was pretty astonished at just how captivated we were. You truly are entertained by what these puppets are doing in their little world and what might be coming out next. Some Tips: Parking can be found free on York or in the neighborhoods behind the theater. The real seats are better for adults and the pads on the ground are best for the little ones (or adults holding little ones). Sitting criss cross apple sauce for over 30 min would be hard for me to pull off. Plus, the puppets will walk up and touch your face or shake your hand if you are in the front rows, and kids just love it. read more

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It's magical place. I'm so happy there are still places like this. And for people of all ages. Must go! I'm sure we'll come back read more

A beautiful little theater with amazing shows and puppets! Theres a lot of heart in this place, it's clear to see. I went with three friends, and all of us (being in our 20's) had a great time! Im looking forward to coming back. read more

A big group of us bought tickets for the Halloween Spooktacular back in September. You get to choose your seats at time of purchase. It was fun! The performance lasted about an hour. There were many different Spooky characters & fun songs. And we all got ice cream afterwards! The only criticism I have is that I wish they performed on an elevated stage. It would have been better to see it all over the children's heads on the same level as the seats. read more

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This review is only for the Halloween Spooktacular, but man I love this place. The show is so cleverly done and they throw in some nice Easter eggs into it. My girlfriend and I could not stop smiling, it was cute, it was funny and it was really well done. Please remember this is a non-profit and they just want to keep the theater alive so if you go, buy something from the gift shop or make a donation let's not lose the little fun things we have still to keep us happy. read more

What a unique experience! You can tell the performers have lovingly curated their skill and uphold the highest standards for this traditional art. The puppeteers run the whole show from greeting and seating guests, setting up the stage, and MCing. Children wanting an up close experience can sit on the floor along the edges of the stage area. After the show they treat everyone to ice cream. read more

Bob Baker Marionette Theater - Performing Arts Near Me - Los Angeles, California

One million stars!! What a charming and beautiful little theatre in Highland Park. A magical place that truly transports you to a bygone era, honoring the art of puppetry and classic children's entertainment. Everything about the experience of this theatre sparkles with nostalgia and a happy vintage aesthetic (think colorful, mid-century "It's A Small World" vibes). Very cute gift shop and lovely staff at this nonprofit theatre. From the puppeteers' all-red outfits to the adorable daisy-tiled entrance, every detail is simply delightful! Kids, parents and child-free millennial friend groups alike were absolutely having the time of their lives. A must see in LA! read more

Bob Baker Marionette Theater - Puppeteers onstage - Performing Arts Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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The programming at Bob Baker, the puppeteers, the history.. this is the kind of thing that makes me forever grateful to somehow be living here in Los Angeles. I'm a Jersey girl (shhh) and I never had the experience of going here as a child, but I was fortunate enough to receive an invitation to The Circus show in 2016 and since then we've never looked back. We loved the old downtown theater and couldn't believe when we heard they were moving even closer to where we live, right in Highland Park. One of my daughter's first two words she put together were, "Puppet Cat" and we are her die hard fans to this day. A poster of her hangs over my now 7 year old's bed, she's visited our local elementary school, and we now have a signed photo of her (thank you Diego!!! you are really kind and an incredible Black Cat puppeteer!) because Bob Baker's team can spot a die hard fan. I love the puppeteers here, they are kind, cool, imaginative people who can get down on your child's developmental level and create the most thrilling memories. They also have the magical ability to pull adults back into their own childhood, which is pretty healing tbh for anyone with an inner child that yearns for this kind of make believe/anything is possible feeling. If you have the chance to see the Halloween Spooktacular do it. There isn't a bad show out there but there is something extra special about Halloween at Bob Baker. Thank you for so many wonderful memories; my youngest daughter turning 4 & receiving a gift from Happy, when Black Cat sat on my husband's lap once and serenaded him for 30 seconds, all the smiles on my kid's faces whether it was at the Eagle Rock Plaza with Lee or our local elementary school or a friend's back yard or our annual 4th of July Kid's Parade. Bob Baker's spirit lives on with his magic and we're lucky to be here to experience it! Also, nerd alert, but I'm a die hard Laurie Crogan fan and the replica white daisy green flower linoleum cut floor she created for Bob Baker (once seen painted at the downtown LA location) is just gorgeous!!! read more

A magical experience. Every Child/Adult needs to visit Bob baker theater at least once in their lifetime. My only regret was not taking my daughters when they were younger. Now (11 & 16) I truly hesitated buying tickets as I was worried that they would be bored and have the classic emotionless teenage stare but to my surprise, they LOVED the show! I could hear them laugh and giggle throughout the show. We watched the 60th Birthday show, and already have tickets for the Nutcracker show playing in December. Can't wait! If you're reading this and hesitating whether or not to check this magical place out, Do yourself a favor and get the tickets. You won't regret it! read more

Bob Baker Marionette Theater - Meet & greet after the show - Performing Arts Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Growing up in Southern California, I wasn't aware of Bob Baker or his Marrionete theater. One day, while in LA, my girlfriend talked about the Bob Baker Marrionete theater and that we should check it out. My girlfriend knows that I am a big kid at heart, so I made it a goal to attend one show this year. We attended a Halloween themed show in October. I honestly enjoyed my time at the Bob Baker Marrionete theater. The show was a blast, and I got to be a kid again for a bit. I would definitely recommend this place for families and anyone who is a kid at heart. + Friendly Staff + Fun for the entire family + Excellent show with plenty of great music + Great value for your hard earned dollar + The theme of the shows changes throughout the year. read more

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The show gave me and my daughter so much joy. Great atmosphere, friendly and talented staff. Such a gem. Can't wait to come back.

This place holds a special place in my heart this is great for children and adults. Definitely something magical about each show that changes every season with the holidays. Keeps you coming back for more as well as the icecream at the end of the show. Get your kids off screens and bring them here ! I trust both you and your kids will love it. It's also been around for 60 years!!! read more

Such a delightful and charming theater! Attended a holiday show show there for the first time. The Marionettes, combined with Ron Lynch's NYE show that featured comedians, music and performers was fantastic! Nice seating and refreshments. Street parking wasn't too difficult. read more

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We went to the Spooktacular and had such a good time!! Very talented staff , beautiful place, historic!

So unique and fun. Definitely great for a very different night out. It is clear that everyone here really loves this art form.

I've been attending their holiday show for years. Started going when I was a child. My birthday is in December so I always celebrated with the birthday marionettes. Loved the ice cream cups and hot coco after the shoes. I also got to take a photo with Bob Baker a few years before he passed away. I've taken my children there as well. I always recommend it for families of all ages. I recently went to the new location and watched a show. It's a definite "must do!" read more

I don't know if you can find this unique and creative experience anywhere but here. Kids and kids at heart delight in these personable characters on strings. But it's not just the stars of the show that make this so great. The scene is set in days gone by with a red velvet curtained theater, chandeliers, talented puppeteers and top of the line organist playing up a storm on his magnificent white gold trimmed instrument. This is what you're hoping for and much more. They sell out each series quickly and you'll understand why. A rare find and a must do experience for all. read more

Bob Baker Marionette Theater - Experience the music, personality & movement. Reserve floor seating to interact with adorable characters. - Performing Arts Near Me - Los Angeles, California

This is a gem in LA! Some of the most skilled puppeteers working their magic with hundreds of different marionettes. You must see these performances, they change frequently (circus theme, Halloween, etc). Bob Baker is an amazing experience, check it out (you'll thank me later)! read more

Bob Baker Marionette Theater has been on my bucket list for some time and I'm glad I finally went! The theater and staff have a whimsical vibe and the show itself was fast-moving and fun. But most of all the marionettes are extraordinary. There is clearly a lot of love and craftsmanship put into them and it's cool to see them come to live with the puppeteers and story. I arrived only a few minutes before show time and the check in process was fast and smooth. After the show, they give out free ice cream and allow you to take photos with the puppets. Parking-wise, there's meters and a paid lot nearby but they fill up so get there early. Otherwise you'll need street parking a few blocks away. It's easy to find but prepare to walk. read more

Put away your video games and watch animation at its core! Every ticket is the best seat in the house, especially if you're a kid on the floor. This theater has been around 60+ years; why? ...Because creativity never goes out of style, whether you're 2 or 102 (you may even like it more, later in life when you can appreciate more of what must go into a production like the ones experienced here!) support this non-profit with ticket sales, a purchase in the store (very cool t-shirts there, by the way) or telling a friend. Enjoy! read more

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Oh my goodness, I don't even know where to start with this place. I haven't visited this theater in years and not since it moved to Highland Park; however, I was super excited when a friend decided to throw her baby shower here yesterday. It was hard to know just what to expect, but the theater absolutely delivered everything it promised and more. The entire shower was a Halloween theme and it suited the theater perfectly. It was just as quirky and unique as I remember and I loved that it still gives you all the vintage feels. You really do feel like you've gone back in time to a magical place. In regards to the performers and crew, what an absolutely delightful group of exceptionally talented individuals. I loved that everyone had their own unique style and that we got a little glimpse of it (even amidst the all black attire). The performance was appropriate for anyone of any age. There were toddlers that were part of the celebration yesterday and they were absolutely LOVING it. There is also quite a bit of humor that gets overlooked by the little ones but really adds a fun element to the show for adults. And of course, as so many reviews have mentioned, there is ice cream afterwards. I mean, who doesn't like ice cream??! 10 stars for making my dear friend's baby shower an absolutely perfect day! I cannot wait to come back to see the Halloween show next month and many more performances thereafter. read more

What a class act! A total blast back in time, like time before I was even born, to a life when marionette puppets were cutting edge! Everything about this place screams authentic. Their website made it super straightforward to figure out a date and pick the exact tickets I wanted. All of their staff were incredibly friendly and accommodating from what I observed and experienced. They had a ridiculously wide array of souvenir items that are reasonably priced. Would definitely be best if you have kids but still equally enjoyable if you are just going to live out your childhood one more time. The show was much shorter than I expected beforehand, but once I got there and saw how low-tech it was, it made sense. The controllers seem to really be dedicated to putting on the best possible show. Their movements were flawless and each scene put you exactly where they wanted you. Parking can definitely be a little rough, it looked like you may need to either be in the neighborhoods or wherever was metered parking but we didn't find any. read more

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Amazing show it's great for the whole family of all ages. I think kids under 3 I'm not 100% sure of the age, but if the child sits on your lap, they don't need a ticket. Loved the show, and they stopped asking for the covid cards. So don't worry about that. You can park in the neighborhood, too. I overheard someone say there's a parking where you can pay. After the show they have free ice cream and dairy free but you have to ask for it. read more

Bob Baker Marionette Theater - Poster for the Halloween Spooktacular Show. - Performing Arts Near Me - Los Angeles, California

This is a vintage gem of a theater. Did you know their new location used to be a silent movie theater? Pretty neat! History lurks around every corner in this quirky space oozing with imagination. Disney artifacts and movie relics are mixed in with the latest puppets in the works. Everyone is incredibly nice and welcoming. While I was there a couple had a meeting about renting the space for their wedding - how fun! Highly recommend checking out this local venue. They have events for the whole family year round and plenty of opportunities to get involved. read more

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