Experience Holiday Magic at Bob Baker Marionette Theater’s ‘Holiday on Strings’
The Bob Baker Marionette Theater offers family fun. This winter, enjoy the show “Holiday on Strings.”
The show features marionettes and includes themes from Santa’s workshop, Hanukkah, and Charles Dickens. Attending a Bob Baker show is a tradition for many families in Los Angeles.
“Holiday on Strings” lasts about one hour. This year, it runs until January 12. Most shows occur on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. From December 17 to 24, the theater has two to four shows daily, including two shows on December 31.
Bob Baker founded the theater in 1963 with Alton Wood. They created thousands of marionettes and entertained countless children in Los Angeles. After Baker’s death in 2014, the theater moved to a new location on York Avenue in Highland Park.
How can families get involved with the Bob Baker Marionette Theater outside of attending performances?
Interview with Marionette Specialist: Celebrating Family Tradition at the Bob Baker Marionette Theater
Interviewer: Thank you for joining us today! Could you introduce yourself and your connection to the Bob Baker Marionette Theater?
Specialist: Absolutely! My name is Sarah Thompson, and I’ve been involved with the Bob Baker Marionette Theater for over a decade as a puppeteer and educator. I have always been passionate about bringing the art of puppetry to life, especially for families in the Los Angeles area.
Interviewer: “Holiday on Strings” sounds like a delightful winter show. Can you share what families can expect from this production?
Specialist: “Holiday on Strings” is truly magical! Families can expect a festive blend of holiday themes ranging from Santa’s workshop to Hanukkah celebrations, and even a nod to the classic tales of Charles Dickens. The show runs for about one hour and is designed to captivate both young and old with its vibrant storytelling and enchanting marionettes.
Interviewer: How does the theater’s atmosphere enhance the experience for young audiences?
Specialist: The intimacy of the Bob Baker Marionette Theater is a key part of the experience. With a seating capacity of fewer than 100, the small venue allows children to sit directly on the carpet right in front of the stage. This proximity to the performance makes them feel like they’re part of the show. Plus, we start the weekend shows with lively organ music played by Ed Torres, which sets a joyful tone that resonates throughout the audience.
Interviewer: The cast features over 100 marionettes! How do they interact with the audience?
Specialist: Yes, we have a diverse cast of marionettes that dance, sing, and even engage directly with the audience. The interaction is spontaneous and often includes surprise elements that delight the kids. And speaking of surprises, we finish most shows with a special treat: ice cream for the little ones, making the experience even sweeter!
Interviewer: The tradition of attending Bob Baker shows seems strong in Los Angeles. What impact do you think these performances have on families?
Specialist: Attending a show at the Bob Baker Marionette Theater is often a cherished family tradition. It gives parents an opportunity to introduce their children to the arts, sparking creativity and imagination. Plus, during the winter season, “Holiday on Strings” allows families to come together and celebrate the joy of the holidays through storytelling and puppetry.
Interviewer: Can you tell our readers about ticket availability and how they can get involved?
Specialist: Tickets for “Holiday on Strings” are priced at $28 for adults and children, and children under 2 can sit on laps for free. Advance reservations are necessary since shows are popular, especially during the holiday season. We hope families will come out to see the performances running until January 12, with more frequent showings from December 17 to 24.
Interviewer: Thank you for sharing such wonderful insights about “Holiday on Strings” and the Bob Baker Marionette Theater!
Specialist: Thank you for having me! We look forward to welcoming families this winter for a truly enchanting experience.
The venue seats fewer than 100 people. Children sit on the carpet in front. Weekend shows start with lively organ music by Ed Torres. The cast includes over 100 marionettes that dance, sing, and engage with the audience. Most shows end with a surprise: ice cream for the kids.
Tickets for “Holiday on Strings” cost $28 for adults and children. Children under 2 can sit on laps for free. Advance reservations are required.