…is both the title of the current show at Bob Baker’s Marionette Theater – and how I feel about this gem of a theater itself.
I’ve been intrigued by the place ever since I heard it featured on KPCC. As I learned more, I became further fascinated by it. It’s in downtown LA, underneath the Beverly Blvd bridge. It’s been in continuous operation since 1961. It’s namesake is an 84-year-old man who still has big plans for the future even though the place has seen some financial hardship.
So, with mom in town visiting, today seemed to be a good day to take it off the “Yet To Do” list. We arrived at the nondescript concrete block of a building to find dozens of little schoolkids milling about. I think we were the only adults who weren’t teachers! Our reservations were waiting for us at the box office, and we were relieved to be escorted in a secret entrance to avoid waiting with the kids.
Inside, the theater is an open room with a few rows of chairs on 3 sides, and a carpeted area where children sit. My entire marionette experience comes from the Sound of Music, so I had been expected a little box or some sort of stage. Not at this theater – while there is a curtain that lifts to expose some beautiful sets, a lot of the action take place right out in the room, surrounded by the audience.
The puppeteers are also the ushers before the show begins and do a fantastic job getting the little imps settled and in their seats. Then the lights go down and the show begins – and at that point you become aware of what magic these people are putting on. Like with Avenue Q, the puppeteers are in full view of the audience. But the way they bring these objects to life, you totally focus on the puppets. All of a sudden you really understand the story of Pinocchio.
The current show, Something To Crow About, takes place out on the country, and features a full ensemble of farm animals – not to mention flowers and vegetables. It cleverly takes the audience through a full day, from sunrise to twilight. There were some really incredible moments – from the animated clothes drying on the line, to the tap-dancing frogs – and they took full advantage of the abilities and personalities of these wonderful puppets.
Anyone living within an hour of LA has to make this a destination – especially when you realize how threatened this treasure is. I’m hoping Bob Baker’s theater goes strong and can soon celebrate 50 years of delighting children – and adults!
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