I can't remember the first time I heard about the Bob Baker Marionette Theater, but I know I have been wanting to visit for some time. I feel like it's one of those things that was always in the back of my mind; one of my old high school friends is a puppeteer there, and every time I see her post I go, "One day I'll see a show there." I cycled that thought over and over in my mind until D23 (the official Disney Fan Club) gave me a good reason to make it happen.
On a Saturday afternoon I made the trek up to Highland Park, a part of Los Angeles I've never explored before. I arrived early to give myself some time to try Kumquat Coffee but ended up rushing my expensive latte because finding parking was an absolute atrocity. Although the Bob Baker Marionette Theater lists 2 local parking lots on their website, they are very small and were full when I arrived. Closeby metered parking was often 2-hour parking only, and I was going to be there longer. I eventually found a parking and got in line at Kumquat Coffee.
There was a literal line out the door, and it moved very slowly. On one hand this speaks to the craftsmanship exhibited by Kumquat Coffee, but on the other hand this means you can't plan to stop in if you are in a rush. After waiting 20 minutes in line, I ordered my seasonal latte and watched as the baristas measured every ingredient on a scale. I received my Ruby Marocchino (espresso, ruby chocolate ganache, pineberry syrup) in a tiny cup and rushed out the door to join the line outside the theater, which is across the street from the coffee shop. I did enjoy the latte but I will say I can't necessarily recommend spending $7.50 on a tiny drink.
I got checked in for the event and entered the theater. I was trying to chug and savor my expensive beverage but thankfully I was allowed to bring it in to enjoy in non-carpeted areas.
As we filed in, many of us sporting Mickey ears and Disney-themed outfits, we were handed water, a snack, and a fun button packed themed for the day.
Upon entering the cozy lobby I was immediately struck by the theater's whimsy and nostalgia. It was colorful and welcoming, and there was a special display set up with some Disney puppets and artifacts.
Part of why this event happened is because of Disney's history with Bob Baker and his puppets. There were several displays set up throughout the theater, showcasing that history. It was very special and so interesting, especially for this group of Disney fans.
After a bathroom visit (I figured it would be smart to go early, since I had arrived early), I entered the theater to find a seat.
The live organist played classic Disney favorites that wafted through the lush, vintage theater and made the atmostphere all the more magical. The chandeliers sparkled against the velvet red curtains. You know that feeling you get when you watch a classic movie like Singing in the Rain? Well that's how it felt being in this theater.
The seating can be tricky; There are 3 sections of auditorium-esque seats, floor seats (cushions) in front of those, and parlor seating (stools and tables) in the very back. Although I was further back, my stool seat was elevated and I enjoyed the straight-on view of the show.
The show finally began but with a bit of an intro - they played us a rare Sherman Brothers demo from the archive, told us some history of Bob Baker, the theater, and all of its relationship with Disney. There were 2 intro numbers and mo history afterwards. It was really special being in a theater full of Disney fans, learning some lesser-known Disney history. There were even dolls on display in one of the parlor areas that were used on the opening day of Disneyland!
After our history lesson and extra performances, the main show began - Something to Crow About, a Bob Baker original. In today's age of virtual reality, CGI and unlimited information at our fingertips, it was refreshing to watch a show that felt so wholesome and authentic. If I'm being honest, I wasn't sure if I'd enjoy a marionette show; aren't puppets for children? Well I can confidently say I genuinely enjoyed this show. The puppet were mesmerizing and legitimately funny! The show had an old-timey charm that is sincere and so rare these days.
After the show, we participated in a very important Bob Baker tradition: ice cream!
In addition, for this event, we were also given backstage tours and got to see the puppets up close. I may not be a puppet enthusiast (though I do love the Muppets), but I was still able to appreciate and enjoy this special tour.
I finished my ice cream after the tour, enjoying the wonderful ambiance of the theater and everything it stands for. Especially given the recent fires and the tragedies that followed, it is not lost on me that Los Angeles is very lucky to have establishments like this still standing.
I recommend seeing a show at this historic theater! I plan on going back for Halloween and Christmas (they do a Nutcracker show!!!). Let me know if you end up seeing a show!
Until next time,
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