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Coachella's Surprise Act: Puppets Steal the Show!
17 Apr
Summary
- Bob Baker Marionette Theater is a beloved LA institution.
- The theater has about 3,000 handmade puppets in its collection.
- The group recently launched a $7 million campaign to purchase York Theater.
The Bob Baker Marionette Theater, a cherished Los Angeles institution, unexpectedly captivated audiences at the recent Coachella festival. Attendees eagerly claimed spots to witness the magic of puppets, with many calling the show a highlight of their weekend. The theater, a national treasure with 10 full-time staff and numerous puppeteers, brought its unique blend of joy and connection to the desert.
Founded by Bob Baker in 1963 near Downtown Los Angeles, the theater now resides in Highland Park, amassing a collection of approximately 3,000 handmade puppets. They perform up to six shows weekly, and their traveling company extends their reach across California.
The theater's journey has not been without challenges. It faced foreclosure in 2008, leading to its eviction from the original space in late 2018. After becoming a nonprofit, it relocated to the York Theater. A crucial community fundraising effort in 2020 raised $365,000 to sustain operations during the pandemic.
Currently, the Bob Baker Marionette Theater is undertaking a major campaign to raise $7 million to purchase and restore the York Theater. Having already secured $4.5 million from arts foundations, they aim to make the venue a permanent home for their art.
The troupe's creative output extends beyond festivals, including crafting a ventriloquist dummy for Kendrick Lamar's tour and performing for various special events. Their presence at Coachella, showcasing over 100 puppets, underscored their enduring commitment and passion for puppetry.
