Bob Baker Marionette Theater's Puppet Prom: A Night of Whimsy and Fundraising
Embrace the Magic: Where Puppets Dance and Dreams Take Flight
A Whimsical Gathering: An Evening of Enthusiastic Cheers and Dancing Marionettes
At the historic Garibaldina Society in Los Angeles, the oldest Italian society still active in America, the atmosphere was electric. Actor John C. Reilly's enthusiastic call, "Who loves puppets?", was met with a resounding chorus of cheers, underscoring the collective excitement of the attendees. Guests, adorned in an eclectic mix of tulle gowns, whimsical handmade corsages, and distinctive bolo ties, eagerly knelt to capture videos of a captivating spectacle: a parade of marionettes gracefully gliding across the dance floor.
John C. Reilly: Master of Ceremonies and Puppet Enthusiast
Puppets were, undeniably, the focal point of the Bob Baker Marionette Theater's Puppet Prom, the 63-year-old organization's third annual fundraising gala. John C. Reilly, elegantly attired in a three-piece suit and a bowler hat adorned with decorative birds and vibrant plastic flowers, charmingly took on the role of the evening's master of ceremonies. A memorable moment saw him delightedly observing a marionette deliver a remarkable performance of "Mister Cellophane," a nod to his own iconic number from the 2002 film Chicago.
A Behind-the-Scenes Extravaganza: Negroni Fountains and a Charming Pink Cat
Mary Fagot, the theater's co-executive director, aptly described the Puppet Prom as a "backstage party with the puppets," a sentiment perfectly reflected in the evening's lively proceedings. Attendees mingled amidst balloon-adorned spaces, partaking in drinks from a unique negroni fountain. A particular highlight was the adorable Pink Cat, a cotton candy-colored feline marionette whose coquettish blinks and tail swishes elicited joyful squeals from the delighted guests.
Fostering Creativity and Joy: The Vision of the Theater's Leadership
Since assuming leadership of the non-profit theater in 2023 alongside artistic director Alex Evans, Fagot has been driven by a desire to craft fundraising events that not only generate financial support but also serve as invitations for creative expression, imaginative engagement, and profound joy. This philosophy is deeply embedded in the spirit of the Puppet Prom, which aims to be an experience that delights and inspires all who attend.
A Healing Force: The Enduring Impact of Marionettes
Sam Pinkleton, the Tony Award-winning director of Oh, Mary! and The Rocky Horror Show, eloquently articulated the profound impact of the Bob Baker Marionette Theater, describing it as "the joy machine." He emphasized its crucial role in sustaining his creative inspiration and even providing solace during his time in Los Angeles, proclaiming it his favorite cultural institution in America and asserting that "the marionettes can heal any wound."
A Legacy of Whimsy: Entertaining Generations Since 1963
Since its establishment in 1963, the Bob Baker Marionette Theater has consistently captivated audiences of all ages with its enchanting programs. Initially housed in a former scenic shop near downtown Los Angeles, the theater later found a new home in a converted movie theater in Highland Park after Baker's passing in 2014. The proceeds generated from the Puppet Prom are vital in supporting the talented artists, skilled craftspeople, and dedicated workers who bring the theater's beloved marionette shows to life, from productions celebrating Los Angeles culture like Hooray LA! to forthcoming new shows, including the highly anticipated Choo Choo Revue, the theater's first new show in four decades.
A Spectacular Prom: Reilly's Serenades and Club Classics
This year's prom stood out as the most elaborate to date, showcasing a grand scale of entertainment. Beyond his role as emcee, John C. Reilly charmed the audience with a delightful repertoire of puppet-themed songs, including "I'm Your Puppet" and "Am I a Toy or a Treasure?," accompanied by singer Sierra Ferrell and the vibrant seven-piece New Orleans jazz-style band, The California Feet Warmers. As the evening progressed, producer, DJ, and artist Kindness, renowned for collaborations with Robyn, Solange, and Dev Hynes, kept the dance floor energized with an eclectic mix of club classics.
Securing the Future: The "In LA to Stay" Campaign's Success
The heightened extravagance of the event was well-warranted, following the BBMT's recent launch of its "In LA to Stay" campaign just over two weeks prior. This ambitious initiative aimed to raise $5 million to acquire the theater's current building and an additional $2 million for necessary renovations. Leading up to the prom, the campaign had already garnered significant support from benefactors such as Wallis Annenberg, the Chris and Melody Malachowsky Family Foundation, and long-standing supporters, actor Jack Black and his wife, folk artist Tanya Haden. By the conclusion of the Puppet Prom, the theater had successfully met its $100,000 goal, securing a generous matching donation on top of that. The theater continues its fundraising efforts through a live auction and direct cash donations.
An Irreplaceable Asset: Community Support and Future Generations
For the surrounding community, the Bob Baker Marionette Theater is an indispensable cultural treasure. Reilly fondly recalled attending the shows with his children, emphasizing its status as one of Los Angeles's most original and creative theater companies, consistently inspiring both young and old minds across generations. Nicole Infante, director of the Garibaldina Society, which annually donates its venue for the Puppet Prom, echoed this sentiment, highlighting that many of their members have cherished memories of the theater, from childhood visits to bringing their grandchildren today. She noted that the question was never whether to help, but rather how to contribute, with a lighthearted desire to even "pet the puppets."
Coachella's Acclaim: Expanding Reach and Ensuring Longevity
The BBMT recently captivated a new wave of admirers at Coachella, where it delivered a soulful rendition of Addison Rae's "Diet Pepsi" covered by Ben Platt, and featured Mother Goose and her goslings as special guests onstage. Fagot expressed profound optimism, stating that for the first time in her tenure, the theater's future felt secure. Witnessing the final performance of Hooray LA!, she was moved to tears by the thought that future generations would continue to have access to this unique and vital cultural experience, emphasizing its importance not only for children but for the entire cultural landscape of Los Angeles.