Bob Baker Marionettes Bring The Nutcracker to Sierra Madre Playhouse in a Multi‑Week Run

While the 210 freeway and the A train have been quiet in recent days, a troupe of marionettes has been busy on the ground. The Bob Baker Marionettes have journeyed from their Highland Park home to the Sierra Madre Playhouse, where they are staging a puppet‑filled version of a beloved holiday classic.

The Nutcracker at Sierra Madre Playhouse

The show is a puppet‑powered rendition of The Nutcracker, featuring the iconic Sugarplum Fairy and a host of other whimsical characters. The troupe, founded by the legendary puppeteer Bob Baker more than sixty years ago, has a long history of touring short‑term engagements across the city. This particular production, however, will stay in Sierra Madre for several weeks, giving audiences a chance to experience the full story in a larger, more immersive setting.

The production relies on the skill of the puppeteers to bring each figure to life. From the playful mice to the regal Nutcracker Prince, the performers use a combination of string‑rigged puppetry and creative staging to capture the spirit of the original ballet while adding a unique, playful twist.

A Multi‑Week Celebration

Unlike the troupe’s usual single‑show appearances, the Sierra Madre run will span multiple weeks. This extended schedule allows families and visitors to catch the show at a convenient time, and it also means that the performance will wrap on January 4, 2026. The extended run is a rare opportunity for fans of puppetry and holiday theatre alike to enjoy a beloved story in a new format.

Ticket Details

Tickets for the Sierra Madre production are priced at $28 each. Seats can be reserved in advance through the Bob Baker Marionettes’ official website. Because the show runs for several weeks, the ticketing system allows patrons to choose their preferred date and time. Early booking is recommended, as the show’s popularity and limited seating may fill quickly.

Winter Wonderland at Highland Park

While the Sierra Madre run is in progress, the troupe is also staging a separate holiday event at its Highland Park theater, the company’s long‑time home base. The Winter Wonderland show is a wintry celebration that will run on select dates through January 18, 2026.

This production features the mischievous Demitrius Nova Twinklestar III and a host of other cute‑cute puppets. Audiences will see a playful depiction of Santa’s workshop, complete with penguins caroling, all performed in the historic Highland Park venue. The show’s whimsical tone and playful characters make it a family‑friendly option for those looking for a lighter, more festive experience.

Dress Code for Families

Both the Sierra Madre and Highland Park productions encourage families to dress in festive, over‑the‑top holiday attire. Attendees are invited to wear snowman sweaters, snowflake‑covered vests, or any other creative winter costume. The troupe’s holiday extravaganzas are known for their playful, eye‑catching dress codes, adding an extra layer of fun to the viewing experience.

Key Takeaways

• The Bob Baker Marionettes are staging The Nutcracker at Sierra Madre Playhouse until January 4, 2026.
• Tickets cost $28 and can be booked in advance on the troupe’s website.
• A separate Winter Wonderland show runs at Highland Park through January 18, 2026, featuring Santa’s workshop and caroling penguins.

In summary, the Bob Baker Marionettes offer two distinct holiday shows that combine classic storytelling with the charm of puppetry. Whether you prefer the grandeur of The Nutcracker or the playful atmosphere of Winter Wonderland, there is a holiday theatre experience for every family in Los Angeles this season.