At a Glance
- Hooray LA! returns to Bob Baker Marionette Theater
- Tickets $28; free for lap-sitting children 2 and under
- Run from Jan 24 to early May, select weekend dates
- Why it matters: A beloved puppet show celebrates Los Angeles’ diversity, offering families a unique cultural experience.
The return of Hooray LA! to the Bob Baker Marionette Theater in Highland Park marks a new chapter for a show that first opened its doors in 1981. The production, refreshed in recent years, focuses on the city’s diversity and uniqueness, giving audiences a new lens on Los Angeles. The engagement will open on Jan 24 and run through early May, with a handful of performances each weekend.
A Return to the Stage
The Bob Baker Marionette Theater, located near downtown, has hosted Hooray LA! for decades. The latest iteration celebrates the city’s present-day culture, with updated sets and a new puppet mariachi band. While the show doesn’t perform every day, it appears a few times each weekend, giving families ample opportunity to catch a performance during the winter and early spring.
Ticketing and Family Friendly
Tickets for the show cost $28. Families can bring lap-sitting children 2 and under for free, making it an accessible outing for young audiences. Seating options include traditional chairs and stage-adjacent pillows, providing a relaxed viewing experience. After the curtain falls, ice cream is served, and puppets often step out for photo opportunities with fans.
Show Highlights
- A fish from the Los Angeles River swims across the stage, charming the audience.
- A mountain lion marionette makes a dramatic entrance.
- The puppet mariachi band performs, showcasing LA’s rich musical culture.
- Ice cream is served post-show, adding a sweet treat to the experience.
- Puppets frequently join audience members for photos, creating lasting memories.
Behind the Scenes
“For the 2026 presentation, the show focuses on celebrating the city as it is today, and wonderful people and puppets who make it up,” said the theater team. They added, “Additional elements, including BBMT’s puppet mariachi band, have been added to the show, showcasing LA’s rich culture.” These statements highlight the theater’s commitment to reflecting the city’s evolving identity.
Venue and Timing
The Bob Baker Marionette Theater sits in Highland Park, a neighborhood known for its vibrant arts scene. The venue’s intimate setting allows for a close connection between performers and the audience. The show’s schedule, while not daily, is strategically spread across winter and early spring weekends, ensuring accessibility for local residents.
What to Expect
The production is described as shimmering like the stars of Tinseltown, offering a whimsical yet grounded portrayal of Los Angeles. Local-loving marionettes take center stage, weaving stories that celebrate the city’s diversity. The show’s refreshed production includes modern puppets and interactive elements that keep audiences engaged.
Key Takeaways
- Hooray LA! is back at the Bob Baker Marionette Theater from Jan 24 to early May.
- Tickets are $28, with free admission for lap-sitting children 2 and under.
- Highlights include a river fish, mountain lion, puppet mariachi band, and post-show ice cream.
- The 2026 presentation emphasizes LA’s current culture and community.
- The show offers a family-friendly, immersive experience that celebrates the city’s diversity.
The theater’s return engagement showcases how puppetry can reflect contemporary Los Angeles, offering audiences a playful yet meaningful exploration of the city’s spirit.
