DAY TRIP Bob Baker Marionettes

At 8 years old, Bob Baker was already learning the discipline and patience involved in being a marionette artist. Training with several different local companies, Baker embarked on his first professional marionette experience under the guidance of director Mervyn Leroy.

Once he was in high school, Baker started making marionettes that were being sold in Europe and the United States. After graduating, he went into animation for George Pal Studios. Starting as an apprentice, Baker worked his way up until he was made head animator of “Puppetoons” only a year after starting at the company.

After World War II, Baker served as an animation advisor for film studios such as Walt Disney.

Baker joined with Alton Wood and flipped a run-down scenic shop near downtown Los Angeles into a joint where families could come to see innovative and unique entertainment.

Today, Baker’s puppet inventory stands at more than 3,000, and he is still creating more.

GETTING THERE

Take the 405 Freeway north for about 12 miles. Exit toward the 605 Freeway and merge onto the 605 Freeway north. Follow that for about 10 miles and then exit onto the 5 Freeway north toward Los Angeles. Take a slight left onto the 101 Freeway north. Take the exit toward San Pedro/Harbor Freeway. Merge onto the 110 Freeway south. Take the Fourth Street/Sixth Street exit toward Downtown. Keep right at the fork and follow the signs for Third Street. Turn right at South Beaudry Avenue. Turn left at West Second Street. Turn right at North Toluca Street. Turn right at West First Street.

ADMISSION

General admission for the puppet shows is $15 for adults and children. Children ages 2 and younger are admitted free. Reservations are required.

HOURS

The Bob Baker Marionette Theater has performances at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday through Friday, and at 2:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. There is a touring company of the Bob Baker Marionette Theater, which visits various areas in the Los Angeles area. For more information on the touring company, call (213) 250-4093.

PUPPET FACTORY

The Bob Baker store offers a variety of puppets for patrons to enjoy. Hand puppets of various animals range in price from $8 for small puppets and $20 for larger ones. The $8 puppets come in bear, cat, dog, elephant, mouse and lion models. The larger puppets come in lamb, bird, monster and flower models.

Mexican marionettes are available, with and without toy rubber guns, in various styles. They can be purchased at three for $16.50.

Puppet stands are offered from $25 to $80.

COLLECTIBLES

Collectible puppets are available from Bob Baker, such as storybook characters Pinocchio, Little Red Riding Hood, Jack and Jill, and others at $75. Also available are clowns, international characters, Rainbow Elves, navy and army puppets, and ballet dancers.

— Daniel Tedford