Bob Baker Marionette Theater's “The Nutcracker” debuts at Sierra Madre Playhouse

Photo by Bob Baker Marionette Theater

The holidays are perfect for sweet confections wrapped in psychedelic bows. And that pretty much describes Bob Baker Marionette Theater’s (BBMT) rendition of “The Nutcracker.” Created in 1969, this puppets-on-a-string version of the beloved holiday classic, debuting at Sierra Madre Playhouse through Jan. 5, is designed to delight both the very young and young at heart.

Bob Baker Marionette Theater's "The Nutcracker" at Sierra Madre Playhouse (Photo by Anita W. Harris)

Set to a recorded children’s version of Tchaikovsky’s classic that relates the story of young Clara, her miraculous Nutcracker soldier and the Sugar Plum Fairy’s land of waltzes – with some additional jazzy and rock numbers thrown in – this performance of less than an hour is surprisingly enthralling.

Part of its appeal is the fluid choreography and puppeteering performed by several BBMT artists. Dressed in holiday red, they meticulously operate a variety of large puppets – each weighing between 15 and 40 pounds – dancing them around the stage and animating them by pulling strings.

Bob Baker Marionette Theater's "The Nutcracker" at Sierra Madre Playhouse (Photos by Anita W. Harris)

Action flows off-stage as well, with the Mouse King and his troupe sniffing out young seat inhabitants and Clara and her Nutcracker-turned-prince floating around the theater on a dreamy cloud. Puppet drummers rock out in alcoves framed by lightbulbs while candy-faced guitarist marionettes strum on stage.  

Photo by Bob Baker Marionette Theater

The cutely intimate Sierra Madre Playhouse, with its throwback red velvet seats and curtain, seems ideally suited for this vintage feeling show. And the BBMT artists’ technical prowess and dedication to their craft will only add to your holiday spirit. Hang around the lobby afterward to meet them and their marionettes while enjoying a sweet treat of a different kind.

Bob Baker Marionette Theater’s “The Nutcracker” continues through Jan. 5 at Sierra Madre Playhouse, 87 West Sierra Madre Blvd., Sierra Madre, with shows Mondays through Fridays at 4:30 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.; Saturdays at 10:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m.; and Sundays at 1:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. Tickets are $25. For tickets and information, call the box office at (626) 355-4318 or visit SierraMadrePlayhouse.org. Run time is one hour with no intermission.