Just ask anyone who's seen Anthony Hopkins' dummy go apeshit homicidal in Magic — puppets are scary! Well, they can be, although we're betting even the ghouliest of vintage marionettes in the big Halloween at the Bob Baker Marionette Theater show won't be anywhere near as creepy. Definitely not with all-around ambassador of retro goodwill Charles Phoenix on hand to host the event, with one of his trademark slideshows telling the story of Baker's life and career as the Southland's unparalleled puppet master, who started manufacturing marionettes while just a teen at Hollywood High and built his craft into a unique empire of an all-too rare art form these days. Baker himself will be on hand for the festivities; cake and ice-cream for all after the show!

Oct. 29-30, 8:30 p.m., 2009

Advertising disclosure: We may receive compensation for some of the links in our stories. Thank you for supporting LA Weekly and our advertisers.