Artistic rendering – Event may differ
Puppet Showplace Theater Performances
New England's center for puppetry arts with diverse shows and workshops.
About
Immerse yourself in the magical world of puppetry at Puppet Showplace Theater. They offer a captivating array of performances, from whimsical fairy tales and spooky classics for families to avant-garde cabarets for adults. Discover interactive shows, engaging workshops, and a vibrant community hub dedicated to the art of puppetry.
Our Take
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, children, teens, adults interested in puppetry and theater
Vibe
Creative, whimsical, artistic, community-oriented
Energy Level
Low to medium (depending on show interactivity)
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Low (indoor performances)
Special Events & Promotions
- Ticket Bundles — limited time only!
- Private Birthday Parties Available to Book
- Pay-What-You-Can Puppet Shows
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.
Location
Event Details
Pricing
$$
Duration
Varies by performance (e.g., "2-3 hours per visit" for birthday parties, show runtimes vary)
Ages
All ages (with specific recommendations for certain shows, e.g., "All ages welcome, especially enjoyed by ages 4 - 9")
Neighborhood
Brookline Village
Timed Entry
Yes
Featured Performers
- Paper Heart Puppets
- Brad Shur
- Sarah Nolen
- Puppet Motion
- Frogtown Mountain Puppeteers
- CactusHead Puppets
- WonderSpark Puppets
- The Culture Tree
- Emmanuel Elpenord
- Harry LaCoste
- Lucky Duck Puppets
- Tanglewood Marionettes
- Margaret Moody Puppets
- Talking Hands Theatre
- The Velvet Dirtmunchers
Organizer
Puppet Showplace Theater
Practical Information
Parking
Metered parking is available on Station Street ($2/hr), with meters accepting quarters, credit cards, or app payment. A parking garage is located at One Brookline Place, and four municipal parking lots are available in Brookline Village.
Accessibility
They offer a step-free entrance located in the back of the building, accessible through a wooden gate past HC Studio Hair Salon. Assistance is available for opening the gate and door. Renovations are scheduled for summer 2025 to further improve accessibility.
Pet Policy
Service animals welcome.
Food & Drink
Beer and wine are available at the "Puppet Slam" event.
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Check the 'Pay-What-You-Can' performances for budget-friendly options to enjoy professional puppetry.
- For shows recommended for specific age groups (e.g., 4-9), consider attending with children within that range for the best experience.
- The "Puppets at Night" events are specifically for adults and teens, offering more experimental and mature content.
- Book tickets in advance, especially for popular shows or weekend performances, as seating can be limited.
- Utilize the public transportation options, as the theater is conveniently located directly across from the Brookline Village T stop.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the box office hours?
The lobby, box office, and puppet store are open 30 minutes before the first scheduled performance. They also have set hours on Thursdays (1-5 PM), Fridays (1-5 PM), Saturdays (10 AM-2:15 PM), and Sundays (10 AM-2:15 PM). They are closed on Mondays and Wednesdays, but reachable by phone or email.
Can I book a birthday party here?
Yes, they offer private birthday party performances, with options like 'Magnificent Monster Circus' available for booking on select weekends.
What is the "Puppet Slam"?
The Fall Puppet Slam is an evening event featuring short-form puppetry for adults, with a variety of styles, beer, and wine available.
How can I get to the theater?
The theater is easily accessible by public transit, located across from the Brookline Village T stop (Green Line 'D'). Driving directions and parking information are also available.
Is the venue accessible?
They offer a step-free entrance at the back of the building and are working on further accessibility improvements. Assistance is available for entry.
