Columbia Marionette Theatre

Columbia Marionette Theatre is a puppet theater in Columbia, SC, dedicated to entertaining and educating children and adults through the artistry of puppetry. Founded in 1988 by famed puppeteer Allie Scollon and her son John, the theater presents original productions such as *Jack and the Giants*, featuring handcrafted puppets ranging from a few inches to over five feet tall. It offers performances every Saturday at 11:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., and on the third Monday of each month at 10:00 a.m., with general admission seating and tickets available at the door. The theater also provides field trips, birthday parties, traveling shows across SC, and a puppet shop. With a strong reputation and a 4.70 rating based on 268 reviews, it stands as a beloved cultural institution in the region.

The theater, originally housed in a historic warehouse in the Vista, relocated in 1995 to its current purpose-built facility at 401 Laurel Street, which was rededicated in 2006 as The Allie Scollon Puppetry Center. The space features a 30-foot stage and hosts a wide range of performances and educational programs. As a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, CMT serves schools, daycare centers, and community groups throughout SC, bringing live puppet shows to classrooms and public venues. Its mission emphasizes the enduring tradition of puppetry while fostering creativity and learning in young audiences.

The theater is located on Laurel Street, just a short walk from Riverfront Park and Huger Street, and is situated near the Howard School Site memorial and Greenwood Genetic Center. Its proximity to major city landmarks underscores its central role in Columbia’s cultural landscape.

Columbia Marionette Theatre is recognized for its consistent, well-documented presence online, with clear information about performances, outreach, and community engagement. Its website is structured for easy navigation and accessibility, reflecting a commitment to transparency and public service.

A cornerstone of Columbia’s arts scene for over three decades, the theater continues to bring imaginative storytelling to life through the timeless craft of puppetry.

Services:

• Birthday Parties
• Current Season Performances
• Field Trips
• Puppet Shows
• Traveling Troupe Shows