The Heart of the Beast Puppet and Mask Lending Library

A pioneering initiative introducing the Twin Cities' premier collection of puppets and masks available for borrowing, just like books from a library, completely free of charge. Our diverse array of puppets and masks, on display for all to admire, serves as a vibrant resource for community events, school plays, personal celebrations, and civic engagements.

Every first and third Saturday of the month from 10 A.M. to 2 P.M., the public is invited to explore this enchanting collection, either for a leisurely visit or to check out a puppet for their unique event needs.

Be sure to check our calendar for special events on these days too, as we bring the magic of storytelling and creative expression to life.

More about the Puppet & Mask Lending Library

View 2023 Annual Report

Our Annual Report

Since 1973, In the Heart of the Beast Puppet and Mask Theatre has helped to create and cultivate the puppetry community in the Twin Cities. We are a world-renowned theater recognized for our large scale puppets and political activism.

For almost 50 years, we have brought some of the most talented puppeteers to Minneapolis while maintaining a strong connection to the local puppet community.

In 2022, we embarked on a strategic planning process. We honor what we have accomplished and are we excited to carry the work forward.

HOBT Quick Links

Throughout the last year, HOBT put plans in place to ensure an abundant future for our organization – prioritizing equity and fairness, employing more artists, reaching more audiences, and embracing guidance from the communities we serve. This work is the foundation of our bridge to an artistically rich, vibrant, and financially sound future for HOBT.

Artistic graphic that says HOBT is building a Bridge to our future

We have an audacious capacity-building goal: Raise $300,000 by June 2025.

You believe in the power of puppets to bring joy, resilience, and wonder to the world. Together we can build a bridge to HOBT’s future while maintaining our deep connection to past puppetry brilliance.