What is Driveway Follies?

Driveway Follies provides professionally staged and family-friendly Halloween  performances each year in Oakland. Beginning in 2007 with just three puppeteers performing a three act show, Driveway Follies has expanded to a crew of 9 puppeteers in 2024.

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When is Driveway Follies?

October 30th and 31st (every Halloween!) with shows running continuously throughout the evening. We begin at dusk for our blacklights to shine and usually wrap up by 9pm (weather, neighbors, and puppeteers permitting). 

 

Where is Driveway Follies?

Our driveway is located in the Glenview neighborhood of Oakland, 3854 Greenwood Ave. 

 

Do I need tickets?

Nope! Driveway Follies accepts donations and sponsorships from fans and friends throughout the year to keep the show free for all bats, cats, and human beings come Halloween. Check out our program on show nights to learn more about our amazing sponsors.

 

Is the show scary?

Some of our Halloween puns might be frightfully bad, but Driveway Follies provides family-friendly performances.

 

I’m an adult without a kid, can I see the show?

Of course! We do suggest that adults not accompanying children come later in the evening to leave the small front seats available for our tiniest fans. 

 

Where do I park?

Parking can get quite tricky in our quiet neighborhood. We suggest parking on Park Blvd and taking the short walk up Greenwood Ave. The AC transit 33 bus stops right at that intersection, and carpooling is always encouraged. 

 

Is the show accessible?

We have a hilly driveway, limited seating, and can get very crowded, so let us help you see the show! Just email us at info@drivewayfollies.org to make a plan for mobility aids, support animals, and the like. We also recommend that everyone include a CDC-approved mask in their costume and stays home if they don't feel well. Lets keep the Follies fun and safe for everyone. 

 

Are there restrooms?

There are no bathrooms available in the driveway, please plan accordingly. 

 

Who is Larry Schmidt?

Founder, director, producer, and friend Larry Schmidt was the creative force behind Driveway Follies since inception. Through Driveway Follies we celebrate Larry's contributions to marionette puppetry and continue to provide a rare venue for both seasoned puppeteers and those new to puppets to practice their art.

 

How do I donate or sponsor the show?

Driveway Follies is a 501(c)3 nonprofit and we accept donations year-round at our fundraisers and online at https://www.drivewayfollies.org/support. If your employer matches donations you can find us through your Benevity portal. 

 

How do I volunteer?

Thanks so much for taking an interest in volunteering with us, please fill out this short form so we can reach out at the start of our season: Volunteer Interest Form

 

How many people are back there?

We generally have 8-9 people backstage, and you can learn who they are this year on our Team page: https://www.drivewayfollies.org/team

 

How many puppets are back there??

Each act has anywhere from 2 to 30 handmade puppets, props, and sets! 

 

I still have questions.

We would love to hear them at at info@drivewayfollies.org