The KiMo Theatre in downtown Albuquerque, located on Central Avenue, a historic section of the original Route 66, has long been shrouded in mystery. Its striking blend of Art Deco and Pueblo architecture has made it a local landmark since it was constructed in 1927. But beyond its architectural beauty, the KiMo Theatre is perhaps best known for the superstitions and ghostly legends that surround it.
Key points
A Tragic Beginning and a Lingering Spirit
The story that has captivated both locals and visitors for decades centers around the tragic death of a young boy. In 1951, 6-year-old Robert “Bobby” Darnall was attending a screening of an Abbott and Costello film at the KiMo with his family. Bobby, frightened by something on the screen, hurried down the stairwell just as a water heater in the basement exploded. The blast injured several people, and sadly, Bobby was among the casualties, succumbing to his injuries on the way to the hospital.
Since that fateful day, Bobby’s spirit is said to have taken up residence in the theatre. Unlike many ghost stories that fade with time, Bobby’s legend only grew as his mischievous antics were witnessed by staff and visitors alike. His ghost is often described as a playful poltergeist, seen wearing a striped button-down shirt and blue jeans, and frequently playing on the theatre’s staircases.
Haunting Presence of Bobby
While some hauntings are subtle and eerie, Bobby’s ghost is far more interactive. He has been known to disrupt live performances, tripping actors on stage and making strange noises during productions. His playful presence is even felt by those backstage, where he has been known to touch people unexpectedly. Over the years, these disturbances became so frequent that performers and staff began leaving offerings to appease Bobby.
The most famous tradition involves hanging donuts on strings near a backstage stairwell. The donuts are left overnight, and by morning, many have vanished or appear with tiny bite marks. This ritual is said to calm Bobby’s spirit and prevent him from causing too much havoc during performances.
A Lady in a Bonnet and Other Spirits
Bobby’s playful spirit isn’t the only ghost said to haunt the KiMo Theatre. Another spectral figure, a lady in a bonnet, has been seen wandering the hallways. Unlike Bobby, her presence is believed to be residual, meaning she is simply repeating actions from her past life without interacting with the living. Her origins remain a mystery, but her ghostly appearances are a common occurrence.
The Restoration and Continued Mischief
In 1977, the KiMo Theatre was in disrepair and faced demolition. However, a successful initiative led by the city of Albuquerque saved the historic building, and it was fully restored to its former glory. Today, the theatre is a venue for plays, musical performances, and more, while proudly standing as part of the National Register of Historic Places.
Despite the renovations, Bobby’s spirit remains active. Numerous incidents during live shows have been blamed on the mischievous boy. In one memorable instance, a production of A Christmas Carol was plagued with accidents after the director removed the customary donut offerings. During the performance, actors forgot lines, tripped, and props malfunctioned at critical moments. After the first chaotic night, the donuts were restored to their rightful place, and the remainder of the performances went on without further issues.
Conclusion
The KiMo Theatre’s unique combination of architectural splendor and ghostly legends make it one of Albuquerque’s most fascinating landmarks. From Bobby’s playful spirit to the mysterious lady in a bonnet, the KiMo continues to captivate visitors with its blend of history and the supernatural. Whether you come for a performance or to experience the paranormal, the KiMo Theatre is truly one of a kind.
