The Haunted History of Albuquerque’s KiMo Theatre: Ghosts, Tragedy, and the Stage That Never Sleeps

In the heart of downtown Albuquerque, wrapped in vivid Pueblo Deco architecture and crowned with a façade of ochre terracotta and colorful motifs, stands the legendary KiMo Theatre. Built in 1927, the KiMo is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks—a dazzling blend of Art Deco and Native American design—but beneath its ornate flourishes lies a history steeped in tragedy, mystery, and ghostly lore. For decades, cast members, employees, and patrons have reported encounters with something otherworldly inside its walls.

Today, the KiMo Theatre is as well known for its paranormal reputation as it is for its vibrant community performances. This is the story of how a beloved Southwestern landmark became one of New Mexico’s most famous haunted destinations.

A Brilliant Beginning: The Birth of an Architectural Gem

The KiMo Theatre opened its doors during the golden age of movie palaces. Commissioned by entrepreneur Oreste Bachechi, the building was designed by Carl Boller of the Boller Brothers—masters of opulent cinema architecture. But Boller didn’t want another cookie-cutter theater. He envisioned something uniquely Southwestern, something that would celebrate the region’s Indigenous cultures and desert mystique.

The result was striking:

1. Vibrant murals depicting Pueblo storytelling traditions
2. Fierce buffalo and Native warrior motifs carved into the walls
3. Niches adorned with skulls, shields, kachina dolls, and geometric patterns
4. A lobby resembling a ceremonial kiva

But even the most breathtaking buildings can carry dark stories.

The 1951 Tragedy: The Death of Little Bobby Darnall

The KiMo’s enduring ghost story begins in 1951, during a showing of Abbott and Costello Meet the Invisible Man. That evening, an exploding boiler in the theater’s lobby rocked the building. Among the injured was six-year-old Bobby Darnall, who tragically died from his wounds shortly after the accident.

His death shocked the community—and according to lore, it also left a lingering spiritual imprint on the theater.

The Ghost of Bobby: A Mischievous Spirit in the Balcony

Soon after the tragedy, strange occurrences began to unfold.

Actors reported missing props, malfunctioning lights, and mysterious tapping sounds during rehearsals. Projectionists insisted they heard tiny footsteps running across the balcony when no children were present. Usherettes spoke of a small figure darting behind seats—only for him to vanish when they approached.

But the most famous tale involves doughnuts.

The Doughnut Ritual

For decades, performing troupes at the KiMo followed an unusual tradition: before opening night, they would leave a plate of fresh doughnuts backstage for Bobby’s spirit. The ritual supposedly kept the mischievous ghost calm and prevented technical mishaps.

Legend has it that in years when performers forgot the offering, the ghost would retaliate with:

1. Flickering lights
2. Falling equipment
3. Props disappearing mid-show
4. Sudden sound system failures

Some companies swore the ritual was essential to a smooth performance.

Whether superstition or something more, the doughnut tradition became part of the KiMo’s sacred lore—so much so that theater staff once removed the offerings to discourage ghost tourism, only for performers to reinstate them in secret.

Paranormal Investigators and The KiMo’s Infamous Reputation

The KiMo Theatre has been featured in countless ghost tours, documentaries, and paranormal investigations. Ghost hunters frequently describe:

1. Cold spots in the balcony
2. Shadows moving along the stage curtains
3. The distinct sound of a child giggling
4. EMF spikes near the lobby’s restored boiler area

Some investigators report capturing EVPs of a child’s voice, though skeptics argue the sounds could be misinterpretations or echoes from the street outside.

Still, the consistency of experiences—especially among performers working late at night—keeps the legend alive.

Restoration and Resurgence: A Living Landmark

The KiMo fell into decline in the mid-20th century, nearly meeting the fate of many historic theatres—abandonment or demolition. Fortunately, a dedicated preservation movement in the 1970s saved the building. Today, after multiple phases of restoration, the KiMo stands proudly revitalized.

Visitors now attend:

1. Film series and indie screenings
2. Ballet performances and plays
3. Concerts and local cultural events

And of course…

ghost tours that explore its haunted corners.

Despite modernization, the building’s spiritual lore hasn’t faded. Many claim Bobby remains very much at home among the shadows and footlights.

Why the KiMo’s Ghost Story Endures

There’s something compelling about the KiMo Theatre’s haunting. It isn’t sinister or violent—it’s tender, melancholic, and strangely endearing. A young boy who loved movies, whose life was cut short in a place of joy, continues to make his playful presence known.

Unlike darker hauntings, Bobby’s story feels like part of the theater’s heartbeat.

And maybe that’s why the KiMo’s haunted reputation has survived for more than 70 years:

because it intertwines tragedy, artistry, and the timeless magic of the stage.

Visiting the KiMo Theatre Today

If you ever find yourself in Albuquerque, the KiMo Theatre should be high on your list. Whether you’re attending a show, joining a ghost tour, or simply admiring the building’s extraordinary architecture, it’s easy to feel the past pressing close.

Listen carefully.

You might hear little Bobby’s footsteps in the balcony.

You might feel a tug at a prop.

Or—if you’re a performer—don’t be surprised if someone reminds you…

Don’t forget the doughnuts.