THE OBSERVATION BOOTH
OP / ED & PHOTO CREDITS ANDREA DIALECT
First encounter… I do not remember all the specifics. but I am sure he would. That was Jim. Sharp. Present. Super intelligent. Well-spoken, to say the least. A man full of life, laughter, stories, and the kind of conversation that could flip from jokes to something that made you sit back and deep think. He was one of the few in my life that when he spoke my mouth would water as I nibbled on all that he knew.
REMEMBERING JIM “BOBO” ROBINSON
Jim BoBo Robinson – James H. Robinson, Jr.
Birth date – December 9th – Born in Sao Paulo Brazil / Language spoken – English, Brazilian Portuguese
Founder of Whistle Town Circus /Magician and Puppeteer
He was not just “the puppeteer, a magician and the clown” He was magic; he pulled strings that tugged hearts. He showed up with puppets, tricks, laughter, and imagination. The kind of art that leaves a mark because it meets people where they are, especially children.
Because of that amongst many others his name will be remembered with respect, joy and gratitude.
MOMENTS OF SILENCE
This is a tribute to my dear, dear friend Jim “Bobo” Robinson.
I just stumbled upon the news of his passing, and my heart is broken.
My granddaughter’s birthday is this month, and when my daughter mentioned wanting a puppeteer for entertainment, I already knew the man for the job “Jim!” Oh my God, I hadn’t spoken to my boy in quite some time.
The last time we spoke, our conversation was filled with laughter, future projects, occasional meetups, and possibility. That is what makes this hurt even more. Sometimes we take for granted that the people we love are simply out there doing their thing. No news is good news. But in this instance, it was not.
Who would have known it had already been well beyond three years since we last spoke. But face to face? Shamefully I don’t remember when.
I wish I could have given you a proper goodbye. I wish there had been one more call, one more laugh, one more deep dive conversation, one more chance to appreciate you. You have been gone three years. Three years Mister.
Thankfully, our memories shall be my saving grace.
Jim “Bobo” Robinson was more than an entertainer. He was a puppeteer, a magician, a creative spirit, a thinker a beautiful soul who sprinkled joy from his hands and wisdom and love through his words.
I am going to miss you. I already do.
Your life story shall carry on always.
Sleep well, my dear friend.
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DID YOU KNOW…
Jim “Bobo” Robinson, also known through Whistle Town Circus and Magic of Blaze, was a beloved entertainer whose work touched children, families, community gatherings, and creative spaces throughout New Jersey. Known as a magician, puppeteer, clown, storyteller, and family entertainer, Jim brought wonder, laughter, and presence into rooms where joy was needed.
