The Velveteen Rabbit returns to the Magik Theatre

Cherished children’s story The Velveteen Rabbit returns for some holiday ‘magik.’ Photo: Magik Theatre, used with permission.

Back by popular demand this holiday season is the delightful and heartwarming retelling of the classic children’s story, The Velveteen Rabbit. Magik Theatre presents this timeless tale from November 18 through December 24, 2023 with plenty of special events to welcome families into the cozy, magical world of a little one and their beloved Christmas gift. (Magik Theatre, 2023)

Written by Margery Williams and adapted by Michelle Hoppe-Long, a young child awakens on Christmas morning to discover a stuffed velveteen rabbit under the tree. As the Child’s new favorite toy, the shy rabbit’s appearance becomes worn and shabby from play, and a wonderful change begins to happen. Through his adventures with the Child, the Velveteen Rabbit learns about love and friendship, and the true meaning of being real. Don’t miss this inspiring, uplifting fable that so perfectly captures the spirit of the holiday season.

According to Artistic Director Anthony Runfola, the biggest change to Magik’s production of their beloved holiday tradition is a brand-new cast. “This alone brings a whole new energy and sensibility to The Velveteen Rabbit that will sweep audiences off their feet,” says Runfola. Notably, this year Clarissa Cortez takes on the role of “the Child,” originally written in the book as “the Boy.” Mason Anthony Ortiz plays the beloved, titular stuffed animal, while Amy Bouquet and Grace Featherston join the cast in several roles, from Mother and Nana to rabbits to toys come to life.

Special Events and Performances:

STORY TIME with Ms. Kim and Magik Theatre at Hemisfair | Tuesday, November 14, 10a.m.
Magik Theatre and Hemisfair announce a new installation of Hemisfair’s weekly Story Time. The series takes place in Yanaguana Garden each Tuesday before the theatre’s opening weekends with beloved educator Ms. Kim reading from each production’s themed book, in this case “The Velveteen Rabbit.” To make little wishes come true, Hemisfair will give away 20 free copies of the book to its first 20 Story Time guests.

Opening Night PARTY IN THE PARK | Saturday, November 18, 4:30p.m., show at 6p.m.
Leap into The Velveteen Rabbit with a free, family-friendly fiesta at Hemisfair before opening night. Guests can transform themselves by creating bunny ear headbands and cute rabbit face paint by Sparrow Face Painting. Saxophonist Noah Peterson provides entertainment while sugar fiends young and not-so-young decorate bunny cupcakes provided by Asukar founder and pastry chef Adesuwa Elaiho.

Introducing Magik Theatre’s First Annual HOLIDAY HOP! |Saturday, December 9, 12:30p.m., show at 2p.m.
Get into the giving spirit during Magik Theatre’s first annual Holiday Hop, which will collect donations of new, warm socks for those in need. Each ticket includes access to festive pre-show activities like photos with Santa (the first photo is free, additional copies available for purchase) and cookies and cocoa. After taking in the 2p.m. show, holiday hoppers are invited to a special ‘meet and greet’ with The Velveteen Rabbit cast after the performance. Savor the season by writing letters to Santa, creating keepsake ornaments, and giving the gift of toasty toes. Early bird tickets are $40 for adults and $30 for children. General admission is $50 for adults and $40 for kids. Capacity is limited so hop on these tickets now.

Sensory-Friendly Performance | Saturday, December 2, 10a.m.
Sensory-friendly performances are designed to create a welcoming environment for people who are on the autism spectrum or who have other sensory sensitivities. By modifying elements of the production to accommodate individuals with sensory needs, Magik Theatre creates a welcoming space where families and friends of those with autism or other disabilities can enjoy an authentic performance experience together.

Pay What You Wish Performance | Sunday, December 3, 3p.m.
Magik’s way of giving back to the community and providing an opportunity for families to experience live theatre with a donation of any amount.

American Sign Language Interpreted Performance | Saturday, December 16, 2 p.m.
Robert Cardoza, the San Antonio theatre community’s primary sign language interpreter, will be available during this performance for patrons that require ASL as their primary form of communication.

2023-2024 TICKET OPTIONS
SEASON SUBSCRIPTION PRICING
Three Show Subscription $54 per person (Savings of 28% off single ticket prices)

FLEX PASS PRICING
Ten (10) Flex Passes $175
Twenty (20) Flex Passes $330

SINGLE TICKETS
$25 for adults
$20 for children (ages 2-17), Military, Seniors, Educators & Students

Purchase season subscriptions, flex passes and single tickets online, via phone (210) 227-2751, and in person at Magik Theatre’s Box Office (420 S Alamo, 78205). Box Office hours are Monday-Friday, 9a.m. – 5p.m.. If a child under 2 uses a seat, even a car or booster seat, the patron must pay for a general admission ticket. Group rates are available for parties of ten or more people.

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