Dog Man: The Musical 2023 Off-Broadway Cast. L-R: L.R. Davidson, Crystal Sha’nae, Brian Owen, DeShawn Bowens, Jamie LaVerdiere, Dan Rosales. Photo: Jeremy Daniel, used with permission.
The Majestic Theatre will present TheaterWorksUSA’s NY Times Critic’s Pick, Dog Man: The Musical based on the popular book series by Dav Pilkey. Dog Man: The Musical will be presented on January 25 and 26, 2025 at The Majestic Theatre in San Antonio, TX. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased online (Majestic Theatre, 2024)
Based on the worldwide bestselling Dog Man book series by Dav Pilkey, Dog Man: The Musical is a hilarious and heartwarming production following the chronicles of Dog Man, who with the head of a dog and the body of a policeman, loves to fight crime and chew on the furniture. But while trying his best to be a good boy, can he save the city from Flippy the cyborg fish and his army of Beasty Buildings? Can he catch Petey, the world’s most evil cat, who has cloned himself to exact revenge on the doggy do-gooder? And will George and Harold finish their show before lunchtime?? Find out in this epic musical adventure featuring the hilarity and heart of beloved characters from Dav Pilkey, the creator of Captain Underpants. Recommended for ages 5+.
“Dog Man: The Musical surpasses my highest expectations. It is the ‘Perfect Mash-up’ of memorable music, humor, and love.” – Dog Man creator Dav Pilkey
Dog Man: The Musical has a book and lyrics by Kevin Del Aguila, and music by Brad Alexander, with original direction and choreography by Jen Wineman, scenic design by Timothy R. Mackabee, costume design by Heidi Leigh Hanson, lighting design by David Lander, and sound design by Emma Wilk.
TheaterWorksUSA has led the Theater for Young and Family Audiences movement in New York City and across North America for over half a century. At TWUSA, we believe that access to art—and theater, in particular—is vital for our youth. Since 1967, the 501(c)3 not-for-profit has captured the imaginations of 100 million new and veteran theatergoers with an award-winning repertoire of over 140 original plays and musicals.
The Historic Majestic Theatre is located at 224 E. Houston Street in the heart of downtown San Antonio, Texas. Built in 1929 by John Eberson for Interstate Theaters, the Majestic was intended to be the most modern building in South Texas and was the first in the state to be totally air-conditioned.
The Majestic remains one of the finest examples of atmospheric theaters ever built, receiving National Historic Landmark status in 1993. The Majestic Theatre is home to the Broadway in San Antonio series, along with a variety of live entertainment experiences. For more information visit the Majestic Theatre.
‘The BFG’ serves as the season closer and kick off to the Magik Theatre’s 30th anniversary year. Photo: Magik Theatre, used with permission.
Get carried away by The BFG, Magik Theatre’s new adaptation of the beloved novel by Roald Dahl. The hilarious play about a 24-foot-tall Big Friendly Giant and his young friend Sophie both closes out Magik’s 2023-24 season and ignites the theatre’s 30th birthday year, complete with a truly gigantic opening night celebration. (Magik Theatre, 2024)
When young orphan Sophie accidentally encounters a giant, she is understandably frightened for her life. Thankfully the giant in question happens to be the BFG – the Big Friendly Giant – who doesn’t eat humans and instead spends his time catching dreams in Dream Country in order to give the good ones to children and destroy the nightmares. But the BFG has a problem, his five giant neighbors, who bully him when not stealing humans to eat, decide to head to England for a dinner of British children. With Sophie’s help, the BFG goes on an incredible journey to Buckingham Palace and convinces the Queen to save England from these absolutely unfriendly giants. Adapted by David Wood, Magik Theatre’s production of ‘The BFG’ is made possible in part by a generous grant from the Russell Hill Rogers Fund for the Arts.
The Big Friendly Giant is brought to life by Mason Anthony Ortiz who is joined by his little friend, Clarissa Cortez as Sophie. The rest of the cast includes Trisch Moy, Queen of Sweden, Amy Bouquet, Queen of England, Michael Robets as Mr. Tibbs, Stephanie Higley as Head of the Air Force, Katrin Blucker Ludwig as Head of the Army and Lauren Campion as Swing.
For 30 years, Magik Theatre has been taking its audiences on whiz banging adventures to the BFG’s Dream Country, to jungles, to pirate ships, and so much more. Building off of founder Richard Rosen’s commitment to creating and producing theatre that captivates young audiences, Magik has staged nearly 300 productions, many adapted from beloved classic and contemporary children’s stories. From modest beginnings as a family-run theatre troupe in 1994, Magik quickly became a major player in San Antonio’s performing arts scene, serving some 44,000 patrons annually from their home in iconic Hemisfair. Magik reaches beyond the traditional stage too, creating educational guides for field trip performances, inspiring through a perennially popular summer camp, and empowering the youth of the Cindi Taylor Krier Juvenile Correctional and Treatment Facility with opportunities for creative self-expression.
Magik’s devoted fans know that each play run comes with a slew of special events, including whimsical opening day parties. The 30th birthday party celebration and Opening Night Party in the Park took place last Saturday, but if you missed it, there are still plenty of other events and performances scheduled.
SPECIAL EVENTS AND PERFORMANCES Educator Appreciation Performance | Sunday May 12, 3p.m. Educators and school faculty are eligible for one free ticket to this performance with proof of I.D. Additional tickets are available to purchase for these performances at a discount of 50% off the regular ticket prices with promo code THANKYOU50.
Sensory-Friendly Performance | Saturday May 18, 10a.m. Audience members on the autism spectrum and those with sensory issues can take in a special performance of The BFG designed just for them. Kids and adults are free to be themselves in this relaxed, judgment-free theatre experience.
Pay What You Wish Performance | Sunday, May 26, 3p.m. As part of Magik Theatre’s mission to make theatre accessible to everyone, the organization holds one donation-based performance. Tickets are only available at the door on Sunday, May 26.
American Sign Language Interpreted Performance | Saturday, May 25, 2p.m. Patrons who communicate with ASL can attend this performance featuring Robert Cardoza, the San Antonio theatre community’s primary American Sign Language interpreter.
TICKET OPTIONS BFG SINGLE TICKETS ● $25 for adults ● $20 for children (ages 3-17), Military, Seniors, Educators & Students
NEW 2024-2025 SEASON SUBSCRIPTIONS Four Show Subscription $70 per person (Savings of 30% off single ticket prices)Three Show Subscription $55.50 per person (Savings of 26% off single ticket prices
Magik Theatre creates theatrical experiences that ignite imagination, spark curiosity, inspire empathy, and foster a lifetime love of learning in young people.
Get on board ‘Don’t Let The Pigeon Drive The Bus!,’ a rollicking musical based on Mo Willems’ contemporary classic. Photo: Magik Theatre, used with permission.
Coming up at the Magik Theatre, hop on an unforgettable ride in ‘Don’t Let The Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical!,’ a hilarious play based on the beloved book by Mo Willems. When the Bus Driver has a crisis that threatens to make her passengers late, a determined Pigeon sees his chance to take the wheel. It’s up to the audience to convince him that even though it’s not the best idea, there is something he can do. With catchy songs, colorful characters, and a heartwarming message about responsibility, this production promises to be a joyous experience for young audiences and adults alike. Even VIA, San Antonio’s transit authority, is joining in the fun with a bus-themed opening night party at Hemisfair Park to get the show rolling. (Magik Theatre, 2024)
Featuring a hilarious script co-written by Willems and Tom Warburton, catchy songs by Deborah Wicks La Puma, and an innovative mix of actors and puppets, ‘Don’t Let The Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical!’ plays off Willems’ madcap rhythm and playful vibe.
“In order to give the musical a dramatic arc, Willems has explored WHY the Pigeon cannot drive the bus. He also creates conflict around the Pigeon finding his ‘thing.’ Everyone seems to have one except for the Pigeon. Can the bus driver help the Pigeon figure it out?” – Anthony Runfola, Magik Theatre Artistic Director
Local musical theatre veteran Heather Hooten and Charlie Smith play the wily Pigeon and put-upon Bus Driver, respectively. Costume designer Marshall Chase and accomplished set and lighting designer Katherine Stepanek recreate Willems’ signature visual style for the stage. The result is a gleeful, engaging performance sure to delight fans of musical theater and Mo Willems alike. As always, local students are well taken care of, with matinee performances and a digital resource guide customized for educators. Suitable for children ages 4 and up, ‘Don’t Let The Pigeon Drive The Bus! The Musical!’ is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI), who also supplies all authorized performance materials.
Special Events and Performances Opening Night Party in the Park | Saturday, February 10, 4:30p.m., show at 6p.m. Get your little ones in their finest duds and frocks to join the flock (and Pigeon himself) as Magik rolls out the red carpet for this big shot event. Guests will enjoy live music by Billy Ray Shepherd, interactive crafts, live pigeons, raffle prizes, and a special treat courtesy of party partner Hemisfair. Thanks to show sponsor VIA Metropolitan Transit Authority, pint-sized bus enthusiasts can explore VIA’s fully restored, vintage 1966 GMC Dreamliner bus parked outside the theatre, meet the organization’s mascot Primo, and grab a snack from VIA’s bus shaped Grillig food truck.
In celebration of Black History Month, Magik goers can take in VIA’s temporary exhibit highlighting the role of transit in the Civil Rights Movement and the many African American trailblazers whose contributions made a long-lasting impact on the industry. At 5:30p.m., special guest Jeffrey C. Arndt, VIA President and CEO will start the journey with a special story time reading of Willem’s cherished tale, ‘Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus!’
Educator Appreciation Performance | Sunday, February 11, 3p.m. Educators and school faculty are eligible for one free ticket to this performance with proof of I.D. Additional tickets are available to purchase for these performances at a discount of 50% off the regular ticket prices with promo code THANKYOU50.
Sensory-FriendlyPerformance | Saturday, February 24, 10a.m. Audience members on the autism spectrum and those with sensory issues can take in a special performance designed just for them. Kids and adults are free to be themselves in this relaxed, judgment-free theatre experience.
Pay What You Wish Performance | Sunday, February 25, 3p.m. As part of Magik Theatre’s mission to make theatre accessible to everyone, the organization holds one donation-based performance. Tickets are only available at the door on February 25.
American Sign LanguageInterpreted Performance | Saturday, March 9, 2p.m. Patrons who communicate with ASL can attend this performance featuring Robert Cardoza, the San Antonio theatre community’s primary American Sign Language interpreter.
Transit Driver Appreciation Discounts | Sunday, March 17, 3p.m. (Closing Day) and Beyond Magik celebrates San Antonio’s hard-working transit drivers with special discounts on its closing day performance, Sunday, March 17. With proof of I.D., all transit drivers (including taxi, trolley, bus and rideshare drivers as well as pilots) are eligible for a 15% discount off the regular ticket price by using promo code TDAD15. It’s Magik’s way of kicking off Transit Appreciation Day, celebrated every March 18, to thank and appreciate transit drivers around the nation.
As a special thank you to the show sponsor, VIA Metropolitan Transit Authority, all VIA employees are eligible for 20% off the regular ticket price through the run of the show by using discount code VIA20 with proof of I.D.
Purchase bundles, 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. For further inquiries, contact 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)
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.
Based on the best-selling book ‘Carmela Full of Wishes,’ the acclaimed production celebrates family, dreamers, and the unexpected ‘magik’ of hope. Photo: Magik Theatre, used with permission.
Magik Theatre starts its new season by celebrating imagination and big dreams with a production sure to thrill anyone who has ever sent wishes into the wind by blowing on a dandelion. Based on the celebrated book of the same title by Newbery Medal and Caldecott Honor-winning author Matt de la Peña and illustrator Christian Robinson, Carmela Full of Wishes runs from October 14-22. In the spirit of wishing and dreaming big this season, Magik announces a delightful new collaboration with Hemisfair to include a new series of exciting events and special performances designed to charm young audiences at every turn. Ticket information is available online. (Magik Theatre, 2023)
THE MAGIK OF WISHES On her seventh birthday, Carmela wakes up thrilled to finally be old enough to join her big brother on their family errands. As they visit the local lavanderia, bodega, and various neighbors, Carmela stumbles upon a lone dandelion growing in the pavement. Before she can blow away its white fluff, her brother reminds her to make a wish. Full of hopes and dreams, Carmela wishes for a candy machine and a fancy bed for Mamí like the ones at the hotel where she works. But her dandelion is crushed before she can make her biggest wish, for Papí to come back home soon. Can her brother help her to believe in her dreams once again?
“Matt de la Peña’s book tells a beautiful story of a girl who discovers the magic and wonder of her wishes in the real world: in her community, in nature, and in her family. Our production keeps the heart of this story alive while also reflecting the culture of the South Texas community in a show that is sure to entertain and inspire.” – Director Claudia de Vasco.
BEHIND THE MAGIK Adapted by Alvaro Saar Rios and directed by Claudia de Vasco, the cast includes several debut performances to include Clarissa Ramos in the title role, with Ernesto Dominguez playing Carmela’s brother and Alberto Ramirez Jr. as Papí, Senor Lopez, and Flower Boy. Crystal M. Bratton returns as Carmela’s mother. Lucian Hernandez and Stormie Brennan bring Christian Robinson’s iconic illustrations to life via set design and costumes. Back by popular demand, aspiring actors and family fans can attend a post-performance meet and greet after every show.
Magik Theatre offers amazing resources for educators via field trips to the full live performance as well as educator workshops. This season, “Magik on the Road” will bring Carmela Full of Wishes directly to schools and other interested groups. Each production is accompanied by a TEKS-based interactive classroom resource guide filled with enjoyable, accessible activities related to the performance, creating an unforgettable learning experience without ever having to leave the school.
Magik Story Time at Hemisfair | Tuesday, October 10, 10a.m. Magik Theatre and Hemisfair announce a new installation of Hemisfair’s weekly Story Time with special guests from Magik Theatre reading from each production’s themed book. The series takes place in Yanaguana Garden each Tuesday before the theatre’s opening weekends with Magik’s Education Manager, Lissette Belmontes kicking off the series as she reads from “Carmela Full of Wishes” on Tuesday, October 10. To make little wishes come true, Hemisfair will gift 20 free copies of the book to its first 20 Story Time guests.
Magik Theatre Opening Day Party in the Park| Saturday, October 14, 12:30p.m., show at 2p.m. Ideally situated in San Antonio’s iconic Hemisfair, this season Magik Theatre celebrates each opening performance with free themed art activities, festive food and drinks, and complimentary live music just outside the theatre to create the perfect family outing. Patrons will not want to miss this special event series, kicking off with Carmela Full of Wishes when Hemisfair and Magik host artist Aminah Dece will provide an interactive dandelion craft, tunes by DJ Mayhem, Panderia Jimenez’s SA-famous conchas and hojarascas, and aguas frescas courtesy of Paleteria San Antonio.
Muertos Fest Free Performance of Carmela Full of Wishes| Saturday, October 28, 10a.m. During the 11th annual Día de los Muertos Fest at Hemisfair, festival attendees will have the opportunity to attend a free performance of Carmela Full of Wishes at Magik Theatre on a first-come, first-served basis. No reservation is required. Muertos Fest tip: Fest attendees are also welcome to visit the theatre’s fully stocked concession stand to purchase affordable refreshments, no admission ticket required. While there, guests can visit Magik’s ofrenda celebrating the deceased loved ones of the Magik Theatre staff.
Sensory-Friendly Performance | Saturday, October 21, 10a.m. Designed with both children and adults on the autism spectrum, and those with sensory sensitivities in mind. Our goal is a relaxed and judgment-free theatre experience where audiences can sing, laugh, and dance.
American Sign Language Interpreted Performance | Saturday, October 21, 2p.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.
A professional theatre for young audiences established in 1994, Magik Theatre’s mission is to use the power of theatre to create Magikal storytelling for children that Activates imagination, Grows young minds, and Inspires creativity and a love of learning that is the Key to a more literate future for our community.
The Lightning Thief goes out with a bang during the closing weekend. Win big with Percy Jackson trivia night and cast meet and greets. Photo: Magik Theatre, used with permission.
This summer, The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical hit the Magik Theatre with a bang, filling the theatre with sellout crowds and rave reviews. And like a flash, it is almost gone but there is still time to catch the mythical adaptation of San Antonio native Rick Riordan’s extraordinary bestseller with all the action and excitement Percy Jackson fans love. Closing weekend hits August 4 – 6 with an edge of your seat, interactive Trivia Night plus Meet and Greets with the cast and crew all weekend long. (Magik Theatre, 2023)
Know a thing or two about half-bloods, gods and monsters? Then you do not want to miss Magik Theatre’s Percy Jackson Trivia Night taking place this Friday, August 4 at 6:30p.m. Percy Jackson fans can engage in a battle of wits with trivia questions based on The Lightning Thief, the first book of the Percy Jackson series. Host Venny Mortimer will engage the crowd with questions only true Percy fans can answer. Do you know what kind of creature Percy’s best friend, Grover, is? Or how about the color of food Percy’s mother always cooks for him? If so, then you just might be the hero of the night and take home one of many trivia prizes up for grabs. And the fun does not stop there. During closing weekend, guests can meet the cast and crew after each show and take pictures with their favorite characters, Percy, Grover, AnnaBeth, Mr. Brunner, Auntie M, and more.
Percy Jackson Trivia Night Friday, August 4, 6:30p.m. (Just before the 7p.m. show)
Meet and Greets with the Cast and Crew Friday, August 4 – 6 (Just after the show, all closing weekend long)
Magik Theatre 420 South Alamo San Antonio, TX 78205
Trivia Night and Cast and Crew Meet and Greets are Included with the Price of Admission during closing weekend on the dates specified above. Tickets are available online or by calling (210) 227-2751. You can also purchase at the box office, 420 S. Alamo, from 9a.m.- 5p.m., Monday through Friday.
The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical. Photo: Lynn Lane, used with permission.
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