Tag: The Velveteen Rabbit

The Velveteen Rabbit: A Heartwarming Story You Won’t Want to Miss at the Magik Theatre

Experience real love and connection with the return of Magik Theatre’s popular holiday season production of The Velveteen Rabbit. Photo: Bobby Foxx Photography, used with permission.

San Antonio, TX – Magik Theatre is delighted to reprise The Velveteen Rabbit, a timeless classic that captures the joy and warmth of the holidays. Recommended for audiences ages 5 and up, Magik’s adaptation of Margery Williams’ beloved children’s story follows the journey of a shy velveteen toy rabbit who longs to become real. Through his adventures with the Child, the Velveteen Rabbit learns about the transformative power of love and friendship. Running from November 23 through December 29, this heartwarming production is the perfect way to enjoy an enchanting holiday season, and Magik has plenty of related special events to make the experience all the more festive. (Magik Theatre, 2024)

Set in the cozy world of the Child, who receives the Velveteen Rabbit on Christmas morning, this touching tale follows the Child and their magical toys as they grapple with what it means to become ‘real.’ The Velveteen Rabbit, played by Ethan Hart, feels sad and forgotten as the Child (Maryann Valerio) marvels at fancier, more modern toys, but finds hope and friendship in the kind, wise Rocking Horse, played by Grace Lynn.

When a chance occurrence brings the Velveteen Rabbit back into the loving arms of the Child, the Velveteen Rabbit is delighted to become the Child’s favorite bedtime stuffy. But when the Child becomes ill, the Velveteen Rabbit must be separated from them, and this is where the Rabbit’s transformation begins.

To further the uplifting message and inspiring tale, Magik is pleased to present two special events: an opening day Party in the Park complete with live music, treats, and themed crafts, and its second annual Holiday Hop with pre-show holiday activities, photo opportunities, seasonal carols, and a gift drive. Little bookworms willing to scoot off Hemisfair campus, can catch a special story time at the Nowhere Bookshop for an engaging reading with the cast. All events offer magical ways to celebrate “the most wonderful time of the year!”

SPECIAL EVENTS AND PERFORMANCES
Opening Party in the Park | Saturday, November 23, 4:30p.m., show at 6p.m.
Start the merrymaking early with a FREE, family-friendly pre-show soiree on opening night. Kids can make their own rabbit with a special craft activity, and party goers can nibble on custom rabbit shaped cookies as they dance to the tunes of a live DJ. Those who stick around after Magik’s treasured holiday production of The Velveteen Rabbit can enjoy a cupcake to cap off a truly enchanting evening.

Story Time with the Cast of The Velveteen Rabbit | Tuesday, November 26, 4:30p.m.
Little literature lovers can meet the cast of Magik’s The Velveteen Rabbit at this special story time reading of the classic tale. The event takes place at best-selling author Jenny Lawson’s Nowhere Bookshop, located at 5154 Broadway, San Antonio, TX 78209.

Magik’s Annual Holiday Hop!| Saturday, December 14, 12:30p.m., show at 2p.m.
Join Magik for a heartwarming celebration that captures the true essence of the holiday season – Magik’s Second Annual Holiday Hop! Family-friendly, festive activities include writing letters to Santa, fun crafts, photo opportunities, carolers, and more. Embrace the spirit of giving by donating new toys, stuffed animals, books, or girls’ makeup to the toy drive benefiting local children’s cancer foundation Hope Hits Harder. After the activities, continue making holiday memories by enjoying a performance of The Velveteen Rabbit and meeting the cast. Capacity is limited so hop on these tickets now by visiting Magik Theatre online.

Special Performances:
Sensory-Friendly Performance | Saturday, November 30 at 10a.m.
Audience members on the autism spectrum and those with sensory sensitivities can take in a special performance of The Velveteen Rabbit designed just for them. Kids and adults are free to be themselves in this relaxed, judgment-free theatre experience that is a perfect introduction to attending a performance.

Pay What You Wish Performance | Sunday, December 1 at 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 December 1st.

ASL Interpreted Performance | Saturday, December 7 at 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.

Educator Appreciation Day | Sunday, December 8, 2024 at 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 20% off the regular ticket prices.

Military & First Responders Appreciation Day | Saturday, December 21, 2024 at 2p.m. (pre-show music at 1:30p.m.)
Service members with a valid military ID can purchase discounted $18 tickets and enjoy a special performance by the Honey Bs, an Andrews Sisters-style singing trio.

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. and Saturdays, 12p.m. – 4p.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 questions and further inquiries, contact Magik Theatre.

MAGIK THEATRE
A professional theatre for young audiences established in 1994, Magik Theatre’s mission is to create theatrical experiences that ignite imagination, spark curiosity, inspire empathy, and foster a lifetime love of learning in young people.

Photo: Magik Theatre, used with permission.

Magik Theatre: Celebrate 30 Years of Magik with the 24-25 Season

Magik Theatre explores friendship, learning, and growing up in a milestone year that debuts new programs and events to connect Magik lovers of all ages. Photo: Magik Theatre, used with permission.

Celebrating 30 years, more than 300 productions, and millions of audience members, Magik Theatre’s new season shows San Antonio’s beloved children’s theatre company still has that youthful glow. 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 Theatre, 2024)

The 2024-25 season continues its mission to create theatrical experiences that ignite imagination, spark curiosity, inspire empathy, and foster a lifetime love of learning in young people with a world premiere, an adaptation of Mo Willems’ wildly popular work, a bilingual journey into lotería land, and a cherished holiday tradition.

“This season’s shows are journeys of young people learning to read (Lyric and the Keys), discovering more about about family and best friends (¡Lotería: Game On! and Elephant and Piggie’s We Are in a Play!), and gaining the tools and confidence to make yourself real (The Velveteen Rabbit).”- Artistic Director Anthony Runfola

Responding to overwhelming community feedback, the organization is creating more ways to engage beyond taking in a show. Stay tuned for a growing slate of classes and school holiday workshops inspired by Magik’s acclaimed summer camps. The Richard Rosen Scholarship Fund, named for the Magik Theatre’s founder, will make these inspiring educational opportunities more accessible. In its inaugural year, the fund has already awarded $36,000 in scholarships.

Magik offers two touring productions to schools and other educational institutions that celebrate diverse reading journeys. Eddie and Vinnie, a popular past production featuring a main character with dyslexia, is touring this season with grant funding from the ArchPoint Group. Also on tour is Tomás and the Library Lady, a bilingual production based on an inspiring true story about the power of literacy to achieve your dreams. Educators are also encouraged to plan field trips to any of the 2024-25 season productions for a special student matinee, and Magik’s education department offers guides that align the lessons of each production with TEKS curriculum as well as digital resource guides.

Generous community partners make expanding Magik’s mission possible, and what better way to contribute than attending this year’s “A Night of Magik” gala on September 21? The fabulous fundraiser promises to transport guests with homages to Magik’s 30 year history and some truly hush-hush surprises. Plan to sleep in the next morning, you won’t want to miss the exclusive after party.

As always, Magik seeks to serve ALL children with Sensory-Friendly, Pay What You Wish, and American Sign Language Interpreted performances for each production. These measures are in place to create an inclusive and welcoming environment where children can develop a life-long love of theatre and believe in the wonder of Magik.

Magik Theatre Presents: 2024-2025 Season Performance times vary. Programs and dates are subject to change.

LYRIC AND THE KEYS
Book by Rozanne Shroeder-Arce
Music and lyrics by Jenn Hartmann Luck
Directed by Anthony Runfola

September 28 – October 13, 2024
Recommended for ages 7+

World Premiere: The commissioned musical tells an inventive tale that resonates with anyone who’s ever faced learning difficulties as a kid. Lyric, a second-grader struggling to read, finds an unexpected teacher in school janitor Mr. Hartley. With the help of his DIY junk robots, Mr. Hartley mentors Lyric, boosting her confidence to overcome her literacy challenges. Catchy melodies and a positive message celebrate believing in yourself and finding the ‘key’ to overcoming any challenge — even learning to read!

THE VELVETEEN RABBIT
By Margery Williams
Adapted by Michelle Hoppe-Long
Directed by Rosa Gardner

November 23 – December 29, 2024
Recommended for ages 5+

There’s no better time than the holidays to believe in a little magic. That’s why Magik Theatre is delighted to reprise “The Velveteen Rabbit,” a timeless classic that captures everything we love about the holiday season. This heartwarming play is based on the beloved children’s story and follows the journey of a shy toy rabbit made from velveteen who longs to become real. Through his adventures with the Boy, the Velveteen Rabbit learns about love, friendship, and the true meaning of being real. The play is set in a cozy and enchanting world and is full of touching moments that will leave audiences feeling inspired and uplifted.

ELEPHANT AND PIGGIE’S WE ARE IN A PLAY!
Based on the “Elephant and Piggie” books by Mo Willems, published by Hyperion Books for Children

Book and Lyrics by Mo Willems
Music by Deborah Wicks La Puma
Directed by Jenny Lavery

February 1 – March 23, 2025
Recommended for ages 3+

Gerald the Elephant and Piggie the Pig are “bestus” friends in this rollicking musical based on Mo Willems’ hilarious, award-winning books. When the pals embark on a perfect day out to a party hosted by three fun-loving singing squirrels, Elephant and Piggie realize they approach life’s uncertainties differently. Gerald is worried something may go wrong and ruin their friendship, while Piggie is happier and more excited than ever. And so begins a day when anything is possible, including catchy tunes, lively dances, and plenty of laughs.

¡LOTERÍA: GAME ON!
By Maybelle Reynoso
Directed by Ricky Araiza

May 3 – June 1, 2025
Recommended for ages 6+

Siblings Sam and Kris stumble into the enchanting world of lotería in this captivating, bilingual production both English and Spanish speakers can enjoy. When Sam and Kris discover their dad’s pillow fort is actually a portal into Lotería, and that he’s trapped there, the pair embark upon a thrilling rescue journey where they realize that the magical realm of Lotería has its own set of rules. Along the way they encounter familiar characters like La Rana, La Mano, and El Gallo.

2024-2025 TICKET OPTIONS
SEASON SUBSCRIPTION PRICING
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)
Season ticket holders will also have access to sneak peek performances, special VIP invitations and other surprises throughout the season. No fees to exchange unexpired tickets to another date. Expires June 1, 2025.

FLEX PASS PRICING
● Ten Flex Passes $190
A Flex Pass is a package of 10 tickets that can be used for any production at Magik Theatre. Flex passes can be used any way patrons wish throughout the season. Use them one or two at a time, or all together. No fees to exchange unexpired tickets to another date. Expires June 1, 2025.

SINGLE TICKETS
● $25 for adults
● $20 for children (ages 3-17), Military, Seniors, Educators & Students
● Children under 2 years old are free.

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. For questions and further inquiries, contact the Magik Theatre. 

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.

Magik Theatre presents The Velveteen Rabbit

Put some Magik in your holidays with The Velveteen Rabbit, a cherished holiday classic. Photo: Magik Theatre, used with permission.

The holidays are all about family, love, hope, and a little magic. Magik Theatre will celebrate all of that and more with its production of The Velveteen Rabbit, taking place from now until December 24, 2022. Written by Margery Williams and adapted by Michelle Hoppe-Long, this classic, heartwarming tale about a child’s favorite toy that comes to life has been delighting both the young and young-at-heart for 100 years, thanks to its timeless message. Revisit this family favorite for yourself, or share it with a whole new generation during the theatre’s special rendition. (Magik Theatre, 2022)

“There’s no better time than the holidays to add a little Magik to your life. And there’s no more magical story than that of The Velveteen Rabbit.” – Anthony Runfola, Artistic Director, Magik Theatre

From the time it was published in 1922, the story of The Velveteen Rabbit has touched the lives of readers young and old. It tells the story of a boy and his stuffed rabbit that, like many a beloved toy, grows more worn and bedraggled with love until one day, it becomes “real.” The story strikes a universal chord with its message of love and friendship, reminding us that it is only through vulnerability and opening ourselves to the connection that we become our authentic selves.

Just as the story of The Velveteen Rabbit has delighted generations of the same families for decades, so has Magik Theatre. Children who once filled the seats are now bringing their children and grandchildren to experience the joy of seeing the stories they love brought to life on stage by professional actors.

This production of The Velveteen Rabbit marks the directorial debut of one of Magik Theatre’s veteran actors, Rosa Gardner. A member of the company since 2016, Gardner has been entertaining audiences with her outstanding performances in Junie B. Jones: Toothless Wonder, Charlotte’s Web, Snow White, and Knufflebunny, to name a few. Now she is directing her own talented team. Rounding out the cast are John Michael Hoke as Nana and the Velveteen Rabbit, Alyssa Cavazos as The Child, and Alaia Adriana as Mother and The Fairy. The crew includes Stage Manager, Alyssa Snow, Scenic Design by Chris Boneta, Costume Design by Sarah Steele, Lighting Design by Armando Chavez, Sound Design by Carolyn Orosco, and Original Music and Arrangements by John Michael Hoke.

Magik Theatre is committed to educating through entertainment—and no child or family is ever left out. “We are here to make theatre accessible to every family and take away any barrier that exists,” says Villani. In keeping with that commitment, the 2022-23 season boasts some upgrades to include the following special performances below.

SPECIAL PERFORMANCES

American Sign Language Interpreted Performance
Saturday, November 26, 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.

Sensory-Friendly Performance
Saturday, December 3, 10:30a.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, we create 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 Performances
Friday, November 25, 2p.m. and Friday, December 16, 6:30p.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.

Mask Required Performances
Tuesday, November 22 at 10:30a.m., Saturday, December 3 at 2p.m. and Tuesday, December 20 at 2p.m. – If you would like to attend a mask-required performance, this option is for you. We have adopted a model that allows us to go above and beyond standard schedules. It also provides you with peace of mind knowing that all of our performers and staff continue to follow strict health and safety protocols including the option to select your experience while in the theatre.

2022-23 Season Subscriptions and Flex Passes are on sale now, priced at $48, $60, $75, and $87. Single Tickets are $18.50 for children (ages 2-17), Military, Seniors, and Educators | $22.50 for adults | Children under 2 years old are free. Season Subscriptions, Flex Passes, and Single 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 thru Friday. 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 to parties of ten or more people

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.