‘Carmela Full of Wishes’ Launches Magik’s Gala New Season Oct. 14
Based on the best-selling book, this acclaimed production celebrates family, dreamers and the unexpected ‘magik’ of hope.
“I am so pleased to share this story of a young Latina deciding how best to spend a birthday wish while finding magic in her everyday life. While Carmela’s ultimate wish concerns reuniting with her deported father, our heartwarming production highlights optimism and comedy. Carmela Full of Wishes is a story that will resonate deeply with the San Antonio community and anyone who believes in the power of hope.”
— Anthony Runfola, Magik Theatre’s Artistic Director
Magik Theatre launches its new season by celebrating imagination and big dreams with a production that’s sure to enchant anyone who’s 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 Oct. 14-22.
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 happens 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?
About the team
Carmela Full of Wishes is adapted by Alvaro Saar Rios and directed by Claudia de Vasco. The cast includes several debut performances, including Clarissa Ramos in the title role, Ernesto Dominguez as 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!
“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,” says Ms. de Vasco. “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.”
More Magik Activities
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.
Story Time at Hemisfair | Tuesday, Oct. 10, 10:00 a.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 theater’s opening weekends with Magik’s Education Manager, Lissette Belmontes, kicking off the series as she reads from Carmela Full of Wishes next Tuesday. And 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, Oct. 14, 12:30 p.m. — show at 2:00 p.m.
This season, Magik Theatre celebrates each opening performance with free themed art activities, festive food and drinks, and complimentary live music just outside the theater to create the perfect family outing! Patrons won’t want to miss this special event series, kicking off with Carmela Full of Wishes, when Hemisfair and Magik host artist Aminah Dece to 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.
Dia de los Muertos Fest Free Performance of Carmela Full of Wishes | Saturday, Oct. 28, 10 a.m.
During the 11th annual Dia 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. Fest attendees are also welcome to visit the theater’s fully stocked concession stand to purchase affordable refreshments. No admission ticket is required. While there, guests can visit Magik’s ofrenda celebrating the deceased loved ones of the Magik Theatre staff.
2023-2024 TICKET OPTIONS
SEASON SUBSCRIPTION PRICING
- Four Show Subscription — $66 per person (Savings of 34% off single ticket prices)
- Three Show Subscription — $54 per person (Savings of 28% off single ticket prices)
Magik’s new season brings exciting new benefits! The theater is introducing Magik Circle, which includes exclusive perks for season subscribers such as discounts on additional single tickets, merchandise and camps and academies. 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.
FLEX PASS PRICING
- Ten Flex Passes — $175
- 20 Flex Passes — $330
A Flex Pass is a package of 10 or 20 tickets that can be used for any production at Magik Theatre. Flex Passes can be used any way patrons wish to throughout the season. Use them one or two at a time or all together. No fees to exchange unexpired tickets to another date. Applicable to public performances only.
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, 9 am – 5 pm.
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 tickets@magiktheatre.org
Feature photo: Clarissa Ramos as Carmela (ccourtesy Magik Theatre).
