Every Little Thing They Do Is Magic
January 31, 2020 - San Antonio
Do you believe in magic? The talented Rudy Ramirez plays four colorful characters in The Magical Piñata. Photo: The Magik Theatre.
Article By: Jade Esteban Estrada - Writer, San Antonio Sentinel
The Magical Piñata, a bilingual musical for young audiences, opened last week at the Magik Theatre.
Karen Zacarías’ story within a story unfolds when Cucha (Molly Martinez-Collins), a young Mexican girl, complains about the mundanity of her birthday gifts. Her tantrum is overheard by Señor Cumpleaños (Gumecindo “Gino” Rivera), a mysterious serenading gentleman who would be worthy of a place at the Mad Hatter’s table with his colorful suit and flamboyant birthday cake hat. In exchange for her unwanted presents, Señor Cumpleaños offers her a gift that he believes she would enjoy much more. Eager to upgrade, Cucha agrees to the swap. But as soon as he disappears, she realizes that she’s been duped: the touted gift is nothing more than a plain clay pot. Her possession of this pot, however, transports her to a utopian jungle where she encounters three enchanted creatures (Rudy Ramirez) who befriend her along the way. Not everyone has the best intentions in this curious dreamland. A wicked Monkey King (Nicolas R. Valdez) and his sidekick (Michelle Bortoni) are aware that whoever holds the pot would be able to rule the kingdom. Towards the end of Cucha’s adventure, she learns about the importance of appreciating simple things, embraces her cultural pride and finally realizes the value of sharing.
The story concludes with an entertaining explanation of the piñata-hitting ritual.
The artful playground created by set designer Curtis Ashby and Michael Ciaramitaro’s costumes gave this production a level of surrealism that was quite thrilling. Deborah Wicks La Puma’s music, which was beautifully performed by Mariachi Azteca de America and the actors, was energetic and uplifting.
Although this show is boldly bilingual, speakers (and understanders) of both English and Spanish would be able to enjoy the rich storyline. Happily, the linguistic switching is fairly quick-paced in consideration of those who are fluent in both languages.
The multitalented Valdez gave powerful performances as both the Father and the Monkey King, while Rivera, the founder and director of Mariachi Azteca de America, seemed to be in his element in this well-directed and worthwhile musical.
The Magical Piñata plays January 24-February 15 at The Magik Theatre in historic Hemisfair Park.
Jade Esteban Estrada covers arts and entertainment for the San Antonio Sentinel. Email him at jade@sasentinel.com.