Magik Theatre bringing Lotería game to the stage in bilingual play
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The show poster, left, and actors posing. Images: Courtesy of Mewborne Photography
Magik Theatre is bringing two bilingual productions to Spanish- and English-speaking San Antonio children.
Why it matters: Kids who learn two languages are set up to develop strong thinking skills and ties to their families, cultures and communities.
- Research shows that kids who see themselves represented in media can have better self-esteem and identity development.
Zoom in: The mainstage play "¡Lotería: Game On!" runs Saturday through May 31 for the first time in Texas. It brings the traditional Mexican card game, which is similar to bingo, to the stage for children ages 6 and up.
- In the play, Mexican American siblings Sam and Kris try to rescue their father from the mysterious realm of Lotería after he disappears through a pillow-fort portal.
- The duo encounter characters based on Lotería cards, like La Rana, El Gallo and La Mano. They have to outsmart the game's rules.
- Magik's touring production, "Tomás and the Library Lady," is also bilingual. It's available to visit school campuses and community centers through June 29, and again in the fall.
What they're saying: "Our goal is to capture the thrill of playing Lotería ... the anticipation, the strategy and the unexpected turns, while telling a heartfelt story," co-director Anthony Runfola said in a statement.
- "Each play reminds us that family is not just about where we come from, but the stories and traditions that keep us connected."
Context: Magik Theatre has put on bilingual productions before, spokesperson Valerie Grant tells Axios.
- "Aladdin" in 2018, "Mariachi Girl" in 2019 and "The Magical Piñata" and "Senora Tortuga" in 2020 were all bilingual productions.
What's next: The weekly Story Time series at Hemisfair's Yanaguana Garden, at 10am Tuesday, will feature a reading of "Playing Lotería" by René Colato Laínez.
- On Saturday, at 1:30pm ahead of the opening 3pm show, Magik Theatre will celebrate at Hemisfair with a special edition of Lotería and a coloring craft inspired by the park district. There will also be snacks, juice and a DJ.
- There will be a sensory-friendly performance of "¡Lotería: Game On!" on May 17 for kids with autism or other neurodivergent disabilities.
If you go: Ticket prices and showtimes vary; find more information online.
The bottom line: "Whether you're fluent in both languages or just beginning to learn, the story remains clear, compelling and fun," co-director Laura T. Garza said in a statement.