Cast members point upward, asking permission to perform the play by saluting each of the four directions before the performance begins. Photo courtesy of the Wimberley Players
'Yana Wana’s Legend of the Bluebonnet'
As families in San Marcos make merry this season, the Wimberley Players are planning a special free treat that sets the tinsel and mistletoe aside but delivers a full hour of heart-warming entertainment.
On Saturday, Dec. 14 at 2 p.m., a free performance of “Yana Wana’s Legend of the Bluebonnet” will take place at the Wimberley Playhouse.
“Yana Wana’s Legend of the Bluebonnet” is a family-friendly, bilingual performance that fits perfectly into the season’s calendar. There’s a dancing deer, yes, but he is far from the North Pole. “Yana Wana’s Legend of the Bluebonnet” is all about the beauty and value of family, heritage and caring for others. The one-hour show is free and everyone is welcome. Although the show is bilingual, the dialogue and songs are easy for all to understand.
“Yana Wana’s Legend of the Bluebonnet” is an original play by Maria R. Rocha and Roxanne Schroeder-Arce.
The story is told through the eyes of thoroughly modern Maria, a 13-year-old who’s more interested in texting her friends than doing her homework. But she’s having trouble in school so her mother sends her to spend time with her Coahuiltecan grandmother in Laredo to gain a little perspective. There, Maria learns the ancient story of young Yana Wana, who followed a revered deer to find water and save her people. Yana Wana’s journey also reveals for the first time an amazing connection between the bluebonnet and indigenous people. Maria gains a renewed sense of pride in her heritage and the importance of each person’s story.
Fast-paced, upbeat scenes are set to original Coahuiltecan music composed by Héctor Martínez-Morales.
“Yana Wana’s Legend of the Bluebonnet” is third in the series of cultural sharing events presented by the Wimberley Players. It is produced by Indigenous Cultures Institute in partnership with Teatro Vivo. The show was enthusiastically received in Austin and will tour South Texas after the Wimberley show on Dec. 14.
“Yana Wana’s Legend of the Bluebonnet” cast members are Madison Palomo, Gaz Garcia, Erica Saenz, Barbara Mojica, David Allan Barrera, Malyssa Quiles and Jose Dominguez-Leal. The show is directed by Rudy Ramirez.
The Wimberley Playhouse is located at 450 Old Kyle Road. Tickets must be reserved, though there is no charge, at the Wimberley Players' website or by calling the box office at 512-847-0575.
