The Magik Celebrates 30 Years with ‘The BFG’
Get carried away by The BFG, Magik Theatre’s new adaptation of the beloved novel by Roald Dahl. The hilarious play about a 24-foot-tall Big Friendly Giant and his young friend Sophie, both closes out Magik’s 2023-24 season and ignites the theater’s 30th birthday year, complete with a truly gigantic opening night celebration.
When young orphan Sophie accidentally encounters a giant, she is understandably frightened for her life. Thankfully the giant in question happens to be the BFG — the Big Friendly Giant — who doesn’t eat humans and instead spends his time catching dreams in Dream Country in order to give the good ones to children and destroy the nightmares. But the BFG has a problem. His five giant neighbors, who bully him when not stealing humans to eat, decide to head to England for a dinner of British children. With Sophie’s help, the BFG goes on an incredible journey to Buckingham Palace and convinces the Queen to save England from these absolutely unfriendly giants. Adapted by David Wood, Magik Theatre’s production of The BFG is made possible in part by a generous grant from the Russell Hill Rogers Fund for the Arts while the GIANT 30th birthday party is made possible by H-E-B, Magik’s Premier event sponsor.
The endearing tale of The BFG became an instant classic upon its release in 1982, eventually selling more than 30 million copies worldwide. Children and adults love the gentle giant and brave Sophie, both outcasts in their respective homes, who find empathy and acceptance in each other. These themes are a natural fit for Magik’s mission, but bringing a tale of this proportion to the stage was a giant effort.
“Adapting The BFG for the stage required a blend of creativity and innovation. We approached the task by considering the importance of scale — how to make the fantastical world of giants and humans come alive in a theatrical setting,” said director Anthony Runfola, also Magik’s artistic director. “Scenery, props, and costumes all intersect in a way that is much more intricate than in most productions.” Scenic designer Martin Gjoni, costume designer Yesi Tafur, and lighting designer Matt Webb incorporate a blend of low and high tech, with influences of Persian shadow puppets, 80s fashion, and overhead projector art, to create this whimsical world.
The Big Friendly Giant is brought to life by Mason Anthony Ortiz, who is joined by his little friend, Clarissa Cortez as Sophie. The rest of the cast includes Trisch Moy, Queen of Sweden, Amy Bouquet, Queen of England, Michael Robets as Mr. Tibbs, Stephanie Higley as Head of the Air Force, Katrin Blucker Ludwig as Head of the Army and Lauren Campion as Swing. Sound design is by John Michael Hoke.
The May 4 soiree promises to be a gigantic spectacular, celebrating not only The BFG but Magik’s 30th birthday. Honoring community giants like Bexar County Judge Peter Sakai, Councilwoman Melissa Cabello Havdra, HEB, and Hemisfair, the early evening party in the park features sweet treats, games galore, and circus-style entertainment, as well as the unveiling of Magik’s 30th anniversary season. In the lobby, partygoers can stroll down memory lane with an exhibit of Magik’s most historic moments, and little ones can craft their own dream jars. After the 6:00 p.m. performance, audience members can grab a cupcake or glass of champagne and toast to 30 years of Magik!
SPECIAL EVENTS AND PERFORMANCES
GIANT 30th Birthday Party Celebration & BFG Opening Night Party in the Park | Sat., May 4, 4:30 p.m.
San Antonio’s own Ryley Hall will provide musical entertainment while guests enjoy a giant birthday cake, Easy Squeezy’s custom “Frobscottle” lemonade, a special craft project, circus-style entertainers, games, and a chance to see how they measure up to a life-size cutout of the San Antonio Spurs’ famously tall Victor Wembanyama. Additionally, Bexar County Judge Peter Sakai will present Magik with a special commemoration of the Theatre’s 30 years inspiring the community. Artistic Director Anthony Runfola will also unveil the 2024-2025, 30-year anniversary season. After the 6 p.m. performance, patrons can help toast Magik’s three decades with champagne or sparkling grape juice.
Educator Appreciation Performance | Sun., May 12, 3 p.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 50% off the regular ticket prices with promo code THANKYOU50.
Sensory-Friendly Performance | Sat., May 18, 10 a.m..
Audience members on the autism spectrum and those with sensory issues can take in a special performance of The BFG designed just for them. Kids and adults are free to be themselves in this relaxed, judgment-free theatre experience.
Pay What You Wish Performance | Sun., May 26, 3 p.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 Sunday, May 26.
American Sign Language Interpreted Performance | Sat., May 25, 2 p.m.
Patrons who communicate with ASL can attend this performance featuring Robert Cardoza, the San Antonio theatre community’s primary American Sign Language interpreter.
TICKET OPTIONS
BFG SINGLE TICKETS
- $25 for adults ● $20 for children (ages 3-17), Military, Seniors, Educators & Students
NEW 2024-2025 SEASON SUBSCRIPTIONS OPEN MAY 4, 2024!
- 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)
Tickets can be purchased on the Magik’s website. The box office can be reached at (210) 227-2751. The theater is located at 420 S. Alamo Street.
Photos courtesy of the Magik Theatre.
