RapUnzel was one of my most heart warming theatre experiences to date. The ensemble children's musical piece featured original music from rapper: Saul Paul. The story showcased a delightful adaptation of the fairytale Rapunzel, from the perspective of a little black boy named Rap, whose hightop hair stretched as far as the eye could see. When his mother Maji Unzel (played by yours truly) and he move to a new town after his father’s death, he uses the music and imagination as coping mechanisms. In the face of neighborhood bullies, his optimism and charm remain in tact. He teaches everyone he meets the value of marching to one’s own beat, making friends along the way. The show brought to light elements of prejudice, loss and friendship through the eyes of this charming, resilient child.
Being involved with this show warmed my heart over and over again. Not only was it critically acclaimed by various local publications, but the word of mouth of this story carried all across Austin. Each weekend I joined the cast, we were met with a full house for the duration of its run. The most rewarding part of the whole experience was the families that came to watch in droves, passing the word that this was not a production to be missed. At the end of every show, children and parents alike rushed the stage in tears and smiles. There was something so unifying and magnetic about the message that related to people from all walks of life. I feel truly blessed to have been a part of such a beautiful production, which cemented a special place in my heart for children’s theatre.