The Prince & The Pana (21st Community Theater Musical)

Get ready for an enchanting weekend as the Puerto Rican Cultural Center proudly presents the debut of its 21st Annual Original Musical, “The Prince & The Pana.” This captivating musical is set to unfold at the esteemed Huston-Tillotson University’s King-Seabrook Chapel on December 9th at 6:30 PM and December 10th at 3:00 PM, 2023. Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Puerto Rican history, magic, and culture as the stage comes alive with an extraordinary blend of English, Spanish, and Taíno storytelling. Don’t miss this theatrical journey that challenges historical norms and celebrates the resilience of a people. Secure your seats for an unforgettable weekend—purchase your tickets now at https://tickets.prfdance.org/.

The Prince & The Pana is a historical and magical musical that weaves together English, Spanish, and Taíno (the language of Puerto Rican Indigenous people). Set against the backdrop of the mid-19th century, prior to the Abolition of Slavery in Puerto Rico, the story follows an African Prince on his quest to save his people. This compelling production explores the history of the Majesty, the last known illegal slave ship to arrive in Puerto Rico in 1859, while challenging historical stereotypes and highlighting strong, visionary women (Taíno descendants) who were ahead of their time. This annual musical event combines community theater, original live music, dance, and cocobalé (Afro-Puerto Rican sticks and machete fighting) to breathe life into history and pay homage to unsung heroes. The musical promises to showcase live original Bomba, Plena, Jíbaro, and Taíno music.

The Puerto Rican Cultural Center (PRCC) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) whose mission since 1997 is to promote cultural awareness and pride through performing arts programs and cultural events based on Puerto Rican folklore, history, and living traditions — dance, music, community theater, ancestral fighting arts, and Indigenous Taíno heritage.  It’s the only center in Texas and the Southwest affiliated with Puerto Rico’s Instituto de Cultura Puertorriqueña (Institute of Puerto Rican Culture) for ongoing programming that cannot otherwise be experienced in this region.

Sembrando Herencia 2023 is sponsored in part by Huston-Tillotson University, the Texas Commission on the Arts – East Austin Cultural District, and the Bullock Texas State History Museum! Our 2023/24 Season is additionally sponsored in part by Six Square, the National Association of Latino Arts and Culture, TCA with the National Endowment for the Arts, and the City of Austin Economic Development Division.