Orlando Family Stage
The Finest in Family Theater
Young Yeila dreams of being a superstar but her lack of confidence gives her awful stage fright. With advice from her mother and mentors, Yeila begins her journey to find her roots, gain confidence and be amazing! Travel with Yeila who visits her grandmother in Cuba to add a salsa flavor to her own hip-hop style! The audience gets to dance along in this dynamic participation play where one actress creates three generations of lively women. Journey with Yeila as she discovers the fun of her multi-cultural heritage.
Yeila loves to sing, dance, and dream big, but she struggles with the confidence to share her talents with the world. Hoping to help, her mother sends her to visit her grandmother in Cuba, where she discovers the music, traditions, and stories that have shaped her family for generations.
As Yeila learns new dance styles, explores her cultural heritage, and gains wisdom from the remarkable women in her life, she begins to realize that confidence does not come from being perfect. It comes from embracing who you are.
Filled with audience participation, lively music, and energetic dancing, Havana Hop invites everyone to celebrate culture, family, and the courage to step into the spotlight.
Yeila’s journey reminds us that bravery often begins with believing in ourselves. While stage fright makes her question her abilities, she discovers that courage is built one small step at a time, supported by the people who encourage us to grow.
The story also celebrates empathy by honoring the wisdom passed from one generation to the next. As Yeila connects with her family’s traditions and learns from the strong women around her, audiences are reminded that understanding our own stories helps us appreciate the stories of others. Through music, movement, and shared experiences, Havana Hop celebrates the beauty of culture, community, and belonging.
Many children experience stage fright, self-doubt, or anxiety when trying something new. Yeila’s journey demonstrates that these feelings are normal and that confidence grows through practice, encouragement, and self-acceptance.
By exploring themes of identity, cultural pride, and positive mentorship, Havana Hop encourages young people to celebrate who they are while building the resilience to face new challenges with confidence.
Groups of 15 or more save 15% on select tickets.*
Book online with code Havana15 to snag your seats together and enjoy the savings.
Got questions? We’re happy to help! Contact us about group tickets.
*Discount applies to regular ticket pricing.
This project is funded in part by Orange County Government through the Arts & Cultural Affairs Program.
Young Yeila dreams of becoming a star, but insecurity and stage fright prevent her from sharing her talent. With the support of her mother and the women who inspire her, Yeila embarks on a journey to discover her roots, strengthen her confidence, and celebrate everything that makes her unique.
Join Yeila on her visit to her grandmother in Cuba, where she incorporates the rhythm of salsa into her own hip-hop style. In this dynamic, participatory performance, the audience can dance to the music as a single actress brings to life three generations of vibrant women. Alongside Yeila, discover the joy of celebrating a multicultural heritage.
Yeila loves to sing, dance, and dream big, but she struggles to find the confidence to share her talents with the world. Hoping to help, her mother sends her to visit her grandmother in Cuba. There, Yeila discovers the music, traditions, and stories that have shaped her family for generations.
As she learns new dance styles, explores her cultural heritage, and receives guidance from the extraordinary women in her family, Yeila begins to understand that confidence doesn’t come from being perfect. It comes from accepting and celebrating who you are.
With audience participation, lively music and energetic dancing, Havana Hop invites everyone to celebrate culture, family and the courage to step into the center of the stage.
This show has:
Havana Hop
Written, choreographed and performed by Paige Hernandez
With original music by Nick “Nick tha 1da” Hernandez and Kris Funn
Director: Danielle Drakes
Set Design: Kris Funn
Projections: Paige Hernandez / Ruthmarie Tenorio
Commissioned by Wolf Trap Institute for Early Learning, VA
Developed by Playhouse Square, OH
