Casa Mañana Theatre — Attraction in Fort Worth

Ordinarily I love Casa. We grew up together and I have many good memories of shows I attended and a few I played in. That’s why writing this review is painful. If you are disabled, or planning to visit Casa Manana with a disabled person, please don’t. Stay home. Parking is inadequate and Casa knows this. The ticket office told my mother to arrive an hour early to get a handicapped space. We did and spaces were already taken. We parked in front, and there is no ramp access other than what is accessible from the handicapped spaces where we couldn’t park. Mom had to manage the stairs with her walker. But wait for it, it gets worse. When we entered the theater, we were told she could not take her walker with her. The usher took it away and sent her up a flight of stairs. What the what? I am sure a past incident has required Casa to enforce this policy; maybe a gray haired patron became unruly with a walker, and for safety and security measures this policy was needed. But common sense needs to prevail. Nothing good ever comes from taking walkers away from little old ladies. My mother at 84 cannot walk or use the internet, which is why she called the ticket office to purchase tickets, and, after telling Casa about her disability, Casa sold her three seats in an area that required her to manage stairs without the use of her walker. And here’s the really bad part: Take a look at the photo below to see our view of what I’m guessing was a really good performance of Annie yesterday.

Side note to anyone, able bodied or not, DO NOT BUY SEATS IN SECTION 7, ROW M, SEATS 9, 10, 11. And shame on you, Casa, for selling them. My poor mother paid $49 each for three of these.

Final note to Casa: Please don’t reply to this review unless it’s to acknowledge accessibility issues. Anything short of that will be stupid. I’ll even write it for you: “Dear Lee Ann, we regret your recent experience was not what you had hoped. Please know that Casa takes the safety of its patrons very seriously and is doing everything we can to ensure the best experience for all. We hope you will visit us again soon and we look forward to serving you to the best of our ability.” See how lame that sounds?

And to your board of directors or whoever manages legal responsibilities for your organization: Check your indemnity clauses for liability coverages should someone (under the current practices) face plant in the nose...

Some stories transcend time, weaving themselves into the fabric of our lives in ways we never expect. For me, The Color Purple is one such story. From childhood, this film held deep significance in my family—so much so that my cousin and I share the middle name of one of its iconic female characters. In the sixth grade, I chose to read the novel of my own free will, marking the beginning of a profound personal connection to its narrative.

In 2018, I eagerly purchased tickets to see the stage production on the boardwalk, only to have my plans thwarted by a canceled flight. I made a promise to myself that if this remarkable show ever came to the DFW area, I would be there on opening night. On February 28th, I fulfilled that promise—and the experience exceeded every expectation.

Having grown up watching the original film and recently viewing the new cast remake, I thought I knew what to expect. However, nothing compared to witnessing the magic unfold live on stage. From the opening scene to the final curtain call, the production was extraordinary. The cast delivered powerhouse performances, their vocals soaring with emotion, their acting infused with depth and authenticity. The sheer talent on display left me laughing, crying, and smiling all at once.

The direction, choreography, and set design elevated the storytelling, creating a visually stunning and emotionally gripping experience. This was not just a show; it was an event—one that reinforced the power of live theater to move and inspire.

For anyone who loves the stage, The Color Purple is an absolute must-see. It is a testament to the enduring magic of storytelling, brought to life in a way that no screen adaptation could...

Here's the scoop. Parking is meh, but oh....my...gosh..... was Beauty and the Beast Jr worth it - yes...all the yeses. Yall... come on. Stage was cute, felt intimate. Decent prices on snacks and drinks compared to theaters for movies. So tolerating for kids/babies.

Acting, singing, engagement, effect 100% on point. We literally bought our next play as we left. Honestly was a skeptic with the "Jr." Title but no regrets. Asked my husband if they had adult shows for date night options. Please, please give it a try! So glad my family has discovered it, sad we didn't find it sooner.

Cons: Single con and this is not unusual or "their" fault....tall parents in front of kids. We are lucky enough we can purchase front row seats next time... but for those who may be in a pinch, just don't do BB unless the very right few seats (3 I think) for the price -- same price as AA and no guarantee they may need to sit on their knees instead.

Pros: Small, engaging, and incredible performers/singers. Some staff is volunteer and so INCREDIBLY kind and humble. Performers seem genuinely invested in the outcome/reaction. Seats AA and BB are where pit used to be so you are literally "with" the cast. Super fun point of view that makes the show hard to bore, especially as they can run through the aisles.

TL;DR it was a core memory. Loved it. 100% going again no hesisitation....