The University of Iowa’s Hancher will co-present La Maleta with the Englert Theatre at 6:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 27, at the Englert in downtown Iowa City. This poignant story of social justice and inclusivity is told through the vivid imagination of a young girl.

La Maleta (The Suitcase) is the story of Roca, a 10-year old refugee who leaves her native Colombia for North America clutching her suitcase—inside of which she believes her grandmother is hiding. Struggling to adapt to a new city, a new language, a new school, and a new way of life, Roca befriends Paz, a boy who is an immigrant with many of the same struggles as Roca. Opening the suitcase leads them to embark on an adventure during which Roca finds the courage, hope, and strength to adapt to her new home. Incorporating both Spanish and English, La Maleta explores the struggle of finding your place in a new setting.

The show is by Roseneath Theatre, which Hancher has presented several times in the past for students in the Iowa City Community School District (ICCSD). Roseneath Theatre is a leading producer of award-winning theater for children and their families, addressing issues that resonate with today’s youth and encouraging them to reflect on themselves and their place within the community. Since 1983, Roseneath has created original shows with a focus on education, current issues, and artistic integrity, working in schools and theaters alike.

There will be a show for ICCSD students at 10 a.m. on Friday, Feb. 27. This performance, which is for classroom groups, is sold out.

The performances are supported by the Hancher Partners and gifts to the Hancher Circle through the UI Foundation.

Tickets for the evening performance are $10 for college students and adults and $5 for youth from the Hancher Box Office. Any remaining tickets will be available for sale one hour before show time at the Englert Theatre.

Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to attend all UI-sponsored events. If you are a person with a disability who requires a reasonable accommodation in order to participate in this program, contact the Hancher Box Office in advance at 319-335-1158.