The Ensemble Theatre’s Touring Education Department will present Don’t Worry Willy: The Musical this May, a vibrant stage adaptation of the children’s book by the same name. With performances scheduled for Saturday, May 10, 2025, and Saturday, May 17, 2025, at 11 a.m. in the Performance Centre, the musical explores timely themes of anxiety, neurodiversity, and resilience in today’s classrooms.

Written by educator and author Elizabeth “Liz” Unaeze, Don’t Worry Willy: The Musical introduces audiences to William T. Bear, an introverted young bear who copes with his anxiety by escaping into the “Willyverse”—a world of imagination and journal entries. Alongside his classmates, Willy confronts emotional challenges such as grief, self-harm, and learning differences, all while preparing for a big end-of-semester test. Each character in the play represents a different learning style and personal response to adversity, creating a rich, relatable narrative for children and families.

Liz Unaeze brings over 14 years of experience in education, training, and coaching to her creative work. She holds degrees in sociology and leadership, and is the founder of Simple Little Publishings LLC and Magnolia Dreams Coaching. As a military spouse, mother of four, and multi-talented artist, she integrates storytelling, music, and social awareness into her projects to promote emotional wellness and education through the arts.

Directed by The Ensemble Theatre’s Youth Education and Community Outreach Director Steven J. Scott, the musical features a cast of talented young Houston actors, including Josh Austin, Nicholas Madison, Karyana Mosely, Trevion Oles, Christian Simon, and De’Shae Thornton.