The Happiness Gym™ is a National New Play Rolling World Premiere conceived and trademarked by Ken Weitzman.

Now is the time to flex our happiness muscles in a curated theatrical experience: The Happiness Gym, throughout The VORTEX Compound for the first three weeks of April only. The Happiness Gym is open throughout The VORTEX compound, inside and out, offering a joyous, experiential event rooted in positive psychology and the science of mental well-being. We all need a boost to our sense of happiness, joy, and connection!

In the designed space of The Happiness Gym, we will be guided through elegantly simple experiences that are scientifically proven to boost happiness through three key elements: good news, gratitude, and connection. It’s fun, beneficial, community-building, and provides a theatrical workout that just may change the way you live the rest of your life.

Move over, escape rooms—this is the must-do interactive experience of the season! Perfect for friends, family, or coworkers looking for something meaningful and unique.

All fitness levels welcome!  No heavy lifting or experience required. 

The Cast:

Ken Prime: Yesenia Garcia Herrington, Daniela Recabarren Mendoza

Lab Kens: Vineeth Nadella, Daniela Recabarren Mendoza, Miguel Gaytan, Liam Arney, Ilela Abimbola, Sa’Nyah Crockett.

Gym Kens: Ronisha Reneus, Phoebe Hamburger, Nyah Adler, Nic May, Faraz Mobli, Natoz T Walker, Jack Peznola, Illiana Perez, Britney Huguley, Eva E De Guelle, Elise Ray, Cosi Arthurs, Presley Batkins, Drew Dunson, Caleb Partipilo.

Happiness Gym Dancers: Natoz T Walker, Jack Peznola (Aerialist), Illiana Perez, Britney Huguley, Eva E De Guelle, Elise Ray.

Happiness Gym Band; Elise Ray, Cosi Arthurs, Presley Batkins, Drew Dunson, Caleb Partipilo.

Scenic Design by Ann Marie Gordon. Lighting Design by Patrick Anthony. Costume Design by Keelan Moses. Hair and Makeup Design by Olivia Rose McCain. Sound Design by Johann Solo. Choreography by Kate Herlihy. Dramaturgy by Insha Iqbal. 

Grand Gratitude Finale Written and Composed by Caleb Partipilo and Presley Batkins.

Rehearsal Stage Manager: Aidenne Despres. Stage Management by Jamie Carroll and Tamara L. Farley. Assistant Director: Jaimee Harmon-Taboni. Dramaturgy: Insha Iqbal.

Choreography: Kate Herlihy.

Managing Director, Melissa McKnight. Producing Artistic Director, Bonnie Cullum. 

The production of The Happiness Gym at The VORTEX is presented in cooperation with Texas State University and is directed and devised by Kara-Lynn Vaeni, head of undergraduate directing at Texas State. Devised and performed by Texas State University Theatre BFA students.