ExxonMobil Discovery Series: Don’t Worry Willy

Introducing 5th Graders to the World of the Performing Arts

Arts Partner: The Ensemble Theatre
Fine Arts, Reading Langauge Arts, Special Education, SEL

A high-stakes test turns a 5th-grade classroom into a whirlwind of anxiety, self-doubt, and support. William “Willy” T. Bear, an imaginative but anxious student, escapes into the Willyverse—a world where his emotions take shape. Struggling with friendships and past bullying, he leans on his twin sister, Jen, while facing pressure from perfectionist classmate Penelope. With a diverse group of classmates—each facing challenges like autism, dyslexia, and grief—Willy must learn to manage his emotions. Guided by their lively teacher, Miss Bovine Longhorn, and the wise Pokey Toes Turtle III, the students discover coping strategies, friendship, and self-acceptance. Through music and storytelling, Don’t Worry Willy explores social-emotional learning, neurodiversity, and self-expression—reminding young audiences that it’s okay to feel, struggle, and be themselves.

Learn More about the Hobby Center’s educational programming and future opportunities for Houston school districts.

This project is supported in part by an award from the Houston Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs and Mid-America Arts Alliance and The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion 2025 BIG grant.

About The Ensemble Theatre

Influenced by the African American Theatre movement of the 1960s & 70s, George Hawkins founded The Ensemble Theatre in 1976 in Houston, TX. Today, The Ensemble Theatre benefits a multicultural audience that is diverse in age, income, ethnicity and culture. The mainstage season consists of six productions, ranging from classic to contemporary works. The Celebrating the Creative Journey series offers an expanded repertoire of artistic programing and projects. Serving more than 30,000 youth throughout Houston, The Ensemble Theatre’s Touring Education Department provides educational workshops, artist-in-residence experiences and live performances for students both off-site and at the theatre.