To boost her confidence, she performs an energetic hip-hop dance and rap about self-love. At the audition venue, Yeila leads a warm-up session to energize everyone. However, when it’s her turn to audition, she freezes up. The judges still offer her a spot in the festival, but she must first explore her cultural roots.

Yeila rushes home to share her day, only to find her mother distressed over Yeila’s grandmother, Abuela, who has Alzheimer’s and is losing her memories. Yeila learns from her mother about the importance of roots—raíz in Spanish—as a connection to heritage and self-discovery. Inspired, Yeila decides to research her Cuban culture with her mother’s help.

They plan a trip to Cuba, inviting the audience to join them on an interactive flight. Upon arriving in Havana, Yeila is enchanted by the sights and sounds. She creates a beat from her surroundings and starts speaking in Spanish. Her mother encourages the audience to engage in a bilingual call-and-response.

In Abuela’s courtyard, Yeila hears the mysterious sound again, realizing it represents her roots. She calls out for Abuela, who initially responds with confusion. After some coaxing and the mention of salsa dancing, Abuela begins to remember. Yeila’s mother leads the audience in a song that highlights the letters of Cuba—C for Culture, U for Unique, B for Beautiful, and A for Amazing—helping Abuela regain her memories.

As Abuela reconnects with her heritage, she inspires Yeila for her festival performance. Abuela gives Yeila a flower for inspiration,  and Yeila returns to DC for the festival. Backstage, she finds comfort in the presence of her mother, Abuela, and her new friends.

On stage, Yeila performs a vibrant dance that celebrates her roots and newfound confidence. The play closes on a triumphant note that emphasizes the power of cultural pride, identity, and self-acceptance.