Some envision the growing program as the “Special Olympics for theater.” Since its debut show in 2004, the Penguin Project now has more than 20 replication sites across 16 states. ![]() Parents say they’ve seen their children transform, gaining self-confidence and forging friendships that outlast the production. Organizers point to the power of theater to help traditionally isolated children and their families build a vibrant social network. It’s just that they have very limited opportunities to show it.” “The need is huge,” said Andy Morgan, a developmental pediatrician and founder of the Penguin Project in Peoria, Ill. The program, called the Penguin Project, pairs cast members with developmental and neurological disorders with peer mentors who guide them through the four-month process of staging modified versions of well-known musicals. Liliana and Nick belong to a cohort of actors from Northern Starz Children’s Theatre in Ramsey, participating for the first time in a national theater program for young people with special needs. Sometimes the magic happens on cue, in sync with the rest of the performers putting on a special version of “Annie Jr.” And when it doesn’t, 13-year-old classmate and mentor Liliana Becker is there to help Nick, who has Down syndrome, get to the right spot on stage and remember that he’s part of a bigger group. His hips swivel, his body bends, his shoulders shimmy. When the music flips on, something electric strikes 14-year-old Nick Motlomelo’s long limbs.
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