Schoolhouse Rock Live Jr.

YOUTH THEATRE MUSICAL PRODUCTION

The Emmy Award-winning Saturday morning educational cartoon series and pop culture phenomenon is the basis for one of the most fun and energetic musicals around! Tom, a young schoolteacher, nervous about his first day of teaching, tries to relax by watching TV when colorful characters representing various aspects of his personality pop magically off the screen. Some of our favorite songs include Just Bill, Lolly, Lolly, Lolly and Conjunction Junction.

RATING: Recommended for Family Audiences

THE PENGUIN PROJECT

Established in 2004, Penguin Project gives youth and young adults with special needs the opportunity to participate in the community theatre experience. The Penguin Project is open to any individual ages 9 to 26 with a disability. This includes those with cognitive, learning, motor, hearing and visual impairments as well as genetic and neurological disorders. They are joined on stage by a dedicated group of “peer mentors” – youth the same age without disabilities who have volunteered to work side-by-side with the artists throughout the entire rehearsal and performance process.

The program provides a supportive environment for children with disabilities to explore their creative talents. It has also demonstrated that participation in the performing arts has therapeutic value by enhancing social interaction, communication skills, self-confidence and self-esteem. The impact of the program has reached beyond the stage to create a social network for children who previously had very few friends and limited social opportunities.