Empowering Children With Special Needs Through Theatre
About Us
The Project
The Penguin Project is a unique theatre experience that provides individuals with special needs the opportunity to participate in the performing arts. Cast members will have the opportunity to experience the process of putting on a show: auditioning, rehearsing, and finally taking to the stage to perform a modified version of a well-known Broadway musical. Cast members will be joined on stage by peer mentors who will work alongside them during the entire show process.
Participants
The Penguin Project is open to any individual age 10-23 with special needs. This includes, but is not limited to, Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, Autism, cognitive disabilities, learning disabilities, hearing and visual impairments, genetic disorders and neurological disorders.
Peer Mentors
The Penguin Project utilizes a peer mentor system, linking each cast member with an age-level peer who has theatre experience. The peer mentors work alongside their partners, assisting them through the entire production process. Peer mentors should be ages 13-23.
More Information
To learn more about The Penguin Project, visit our national site.
Contact Us
info@penguinprojectsv.com
Find Us On:
2026 Production
The Penguin Project of the Sauk Valley, in partnership with Woodlawn Arts Academy & area Kiwanis clubs, proudly presents Shrek Jr.!
November of 2026
Centennial Auditorium
1608 4th ave.
Sterling, IL 61081
Registration
Registration is now closed. Watch for details on our next show, which will be posted in early 2027.
Rehearsals
Tuesdays & Thursdays,
5-6:30pm
Northside Baptist Church Gym
598 River Lane, Dixon
Tech Week
Monday-Thursday, 5-6:30pm
Centennial High School
1608 4th Ave. Sterling, IL 61081
Partners
