The Players Theatre Company, the Houston area’s inaugural replica chapter of The Penguin Project, presents the program’s first production, “Annie Jr.,” May 22, 23 and 24 at The Owen Theatre in Conroe, and tickets are currently available.
The Penguin Project gives young artists with special needs, working with peer mentors, the opportunity to perform in a fully staged musical.
The Penguin Project, a nationally recognized program, provides children with disabilities ages eight- to 21-years old a supportive environment to explore their creative talents as part of a modified version of a popular Broadway musical.
Each Penguin Artist is paired with a peer mentor of the same age who provides one-on-one support through rehearsals and performances. The Players have chosen for their first Penguin Project production Annie Jr, a popular, heartwarming show that celebrates inclusion, resilience, and joy.
“This program is very close to my heart for many reasons,” said Cindy Siple, Managing Director for The Players Theatre Company. “It truly reflects who we are as a community theatre — a place where everyone, regardless of ability, is welcome to experience the magic of creating and performing. The special challenges of a disability don’t limit a child’s ability to dream, imagine, or shine. Through The Penguin Project, we not only give these young artists the spotlight, but we also create an inclusive environment where friendships grow, confidence builds, and both artists and mentors experience the joy of belonging and working together as one theatre family.”
Siple, a retired Montgomery ISD music teacher with an extensive background in professional theatre, launched the project last January to enthusiastic response. The show will feature 18 Artists with a wide range of disabilities, 17 mentors and a scruffy dog named Jack playing “Annie’s” iconic sidekick, “Sandy.”
The Penguin Project started in 2004 in Peoria, Illinois by Dr. Andrew Morgan and has grown to 55 chapters in 22 states. Through this program, special needs children have been shown to increase communication skills, improve socialization and self-esteem as well as building lasting friendships and confidence that last long after the final curtain.
“This project is all about inclusion, joy and empowerment through the arts,” said Siple. “It’s a chance to celebrate every individual’s abilities and create something truly magical together.”
Tickets are currently on sale for all three performances through the theatre’s website www.PlayersTheatreCompany.com. The Players Theatre Company is extremely grateful to Montgomery County Community Foundation, Branding Marketing and HEB for their generous support of this program. Additional sponsorship and volunteer opportunities are still available.
Families and individuals interested in participating in future Penguin Project productions with The Players can contact Cindy Siple at md@playerstheatrecompany.com for more information and registration details.
The Players Theatre Company began in 1967 as The Little Theatre of Conroe utilizing the Conroe High School stage and later a refurbished plumbing supply store at the corner of Galveston and Robertson Streets. After helping to restore the historic Crighton Theatre in 1979, the group produced shows there for nearly 30 years as The Crighton Players. In 2008, in a partnership with the City of Conroe, The Players Theatre Company was formed and moved to their current residence at The Owen Theatre.