Created in 2004, the Penguin Project founded by Dr. Andrew Morgan has changed the lives of many young performers. The program allows kids with disabilities to express their creativity through performing along side a peer mentor.
I sat down with the managing director at Muskegon Civic Theater, Jason Bertoia, and talk about the collaboration between No More Sidelines and the Muskegon Civic Theater formed four years ago. Over these past years, the two programs have collaborated to produce some pretty amazing productions such as “Annie Jr.” and “Aladdin Jr.”. The programs will continue their phenomenal work with this years production of “The Wizard Of Oz” (As a theater kid and classic film nerd, I’m freaking out… seriously).
Muskegon Civic Theater is not only excited to put on an amazing show, but is also excited to as this is one of the first performances at the Frauenthal since the start of the Covid-19 Pandemic. Jason says the cast and crew is doing everything they can to keep the production healthy and safe as this program is important to many. While touching the lives of the audience, the Penguin Project has also touched the lives of the performers and mentors. Jason tells me how the mentors not only receive letters of recommendations and National Honors Society hours, but also attain lifelong memories and friendships. The kids, or artists, not only create life long friendships but also finally get to take center stage and not be on the “sidelines”.
To learn more about the big show and to get tickets, follw the link below to find the Civic Theater's website and make sure that you head out and support this amazing community endaavor and reward all involved with this unique and fun way to be a part of the arts.
