Latest news with #PenguinProject
Yahoo
29-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Community rallies around LCT's Penguin Project
LA CROSSE, Wis. (WLAX/WEUX) – When the National Endowment for the Arts unexpectedly withdrew grant funding for La Crosse Community Theatre's 2025 Penguin Project production of The Big Bad Musical, the news was a blow. The loss of this federal support, due to shifting national funding priorities, left a critical gap in resources for one of LCT's most inclusive and beloved programs. But the community didn't hesitate. In just a matter of weeks, individual donors, local businesses, and longtime supporters stepped forward with generosity and heart. Not only was the funding gap filled, but community contributions surpassed the original NEA grant amount, ensuring the Penguin Project continues to thrive this season. Erik Vose, Executive Director of La Crosse Community Theatre, said, 'The Penguin Project is more than a performance. It's a celebration of possibility. This community showed what it truly values. We may have lost a grant, but we gained a powerful reminder of how much people care. While we'll continue to welcome support, the very best way to uplift our Penguins right now is to come see the show. Buy a ticket. Be part of their audience. You won't regret it.' The Penguin Project is a nationwide program that provides theatre opportunities for young artists with developmental disabilities and special needs, pairing them with peer mentors for a fully staged musical production. The Big Bad Musical will be performed June 13th through the 15th in the Lyche Theatre at the Weber Center for the Arts. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
CBS News
06-05-2025
- Entertainment
- CBS News
Anne Arundel County theater program gives artists with disabilities confidence, social skills
A unique program, called the Penguin Project, in Anne Arundel County, gives young artists with developmental disabilities the chance to shine on stage, while improving social skills, communication, and boosting self-esteem. Victor Parker says he's shy and gets nervous easily. But when he is on stage, his anxiety melts away. "When I'm acting, it just calms me down and it's so much fun," Parker said. Parker plays Troy, alongside Caroline Crowder as Gabriella, in the Penguin Project's High School Musical Jr. "We had a lot of fun performing last year, and I'm really proud to be the lead this year," Crowder said. What is the Penguin Project? The Penguin Project is a national program that provides a supportive and encouraging theater experience for children and young adults with disabilities. The Talent Machine Company joined forces with the Penguin Project in 2024, becoming the first chapter in Central Maryland. "It gives all these kids a chance to shine," Parker said. Each performer is paired with a peer mentor, who is a child their age who volunteered to work with them through the four months of rehearsals and on stage. "If I forget my lines, she will whisper it in my ear, and then I'll remember it," said Jonah Schulthieis. "I'll kind of pass by behind him and say it," added Chiara Monterroso. Curtain call At their final show on Saturday, parents filled the theater at the MACC church in Davidsonville, beaming with pride. It's a rewarding learning experience for everyone involved. "I've definitely learned how to work with people with disabilities a little better and I've learned how to make more friends," said Anna Wilkins. Parker learned he can reach any heights through the Penguin Project. "I personally like to stay to myself a lot but I've actually learned that i actually like hanging out with people who have shared interest," Parker said.
