The Penguin Project’s production of Thoroughly Modern Millie, Jr. will be performed January 13-15 at Eastlight Theatre at East Peoria High School . The show will be held at 7:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday evenings and at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday afternoon. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for youth.
The Penguin Project features a group of young people who take to the stage to perform a modified “junior” version of a well-known Broadway musical. These productions are unique, however, because all of the roles are filled by young artists with developmental disabilities. They are joined on stage by their “peer mentors” – a group of children without disabilities who have volunteered to work with them side-by-side through the rehearsals and on stage. The end result is a celebration of the ability of any child to succeed when given encouragement, support, and opportunity. Past productions have included “Annie, Jr” in 2005, “The Music Man, Jr.” in 2006, “Guys & Dolls, Jr.” in 2007, “High School Musical, Jr.” in 2008, “Beauty and the Beast, Jr.” in 2009, “Fiddler on the Roof, Jr.” in 2010, and “High School Musical 2, Jr.” in 2011.
Taking place in New York City in 1922, Thoroughly Modern Millie, Jr. tells the story of young Millie Dillmount, who has just moved to the city in search of a new life for herself. It’s a New York full of intrigue and jazz – a time when women were entering the workforce and the rules of love and social behavior were changing forever. Based on the popular movie, the stage version includes a full score of new songs and bright dance numbers.
“By providing access to community theater, the Penguin Project demonstrates that the special challenges of a disability do not need to handicap a child’s ability to participate in life’s experiences. The talents of these children have far surpassed all expectations, concluding in a professional, entertaining theater experience,” says Dr. Andy Morgan, Penguin Project director. “Our penguins may not be able to fly, but that does not prevent their spirits from soaring.”
The future goal for the Penguin Project is to take the program to other cities, allowing children with special needs across the nation to participate in a life-altering event. For tickets to the production of Thoroughly Modern Millie, Jr., call 309-699-SHOW (7469) or order online at www.EastlightTheatre.com.