COMMUNITY PROGRAM
The Penguin Project with BSCT
Empowering children with disabilities through the joy of theatre.
What Is the Penguin Project?
The Penguin Project is a musical theatre production that casts youth aged 8-21 with disabilities in all roles. Each Youth Artist is partnered with on-stage Peer Mentors of similar age and interests.
The Penguin Project was created by Dr. Andrew Morgan, Professor Emeritus of Clinical Pediatrics and the former Head of the Division of Child Development at the University of Illinois College of Medicine at Peoria.
BSCT is one of over 50 nationwide chapters engaging in this project, and is run with the expertise of local artists, special education professionals, and the support of the Penguin Project Foundation.
Who Can Participate?
Artists: The Penguin Project is open to any individual age 8-21 with a disability. This includes kids with cognitive, learning, motor, hearing, and visual impairments, genetic disorders, and neurological disorders.
Mentors: The Penguin Project utilizes a “peer mentor” system, linking each young artists with an age-level peer who does not have a disability. The peer mentors work side by side with their partners, assisting them throughout the entire rehearsal process and on stage.
When and Where Will it Take Place?
Rehearsals begin in November each year, and range from 2 to 4 rehearsals per week.
Rehearsals are held at First Christian Church of Blue Springs. The 2026 production, Frozen, Jr. will open March 19, 2026 and run through March 22, 2026 at Blue Springs South High School Performing Arts Center.
How Much Does It Cost?
The Penguin Project is a NO-COST opportunity for families to experience the joy of theatre!
Tickets to performances are $15 for ages 4 and older.
How Can I Learn More?
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