2023 Penguin Project’s Annie, Jr.

Once a year, a magical and touching celebration of the human spirit unfolds at numerous theaters across the country. A group of children in a program called The Penguin Project take to the stage to perform a modified version of a well-known Broadway musical.

These productions are unique as all roles are filled by young artists with special needs. They are joined on stage by a dedicated group of peer mentors– children their same age – who have volunteered to work side-by-side with them through 4 months of rehearsals and the final performances. By providing access to community theater, The Penguin Project demonstrates that the challenges of special needs should not hinder a child’s ability to participate in life’s experiences.