The next Penguin Project production is Honk JR, Aug. 14–17, 2025.
Penguin+ Returns in the 2024-25 Season!
About The Penguin Project®
Established in 2004, The Penguin Project has evolved into a national program that partners with local community theatres. It creates opportunities for young artists with special needs to participate onstage in theatre and share their creative talents.
Young artists, ages 14-21, perform a modified version of a well-known Broadway musical. All roles are filled by young artists with developmental disabilities including Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, autism, intellectual disabilities, learning disabilities, visual impairment, hearing impairment, and other neurological disorders. Together, young artists and a dedicated group of peer mentors take the stage through rehearsals and the final performance.
What you can expect
This unique program provides an atmosphere that is supportive, safe, and inspirational; one where each person’s differences are understood and artists are encouraged to develop better communication skills, self-confidence, and self-esteem. Artists and mentors work side-by-side through four months of rehearsals and a weekend of shows.
At the end, artists, mentors, and parents leave The Playhouse with connections that last beyond the final performance.
Does this sound like something your student would like?
Contact Nate Weber, education outreach, using the form below, or at 515.974.5360 or nweber@dmplayhouse.com
“When [Penguin Project national organization founder] Dr. Morgan told us it would be a happy and safe place for our child to experience theatre, he was absolutely correct. The kindness, acceptance, and encouragement that we experienced at The Des Moines Playhouse made it such a positive and rewarding experience. I think the tearful goodbyes and the trading of numbers and social media accounts say it all. The actors and mentors continue to stay in touch, weeks after the show is over! Thank you for your commitment to this program!” – Tricia, Parent of an artist in Annie Jr at The Playhouse
“Never before has something positively impacted my son and me more. We have gained friendships, confidence, and appreciation of theatre and community. We have never felt so valued and included. Each person’s differences were understood and their strengths were showcased and encouraged. Every person became a better version of themselves and will be forever changed for the better because of this project.” – Gretchen, Parent of an artist in Annie Jr at The Playhouse