The Penguin Project Youth Program of Muskegon Civic Theatre

Muskegon Civic Theatre is the first Penguin Project site in the state of Michigan. On September 6th and 7th, the Artists and Mentors involved with the Penguin Project of Muskegon Civic Theatre will take the stage to perform Frozen, Jr. at the Frauenthal Center located in Muskegon, MI.

Two informational meetings will be held at No More Sidelines (640 Seminole Rd) on Wednesday, June 11th at 6:00 PM and Saturday, June 14th at 11:00 AM. Anyone interested in participating must attend an informational meeting. We will only accept 30 Artists this year. To be considered, the Artist and family must attend one (1) informational meeting, and turn in required paperwork on time. Behavior needs and concerns will be taken into consideration. Packets are due on or before Friday, June 20th!

The production costs to cover such a memorable event are quite costly approximately $350 per participant. Any amount is appreciated to help our Penguins soar.

What is The Penguin Project?

The Penguin Project was conceived by Dr. Andrew Morgan to give children with special needs an opportunity to participate in the performing arts. “Dr. Andy” is a developmental pediatrician and the former Head of the Division of Child Development at the University of Illinois in Peoria. He has also directed and performed in many community theatre productions. He created The Penguin Project recognizing that theatre not only provides children with a valuable recreational experience and an opportunity to display their creative talents, but also enhances social interaction, communication skills, assertiveness, and self-esteem. The Penguin Project strives to demonstrate that individuals with special needs are fully capable of participating in community activities with the same dedication and enthusiasm as others, if given opportunity and support. The origin of the name “Penguin Project” comes from the unique characteristics of penguins. They are extremely playful and curious, and work well together. More importantly, they have a “disability” that distinguishes them from other birds – they can’t fly!! Instead penguins waddle and toboggan on their bellies over the snow, and are excellent swimmers in the water. So like our young artists, they have adapted to the challenges of their environment, and have not allowed their unique difference to interfere with their lives.

The Penguin Project is open to any individual age 12 to 24 with a developmental disability. There are no restrictions based on the level of cognitive ability, restriction of mobility, or lack of communication skills, unless their behavior might endanger himself/herself or others.

The Penguin Project utilizes a “peer mentor” system, linking each young artist 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. They are on stage with their partner in the same or complimentary costume throughout the entire show.

Among the many benefits is the special impact on the parents. For the first time, many of them have experienced the joy of sitting in an audience and watching their children perform and succeed in ways they never thought possible.

Puffin Project

In 2024 MCT initiated the first ever Puffin Project! Our Puffins work alongside our highly skilled crew creating set pieces and props. They work side by side with our costuming team and act as our show's crew. This behind-the-scenes look at theater is perfect for the artist who wants to be involved, but may not be interested in the spotlight. Participants interested in the Puffin Project will still need to attend one informational meeting and turn in all paperwork to be considered.