The Magic of Inclusion: How Theatre Lawrence’s Penguin Project Redefines Youth Theater
There’s something profoundly moving about watching young people with disabilities take center stage—not as tokens of inspiration, but as full-fledged performers. Theatre Lawrence’s Penguin Project production of Alice in Wonderland Jr. is more than a play; it’s a testament to the transformative power of inclusion. Personally, I think this is where theater meets humanity at its best. What makes this particularly fascinating is how it flips the script on traditional youth theater. Instead of focusing solely on talent or experience, the Penguin Project prioritizes opportunity and community.
Beyond the Stage: The Power of Belonging
One thing that immediately stands out is the sense of belonging these young actors feel. Take Asher, for instance, who plays Alice. She’s not just excited about her role; she’s dropped another play to be part of this production. Why? Because here, she’s not just an actor—she’s part of an ensemble where everyone truly matters. In my opinion, this is where the Penguin Project shines brightest. It’s not about individual stardom but collective joy. What many people don’t realize is that for kids with disabilities, finding a space where they’re not just accepted but celebrated is rare. This program doesn’t just give them a role; it gives them a community.
Mentorship: The Unsung Hero of the Show
The role of peer mentors in this production is another detail I find especially interesting. These mentors aren’t just assistants; they’re partners in creativity. Jensen, a mentor dressed as a bumblebee, notes how much the actors practice at home. What this really suggests is that the hard work isn’t just happening on stage—it’s a shared effort. From my perspective, this mentorship model is a masterclass in empathy. It’s not about doing things for someone but empowering them to do it themselves. If you take a step back and think about it, this approach could revolutionize how we support young people with disabilities in all areas of life.
The Unexpected Connections
A detail that I find especially interesting is how the Penguin Project fosters unexpected bonds. Connor, who plays the March Hare, and Ryne, the Mad Hatter, discovered they’re neighbors. This raises a deeper question: How often do we miss out on meaningful connections because we’re not in the right spaces? Theatre Lawrence’s program isn’t just about putting on a show; it’s about building relationships that extend far beyond the stage. Tanya Lee, Connor’s mom, calls it “built-in friends,” and I think that’s a beautiful way to describe it. These aren’t just friendships of convenience; they’re friendships born out of shared passion and understanding.
The Ritual of ‘Don’t Stop Believin’
At the end of every rehearsal and performance, the cast sings Journey’s Don’t Stop Believin’. This isn’t just a fun tradition—it’s a statement. What this really suggests is that the Penguin Project is as much about confidence as it is about theater. Tanya Lee calls it “pure joy,” and I couldn’t agree more. This ritual isn’t just a song; it’s a reminder that belief in oneself is the greatest performance of all. What many people don’t realize is that for these young actors, this song isn’t just a closing number—it’s a mantra.
Why This Matters Beyond Lawrence
If you take a step back and think about it, the Penguin Project is a microcosm of what inclusive communities should look like. It’s not just about accommodating differences; it’s about celebrating them. From my perspective, this model could—and should—be replicated nationwide. The fact that families don’t have to pay to participate removes a significant barrier, making it accessible to all. This raises a deeper question: Why aren’t more organizations doing this? In my opinion, the Penguin Project isn’t just a theater program; it’s a blueprint for inclusivity.
Final Thoughts: The Ripple Effect of Joy
As I reflect on Theatre Lawrence’s production, I’m struck by its ripple effect. This isn’t just a play; it’s a movement. Personally, I think the most powerful takeaway is how it challenges us to rethink what’s possible when we prioritize inclusion over exclusion. What makes this particularly fascinating is how it proves that joy is contagious—and when we create spaces where everyone can shine, we all benefit. If you’re still on the fence about the impact of programs like this, I’d say this: Come see a performance. There’s no way you can walk away unchanged.
P.S. If you’re in Lawrence, don’t miss Alice in Wonderland Jr. this week. But more importantly, don’t miss the chance to support initiatives like the Penguin Project. Because, as Tanya Lee said, every parent—and every person—wants that pure joy for their child. And in a world that often feels divided, that’s a message we could all use.
