An All-Abilities Musical Theatre Program, Ages 10–25

The Penguin Project at The Premiere Playhouse is a one-of-a-kind musical theatre
experience that celebrates the power of inclusion, creativity, and community. Designed
for artists ages 10–25 with disabilities, the program pairs each performer with a peer
mentor to create a supportive environment where every participant can shine on stage.
Over the course of several months, artists and mentors rehearse side-by-side—building
confidence, friendships, and performance skills — while working together to bring a
fully staged musical production to life. The process focuses on growth, joy, and
collaboration, ensuring that every artist is empowered to express themselves and be
celebrated for who they are.

More than a theatre program, The Penguin Project is a transformative experience that
strengthens empathy, leadership, and belonging for everyone involved. When the
curtain rises, audiences witness not just a musical, but a community coming together to
prove that the stage truly belongs to everyone.

Sponsored by The Wanda Covington Endowment

The Wanda Covington Endowment benefits children and adults with disabilities with special emphasis on programs that provide enjoyment and recreation and organizations and programs which provide assistance to distressed or abused animals.

2026 Production

• Frozen JR.

Program Schedule

• May 5 – 28, Tuesdays & Thursdays from 6:30pm – 8:00pm
• June 2 – July 30, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, & Thursdays from 6:30pm -8:00pm
• August 4 – 6, Tuesday, Wednesday, & Thursday 6:30pm – 8:00pm
• August 10 – 13, Monday – Thursday 6:00pm – 9:00pm

Performance Dates

• Friday, August 14 @ 7:00pm
• Saturday, August 15 @ 7:00pm
• Sunday, August 16 @ 2:00pm

Registration Schedule

• Registration Opens March 13, 2026
• Late Penguin Project Registration Deadline May 22, 2026 (if space is available)
• Penguin Project Participants’ Program Registration is not confirmed until all forms are received and the artist/mentor has attended a minimum of 4 sessions by the late registration deadline. Overall, a participant must attend 80% of sessions.

The Penguin Project Is Free of Cost

There are no tuition fees to participate in The Penguin Project, however, families will be
asked to participate in fundraising activities that aid in covering their program costs. It
costs The Premiere Playhouse approximately $1,000+ per participant for The Penguin
Project each year, and funds are raised annually through a variety of fundraising
programs, i.e. sponsorships, scholarships, donations, and fundraising events, as well as
production ticket sales.

Program Capacity: 30 artists & 30 mentors, 60 participants total

All participants must Register as well as fill out a Child Registration Form. Penguin Project Participants’ Program Registration is not confirmed until all forms are received and the artist/mentor has attended a minimum of 4 sessions by the late registration deadline. Overall, a participant must attend 80% of all scheduled sessions.

*Artist Registration is currently full. We will announce if more slots open up!

Also, we are always looking for volunteers! If you would like to help out with this amazing project, please fill out the form at the bottom of this page!