The Penguin Project – Community Theatre Program for Youth with Disabilities

The Penguin Project, hosted by Altoona Community Theatre in Altoona, Pennsylvania, is open to any individual aged 8 to 21 who has a developmental disability such as Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, autism, intellectual or learning disabilities, or visual/hearing impairments. The program pairs each young artist with a peer mentor—an age‑matched participant without disabilities—to work together through rehearsals and a final performance. Its goals are to provide creative theatre training, foster social interaction, build confidence, and create a supportive community for families. Participants gain hands‑on experience in acting, singing, and stagecraft while collaborating with theatre professionals and volunteers. Registration information is available via the theatre’s dedicated landing page.

Theatre rehearsals, performance opportunity, peer‑mentor system, creative skill development, community support.

Age 8‑21; must have a developmental disability (e.g., Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, autism, intellectual or learning disabilities, visual/hearing impairments).