The event will feature adults aged 23 and up with special needs performing Motown favorites alongside peer mentors. Tickets go on sale March 16 in person at Woodlawn Arts Academy for $9 each, cash or check only. Tickets will also be available at the door.
Woodlawn is partnering with The Penguin Project of the Sauk Valley (PPSV) to produce the third annual Shining Stars event. Performers get the chance to experience the entire process of putting on a show: auditioning, learning and memorizing music, rehearsing, and taking to the stage. These “shining stars” are joined in rehearsals and on stage by peer mentors who work alongside them every step of the way. The program was offered free of charge, thanks to scholarships via grants and private donors. The performance is directed by Brandi Spreeman, a local music educator.
Dawn Arndt, PPSV director, has worked with the organization since its local inception. “The Penguin Project of the Sauk Valley is incredibly important to our community because it provides a safe, supportive space where our actors can showcase their talents on stage,” she said. “Over the past seven seasons, I’ve had the honor of watching our actors grow, learn, and gain confidence through this program. Our actors aren’t just learning theater skills; they are learning skills that carry into their everyday lives: communication, teamwork, and independence.”
Christy Zepezauer, Woodlawn Arts Academy’s executive director, added that these skill sets tie in with the Academy’s mission. “Designed to highlight individual strengths and foster confidence, this event reflects our deep commitment to accessibility and meaningful artistic engagement,” Zepezauer said.
The Shining Stars event, like all PPSV events, gives actors a chance to discover their talents and believe in themselves. “Getting to see and be a part of that each year makes my heart happy,” Arndt said.
“We believe in our motto: ‘Where the ARTS are for everyone,’ said Zepezauer. “This performance opportunity is about more than stepping onto a stage; it’s about empowerment, joy, and recognizing the incredible talents within our special needs community.”
All proceeds from ticket sales and donations benefit future local Penguin Project performances.
About Woodlawn Arts Academy
Woodlawn Arts Academy is the premier arts-based educational institution of the Sauk Valley area. The Academy offers year-round daytime and evening instruction in visual arts, music, dance, theatre, and culinary arts, plus education programs that encompass its Preschool program, as well as STEM and literary arts programming. In addition to classes and workshops, the Academy offers numerous performances and exhibits throughout the year. Woodlawn Arts Academy is an agency of United Way of Whiteside and Lee counties, and financial assistance is available to those who qualify. Details on the Academy’s programming and financial assistance applications are available in the Academy office or on the website. The Academy acknowledges support from the Illinois Arts Council. For more information on Woodlawn and its offerings, visit woodlawnartsacademy.com.
About The Penguin Project of the Sauk Valley
The Penguin Project is a unique theatre experience that provides individuals with special needs the opportunity to participate in the performing arts. Established in 2004, The Penguin Project has evolved into a national program with chapter sites throughout the United States. The program provides a supportive environment for children with disabilities to explore their creative talents. For details about the local organization, visit penguinprojectsv.com.
