Become a Chapter - Penguin Project

The Penguin Project is really social change masquerading as theatre. We see children changing inside.

Want to bring the Penguin magic to your community? Starting a chapter means joining a national network of changemakers using theater to spark joy, confidence, and inclusion.

Behind the Curtain

The Penguin Project began with the compassion and imagination of Dr. Andrew Morgan—a pediatrician and lifelong theater lover who believed every child deserved a moment in the spotlight. He saw how the magic of the performing arts could lift children with disabilities, helping them build confidence, make friends, and find their voice. What started as a small, single local production soon revealed something beautiful: children who once hesitated to speak or sing were now stepping into lead roles with pride and joy.

With the gentle guidance of peer mentors, these young artists discovered strengths they—and sometimes even their families—never knew they had. Parents watched with full hearts as their children blossomed in ways they had only hoped for. Today, that single spark of inspiration has grown into a warm, nationwide community. Across the country, Penguin Project chapters continue to prove one simple truth: when you give a child the chance to shine, they light up the world.

What You’ll Need:

A Home Base

A theater or performance space

Rehearsal Time

4 months of rehearsals (start light, build to 4x/week)

A Program Director

The fearless leader of your Penguin flock

A Production Team

Director, choreographer, mentor coordinator, and more

A Technical Team

Lights, sound, sets, and everything behind the curtain

What We Provide:

Our Name & Tools

Use of the Penguin Project brand and instructional materials

Expert Guidance

Support from Dr. Andy and our national team

Handbook

A start-to-finish guide for running your program

First-Year Site Visit

Hands-on help and encouragement

Production Materials

Music, choreography, sets—you’re not starting from scratch

Ongoing Support

Call us, email us, we’re here for you!

Creative Freedom

You bring your unique flavor—we support your vision

A National Network

You’re not alone—connect with other chapters for inspiration and ideas

Ready to take the next step?

Let’s bring the curtain up on something incredible.

Get In Touch

Common Questions:

The Penguin Project is unique because every role in the production is performed by young artists with developmental disabilities, supported by peer mentors of the same age. This pairing allows children to shine on stage while building friendships, confidence, and life-changing experiences.

Each chapter typically follows a 4-month rehearsal schedule leading up to a full-scale production. During this time, artists and peer mentors meet weekly, practicing lines, songs, and choreography together.

The program welcomes children with a wide range of developmental disabilities, including Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, autism, intellectual and learning disabilities, visual or hearing impairments, and other neurological conditions.

Participation has been shown to enhance social interaction, communication skills, and self-confidence. Many artists and mentors form lasting friendships and gain a strong support network that extends far beyond the theater.

Theaters gain more than a new production — they become leaders in accessibility and community inclusion. Many chapters report tremendous growth in audience engagement, volunteer involvement, and local support after introducing Penguin to their stage.