Players Theatre Company Announces Program for Actors with Disabilities

THE WOODLANDS, TX – The Players Theatre Company announced it has been designated as the inaugural replica chapter of The Penguin Project in the Houston area and will present the program’s first production next spring. The Penguin Project gives young artists with special needs, working with peer mentors, the opportunity to perform in a fully staged musical.

The Penguin Project, a nationally recognized program, provides children with disabilities ages eight- to 21-years old a supportive environment to explore their creative talents as part of a modified version of a popular Broadway musical. Each Penguin Artist is paired with a peer mentor who provides one-on-one support through rehearsals and performances. The Players first Penguin Project production – Annie Jr, a heartwarming show that celebrates inclusion, resilience, and joy – will be performed next May 22 through 24, 2026 at The Owen Theatre in downtown Conroe.

“This program is very close to my heart for many reasons,” said Cindy Siple, Managing Director for The Players Theatre Company. “It truly reflects who we are as a community theatre – a place where everyone, regardless of ability, is welcome to experience the magic of creating and performing. The special challenges of a disability don’t limit a child’s ability to dream, imagine, or shine. Through The Penguin Project, we not only give these young artists the spotlight, but we also create an inclusive environment where friendships grow, confidence builds, and both artists and mentors experience the joy of belonging and working together as one theatre family.”

Siple, a retired Montgomery ISD music teacher with an extensive background in professional theatre is the program director. Rehearsals for Annie Jr. begin in January 2026 and will be held on Thursday evenings at The Owen Theatre. Registration is now open for Artists and Peer Mentors. Participants should be between the ages of 8- and 21-years old. Adult volunteers are also encouraged to lend a hand with a variety of support roles. There is no cost to participate and an information meeting will be held on January 8, 2026 at 4:30pm at the Owen Theatre for anyone interested.

The Penguin Project started in 2004 in Peoria, Illinois by Dr. Andrew Morgan and has grown to 55 chapters in 22 states. Through this program, special needs children have been shown to increase communication skills, improve socialization and self-esteem as well as building lasting friendships and confidence that last long after the final curtain.

“This project is all about inclusion, joy, and empowerment through the arts,” said Cindy Siple. “It’s a chance to celebrate every individual’s abilities and create something truly magical together.”

The Players Theatre Company is extremely grateful to Montgomery County Community Foundation, Brand Advantage, LLC and HEB for their generous support of this program.

Families and individuals interested in participating or volunteering are encouraged to contact Cindy Siple at manager@playerstheatrecompany.com for more information and registration details. Sponsorship opportunities are also available to corporations, businesses and individuals which help underwrite expenses and allow the program to be offered at no cost to families.

The Players Theatre Company began in 1967 as The Little Theatre of Conroe utilizing the Conroe High School stage and later a refurbished plumbing supply store at the corner of Galveston and Robertson Streets. After helping to restore the historic Crighton Theatre in 1979, the group produced shows there for nearly 30 years as The Crighton Players. In 2008, in a partnership with the City of Conroe, The Players Theatre Company was formed and moved to their current residence at The Owen Theatre.