Players Theatre Company Announces Program for Artists with Disabilities and Peer Mentors

CONROE, TX -- Building on the remarkable success of their first Penguin Project production last spring, The Players Theatre Company announces the launching of their next session with an informational meeting for parents, artists, mentors and volunteers on Thursday, October 1, 2026 at The Owen Theatre in Conroe. Penguin Project gives young artists with special needs, working with peer mentors, the opportunity to perform in a fully staged musical.

The Players next Penguin Project production, Seussical Jr, a heartwarming show that celebrates being true to oneself, perseverance, kindness, caring, respect, and imaginative thinking, will be performed on the Owen Theatre stage next spring.

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 of a similar age who provides one-on-one support through rehearsals and performances.

“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.”

Directed Siple, a retired Montgomery ISD music teacher with an extensive background in professional theatre, rehearsals for Seussical Jr. begin in October 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 October 1, 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.”

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.