Des Moines Community Playhouse

This program registration goes live on Monday, February 23, 2026!

The Penguin Project brings young artists ages 14–21 together to perform a modified version of a well-known Broadway musical.

All roles are performed by young artists with developmental disabilities, including (but not limited to) Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, autism, intellectual and learning disabilities, visual or hearing impairments, and other neurological conditions.

Each artist is paired with a dedicated peer mentor. Artists and mentors rehearse and perform side-by-side over four months, culminating in a fully staged production.

The program provides a supportive, safe, and inspiring environment where differences are embraced and artists build communication skills, confidence, friendships, and lasting connections that extend well beyond the final curtain.

To participate as an Artist, individuals must:

• Be 14–21 years old
• Have a disability (cognitive, learning, motor, hearing, visual, genetic, or neurological)
• There are no restrictions based on cognitive ability, mobility, or communication skills
• Be available for the full rehearsal and performance process

Artists are allowed up to seven (7) absences during the rehearsal period

Conflicts will be collected after registration.

Artists may not miss technical rehearsals, dress rehearsals, or performance dates: August 8–16, 2026

If your calendar includes significant conflicts, we encourage you to consider participating in a future session when your schedule allows for full commitment. This helps ensure every artist has the opportunity to fully participate and succeed.