Penguin Project Children Visit Chicago's BILLY ELLIOT, 10/12

Children from The Penguin Project, a group that helps children of various disabilities by engaging them in theatre, will be attending tonight's performance of BILLY ELLIOT the Musical and attending a post-show Q&A at the Ford Center/Oriental Theatre.

The Penguin Project was conceived by Dr. Andrew Morgan to give children with disabilities an opportunity to participate in the performing arts. "Dr. Andy" is a developmental pediatrician and the Chief of the Section of Child Development at the University of Illinois in Peoria. He is the primary medical specialist in Central Illinois involved in the diagnosis and treatment of children with disabilities, but has also directed and performed in many community Theater Productions in the area. He created The Penguin Project recognizing that theater not only provides children with a valuable recreational experience and an opportunity to display their creative talents, but also enhances social interaction, communication skills, assertiveness, and self-esteem. The Penguin Project strives to demonstrate that individuals with disabilities are fully capable of participating in community activities with the same dedication and enthusiasm as others, if given opportunity and support.

BILLY ELLIOT is the joyous celebration of one boy's journey to make his dreams come true. Set in a small town, the heartwarming story follows Billy as he stumbles out of the boxing ring and into a ballet class, discovering a surprising talent that inspires his family and his whole community and changes his life forever. The winner of ten 2009 Tony Awards including Best Musical, BILLY ELLIOT features music by Elton John, book and lyrics by Lee Hall, choreography by Peter Darling and direction by Stephen Daldry. BILLY ELLIOT is currently playing through January 15 only at the Ford Center/Oriental Theatre. Individual tickets range in price from $30 to $100. A select number of premium seats are also available. Tickets are available at all Broadway In Chicago Box Offices (24 W. Randolph St., 151 W. Randolph St. and 18 W. Monroe St.), the Broadway In Chicago Ticket Line at (800) 775-2000, all Ticketmaster retail locations (including Hot Tix and select Carson Pirie Scott, Coconuts and fye stores), and online at www.BroadwayInChicago.com. For groups of 15 or more, call (312) 977-1710.