The Northbrook Park District, in response to Northbrook families, has just created The Bright Star Theatre Company for young people with special needs. The new program will pair young people (ages 11-22) who have a disability with "creative companions" so that everyone can have access to a theater experience through their local park district. The Company will receive support through the Northern Suburban Special Recreation Association.

The program will start with theater games, movement exercises and musical training. During the second half of the program, there will be rehearsals for a full musical production in the Park District's main-stage theater.

We have participated in the Northbrook Park District's theater program, and have been to many performances. It's a top-notch operation, and the establishment of The Bright Star Theatre Company is a big step toward inclusion of young people with disabilities in a very successful park district program. Bravo!

Disability Awareness:   Welcoming, Talked directly to the person/people with disability, Friendly, Gave choices, Gave extra time, Respectful, Helpful with assistance or accommodation, Flexible service, Physically accessible, Accessible Parking

Northbrook has an outstanding park district, with a wide array of park sites and facilities, programs and services, and special events for residents of all ages and abilities. The Park District is committed to accessibility and to providing quality service and recreation to all. Throughout our son's childhood, we have enjoyed using the swimming pools and playgrounds during the summer, and participated in the SPICE (Special People's Ice Skating Experience) program in the winter. The Park District's many theatrical productions for children and its many outdoor festivals and events, such as Touch-A-Truck, Park Fest (concert series), Art in the Park, etc. have always been a great source of recreation and entertainment for our son and our family. While we have been reluctant to try "inclusion" with the Park District because we didn't expect to have a good experience, we are currently working with the Park District's wonderful theater program, under the leadership of Dr. Greg Dennhardt ("Doc") so that our son can have a chance to sing and dance and act. We have found everyone at the Park District so far to be welcoming and accommodating, and look forward to expanding our son's social and recreational opportunities through the Park District.

Disability Awareness:   Welcoming, Talked directly to the person/people with disability, Friendly, Gave choices, Gave extra time, Respectful, Helpful with assistance or accommodation, Flexible service, Physically accessible, committed to providing inclusion opportunities