Shining Stars Debut at Paper Mill Playhouse
Shining Stars Network
After making their successful Broadway debut recently at the Gershwin Theatre, Shining Stars Network, a regional theater group for young adults with disabilities and their typical peers, will be performing a groundbreaking show at the Paper Mill Playhouse, Millburn, NJ on August 5, 2023. The esteemed group will perform a selection of songs and dance from Broadway, movies and more! Shining Stars Network will be the first group of performers with special needs to be featured on the main stage in Paper Mill Playhouse history. The Tony award-winning Paper Mill Playhouse has been offering a theater experience since the late 1700’s and is excited to bring this unprecedented performance to their stage as part of their Theatre for Everyone program.
“We are beyond thrilled to partner with the iconic Paper Mill Playhouse to bring this show to life,” noted Shining Stars Network co-founder & CEO Mike Curci. “Our cast is so excited and we can’t wait for our stars to shine at such an amazing venue and to work with the talented Paper Mill team.”
The Shining Stars Network cast recently celebrated their ten-year anniversary of inclusive theater performances with the assistance of typical buddies. It all began in a local home with a karaoke machine and people with disabilities who just wanted to perform to the best of their abilities with joy and acceptance. Shining Stars Network has performed in front of large audiences at the Union County Performing Arts Center, the Paper Mill Cabaret, and most recently the Gershwin theater on Broadway in New York City. They provide a safe and enthusiastic learning experience, culminating with a professionally staged performance.
Tickets for the Paper Mill performance start at $25 and can be purchased at:my.papermill.org/shiningstars. More information about Shining Stars Network can be found atshiningstarsnetwork.org/.
Shining Stars Network offerings include their annual “Evening of Shining Stars” spring show, a two-week Summer Workshop for individuals 21 and over, Camp Shine for students under 21, and their annual “Christmas Spectacular” in December.
“We’re all about inclusion and opportunity while building self-esteem and creating friendships,” noted Shining Stars co-founder and Show Director Sally Curci. “There have been so many incredible performances over the years and we can’t wait to see our stars shine on the Paper Mill stage.”
“Each opportunity offers our special cast members a chance to create lifetime memories,” added Mike Curci. “Our ensemble just made their Broadway debut at the “Arts for Autism” concert at the Gershwin Theatre, where they received a standing ovation, and now, the amazing opportunity to perform a full show on the legendary Paper Mill stage will be another dream come true.”
SHINING STARS NETWORK is a non profit organization based in Cranford, N.J. founded by Sally and Mike Curci that shines the light on the special needs community by creating opportunities in the performing arts, with the goal of building self-confidence and self-esteem while enjoying the experience of performing on stage. Now entering its 6th year, Camp Shine (for ages 10-20 years) and The Shining Stars Summer Workshop (21 and over performers) are two-week intensive programs open to everyone, including those with developmental disabilities, and will take place Aug. 14-25. To register, or for for more information on Shining Stars Network or any of their programs, please visit ShiningStarsNetwork.org or send your email to ShiningStarsNetwork@gmail.com.
Courtesy photos
