The Schaumburg-based UPS for DownS — United Parent Support for Down Syndrome — continues to be a leader in inclusive theater. Its annual musical truly advances the organization’s mission of inspiring community acceptance by sharing the abilities of people with Down syndrome.
Garrett Anderson of Palatine and Valerie Pajerski of Arlington Heights
This year’s musical — its 19th — is the 10-time Tony-nominated show, Something Rotten, Jr. Shows take place at 7 p.m. Thursday and Friday, and at 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, all at Saint Viator High School. Presale tickets are $17, with tickets at the door, $20. An all-show pass is $50. Purchase tickets, here.
While not as well known as some of their earlier productions, this musical comedy was chosen as a challenge to push the boundaries of expectations a little further, says Sandy Pazerunas of Inverness, producer and board member of UPS for DownS.
“It is not a well known story for our community and consequently our cast had to dig deeper to tell this playful comedy set in the Renaissance, with its Shakespearean language and broadway references,” she says. “But the cast has risen to the challenge.”
The story revolves around the the Bottom brothers, Nick and Nigel, who struggle to find success in the theatrical world of 1590 London, as they compete with the wild popularity of their chief rival, William Shakespeare. However, they devise a radical plan: to write the very first musical.
Megan Gray, theater director and fine arts department chair at Saint Viator High School, returns to direct the show. It features a cast of 44 actors, with and without Down syndrome, as well their friends and peers, whom Gray says have poured their hearts into the production.
Henry Romberg and Garrett Anderson, both of Palatine
“They have memorized lines, learned choreography, supported one another through rehearsals — and embraced every silly, spectacular moment this show has to offer,” Gray says. “They have proven that theatre is not about perfection, but is about expression, connection, joy and always being true to yourself.”
The show and its message could not be more fitting for these actors with Down syndrome, Gray adds.
“Beneath the tap shoes, ruffled collars, and hilarious wordplay is a story about believing in yourself when the world tells you that you need to be something else to succeed,” she says. “Nick gets caught up in the competition and loses sight of who he is, and it’s up to Nigel to remind him this important message, ‘To thine own self be true.’ ”
Veronica Keigher of Elk Grove Village
For the last few years, UPS for DownS has partnered not only with Gray in directing the show, but with Saint Viator High School, whose students help with supporting the actors and providing lighting, sound and technical expertise. As producer of the show, Pazerunas describes the collaborators as talented and compassionate.
“Our partnership with Director Megan Gray and Saint Viator High School remains a highlight of our experience.” Pazerunas says. “Their fine community and students have been wonderful collaborators with our cast, proving the best magic happens when we work together.”
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