Fox Valley Rep's Performing Arts Academy Announces New Program for Youth with Autism and Developmental Disabilities

FVR Performing Arts Academy begins their seventh year with a new and exciting program for students with Autism and Developmental Disabilities. Coming this July, students can explore the performing arts through puppetry, drama, music while developing social skills and communication.

Together FVR Education Manager Tracy Whiteside and Instructor Morgan Madison have designed these classes so that each child's unique needs are met. Madison hopes to bring her eight years of successful experiences to the Fox Valley area, encouraging each child to explore their own creativity, and, heighten their basic skills while doing it.

"When I first started working with developmentally disabled children, my theatrical background began meshing with the formal training I had received. I found the children to be receptive to artistic discovery and it saddened me that they had no opportunities to explore this fascinating new world," says Instructor Morgan Madison. "I convinced the education director at a local theater company to allow me to start a program for children with special needs. After the first day of class a mother came to me in tears and told me that she saw her son make eye contact for the first time in his six years of life. That same child began speaking for the first time during our time together. The arts is a safe space where all children can develop skills that will aid them throughout their life. Theatrical exploration has amazing benefits for children who are developmentally disabled, and they will have a fantastic time on this new and exciting expedition!"

These new summer camps will be an addition to the several award-winning summer camps that take place June through August at Fox Valley Rep's home, Pheasant Run Resort. Enrollments are now being accepted online at www.foxvalleyrep.org/education/specialneeds or by calling 630-364-0550.