64 GoodLifeFamilyMag.com MARCH | APRIL 2018 by Lisa Rodenbaugh / Contributor Starcatchers perform TheStoryofSimba–TheLion’sKing on stage at Plano Children’sTheater. Many of us take for granted our children will have the oppor- tunity to shine on the football field or take center stage in a band concert or a musical. For families with a special needs child, this may be impossible to imagine. One program in Plano has a 20 year history of making the impossible possible. The North Texas Performing Arts Starcatchers program is a pioneer in employing drama and musical theatre in the therapy of special needs youth and adults. It has been providing opportunities for special needs children and adults to take the spotlight since 1997. Starcatch- er students are given opportunities to shine through drama, mu- sic, dance, and visual art. Due to the multi-sensory nature of the arts, increased involvement is associated with increased academic achievement and development of motor, communication, and so- cial skills. The Starcatchers program offers musical productions designed specifically for students with special needs. Students learn the fun- damentals of theatre and how to work together as a group. Each student is paired with a trained teen or adult intern who assists their development through rehearsals and shadows them during perfor- mances. Together they learn lines, songs, and dances and togeth- er they allow each student their moment to shine on stage. Their “Journey to Oz” special needs production to celebrate the 25th Anniversary of Plano Children’s Theatre’s performed to a sold out house in the fall of 2016. Starcatchers get the ability to “rock out” with the Rock Stars pro- gram. In this music therapy group students learn the fundamen- tals of music and the major rock instruments of keyboard, drums, bass, guitar, percussion and vocals, and will be assigned one of these based on their interest and ability. Taught by music therapy spe- cialists, the instruments and music are adapted to the individual and group skill level. Each student is paired with a trained teen or adult intern who assists student development through rehearsals and guides them during the concert. Starcatcher Art students explore and express themselves through the visual arts. Students learn through painting, drawing, and craft- ing. The Starcatcher Dance workshop allows students to learn the fundamentals of dance, core strength, and coordination through instruction and movement games. Starcatchers gain self-confidence, independence, and the ability to express him or herself and experience praise and recognition for a job well done. Parents get to watch their child transformed on stage and receive praise from their peers and others. In addition to Starcatchers perform TheStoryofSimba–TheLion’sKing on stage at Plano Children’sTheater. EMBRACE!