Marklund’s Developmental Training Program presents ‘Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer’

December 7, 2009 by Andy Richardson  
Filed under Community Events

December 16, 2009
1:30 pm
1:30 pm

Welcome back!

In celebration of the holidays, Marklund’s Developmental Training Program proudly presents the musical “Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer.” Curtain is at 1:15 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 16, in the multipurpose room at Marklund Hyde Center, 1S450 Wyatt Dr., Geneva.

The play is modified creatively for Marklund’s clients to provide maximum participation by the use of adaptive devices such as switches and augmentive communication tools that provide extraordinary tactile and audible feedback to people living with developmental disabilities. Also, participation is enhanced by singing and playing musical instruments. Performing provides Marklund clients a sense of normalcy and a feeling of pride and accomplishment. They enjoy feeling part of something fun and meaningful and gain valuable experience by using their talking devices, their voices and standing devices.

“I love celebrating the holidays with the clients and helping them to have a full and active holiday season,” said Rose Vicker, physical therapist assistant “The smiles on their faces and the pride and satisfaction they feel is so rewarding and puts a big smile on my face and even gets me teary-eyed at times.”

The cast includes:
Rudolph – Tom C.
Santa Claus – Mitchell S
Mrs. Claus – Regina T.
Yukon Cornelius – Mike K.
Abominable Snow Monster – Julian P.
Sam the Snowman- Narrator – Jack H.
King Moonraiser-Lion – Nick C.
Hermie the Misfit Elf – Danny S.
Clarise-Rudolph’s girlfriend – Michele W.
Comet reindeer trainer – Jim K.
Donner-Rudolpoh’s dad – Ashish
Reindeer-Rudolph’s mom – Heather M.
Reindeer – Adam G.
Reindeer – Jackie W.
Reindeer – Bill W.
Reindeer – Allie P.
Elf teacher – Rosie B.
Elf – Michele B.
Elf – Dawn M.
Misfit doll – Ruthann B.
Misfit Cowboy – Nick P.
Charlie in the box – Brian R.
Choir – Sharon V. Helena H. and others

“This show is a great opportunity for our friends and neighbors to see what great actors our clients are,” said Vicki Krystof, communications manager at Marklund. “The audience can experience how Marklund believes in our clients’ artistic capabilities and how we work to see them succeed in all areas – including a holiday production. This is one play that will bring the holiday spirit and infinite smiles to the audience as well as to our clients.”

The performance is free and open to the public. Children are warmly welcome. Refreshments will be served following the performance. For more information, call Krystof at 630-593-5482.

About Marklund

Founded in 1954, Marklund enriches the lives of those with special healthcare needs by honoring the unique purpose of each individual. Those served are able to enjoy a full and meaningful life supported by a compassionate nurturing environment; a strong partnership with the community; and an unmatched dedication to personal growth. Marklund’s vision: Rising above limitations.

Marklund’s main campus in Geneva, Ill., consists of six 16-bed residential homes for adults with severe and profound developmental disabilities as well as an educational and training center that provides for the intensive medical, social, emotional and physical needs of the residents.

In Bloomingdale, Ill., the Marklund Philip Center for Children encompasses the Children’s Home, a skilled pediatric nursing facility for infants, children and medically fragile adults; the Day School, an education program for children ages 3 – 21; early intervention for infants and toddlers age birth to three; and Marklund’s respite program.

For more information about Marklund, call Vicki Krystof at 630-593-5482 or visit http://www.marklund.org.