Marklund clients to stage 'Rudolph' musical

In celebration of the holidays, Marklund's Developmental Training Program will present the musical "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" at 1:15 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 16, in the multipurpose room at Marklund Hyde Center, 1S450 Wyatt Drive, Geneva.

The play is modified creatively for Marklund's clients to provide maximum participation by the use of adaptive devices such as switches and augmentative communication tools that provide 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: Tom C. as Rudolph; Mitchell S. as Santa Claus; Regina T. as Mrs. Claus; Mike K. as Yukon Cornelius; Julian P. as Abominable Snow Monster; Jack H. as Sam the Snowman-Narrator; Nick C. as King Moonraiser-Lion; Danny S. as Hermie the Misfit Elf; Michele W. as Clarise-Rudolph's girlfriend; Jim K. as Comet reindeer trainer; Ashish as Donner-Rudolph's dad; Heather M. as Reindeer-Rudolph's mom; Adam G., Jackie W., Bill W. and Allie P. as Reindeers; Rosie B. as Elf teacher; Michele B. and Dawn M. as Elves; Ruthann B. as Misfit doll; Nick P. as Misfit Cowboy; Brian R. as Charlie in the Box; Sharon V., Helena H. and others as the Choir.

"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. Refreshments will be served after the performance. For details, call Krystof at (630) 593-5482.