Performing Arts

Performers in zebra, lion and bird costumes on stage in the Zack's Place production of The Lion King

Theater Program

Our Theater Program is one of the most exciting and anticipated programs of the year! Over several months, our participants come together to create an original production—from writing and editing the script to rehearsing and, ultimately, performing for the greater community.

Everyone who wants to participate has a place in the production. Some take center stage as performers, while others contribute behind the scenes as stagehands, costume helpers, set builders and more. We are incredibly grateful for the many community volunteers who join us each year and help make this a truly collaborative experience.

There is so much that goes into bringing a show to life. Together, we develop the script, build our cast, find and create costumes, design an amazing set and share the excitement throughout the community. Our biweekly rehearsals require dedication and teamwork, and that hard work shines through when the curtain rises.

Each year, our production draws enthusiastic audiences and often fills the local theater to capacity. But the most rewarding moment comes when the curtain closes and we see the incredible joy, pride and sense of accomplishment on the faces of our performers and volunteers. Our annual play is a celebration of creativity, friendship and the remarkable talents within the Zack’s Place community.

Six performers in hyena costumes on stage during The Lion King

Two performers in sparkly blue bird costumes dancing on stage during The Lion King

Traveling Troupe

We are thrilled to welcome a wonderful new theater partnership with Brattleboro’s Traveling Troupe, a theater group made up of adults with special needs. This exciting partnership gives our participants the opportunity to connect with other performers who share their love of theater and understand the joy of being part of a creative community.

Members of the Traveling Troupe visit Zack’s Place to lead engaging theater workshops, bringing their energy, experience and enthusiasm right to our center. Our participants have the chance to learn new skills, explore different ways of performing and, most importantly, have fun together.

We have also had the wonderful opportunity to travel to Brattleboro to see the Traveling Troupe perform in their own theater. Watching our new friends take the stage is inspiring and gives our participants the chance to experience theater from the audience’s perspective while cheering on fellow performers.

This partnership is about more than theater. It is about connection, shared experiences and celebrating the talents and abilities of people with special needs. We look forward to growing this relationship and creating many more memorable experiences together.

Five performers in costume posing around a large wooden tub on stage

Kerry Rosenthal smiling as she plays her guitar

Singing with Kerry

Every Monday afternoon, we gather for our much-loved Singing with Kerry program, led by the incredibly talented Kerry Rosenthal. With her guitar in hand, Kerry brings energy and enthusiasm to every session as we sing a wonderful mix of beloved classics and new favorites.

Throughout the year, we are also fortunate to welcome guest singers who add their own voices and musical styles to the experience. Everyone is encouraged to participate, whether singing along, requesting a favorite song or simply enjoying the music.

There is no audition and no need to be a great singer—everyone has a voice at Zack’s Place! Kerry creates an atmosphere filled with encouragement, laughter and camaraderie, making Monday afternoons a joyful highlight of our week.

Singing and Music with Mark and Kathleen

Mark and Kathleen bring music, energy and plenty of surprises to Zack’s Place! With Mark on the banjo and Kathleen on the keyboard, they lead us in singing many of our favorite songs and encourage everyone to join in.

Participants are invited to make song requests, and it doesn’t take long before the room is filled with music, laughter and dancing. These sessions are a wonderful opportunity to express ourselves, connect with friends and simply enjoy the happiness that music brings.

Kathleen playing the keyboard and Mark playing a ukulele during a music session at Zack's Place

Northern Stage

Twice a year, our participants enjoy an exciting field trip to Northern Stage in White River Junction, Vermont, for an opportunity to experience outstanding professional theater.

Northern Stage brings engaging plays and musicals to the stage throughout the year, and our participants love being part of the audience. We have enjoyed memorable productions such as Beauty and the Beast and Peter and Wendy, experiencing the magic of live theater together.

These outings give our participants the chance to enjoy high-quality performances while creating shared memories with friends and staff. We are grateful for the opportunity to experience the excitement, storytelling and wonder of live theater at Northern Stage.