Special Gifts Theatre and Loyola Academy Bring The Wizard of Oz Jr. to Life

3/9/2026

The yellow brick road led to the Leemputte Family Theatre on February 28 and March 1 as Special Gifts Theatre and Loyola Academy presented an inspiring production of The Wizard of Oz Jr. in the McGrath Family Performing Arts Center.

This adapted musical featured an inclusive cast of Special Gifts Theatre actors with disabilities, joined by Loyola Academy students serving as peer mentor volunteers. Together, they created a joyful and transformative theatrical experience that celebrated friendship, courage, and the unique gifts each performer brought to the stage. The partnership reflects Loyola’s commitment to recognizing the inherent dignity of every person and forming students who lead with compassion and generosity of spirit.

Senior Peter Winslow '26, who has been involved with Special Gifts Theatre since his freshman year, reflected on the impact of the experience.

"When I first joined, I thought it would be a great way to give back, but the program turned out to be very different than I expected," he shared. "I formed genuine friendships with my buddies and other mentors. It’s such an awesome environment full of happiness and resilience. Having grown up with a sister with special needs, I understand how important confidence and support are for this community. Special Gifts Theatre creates a space where everyone can truly be themselves and have fun without pressure. I'm really grateful to have been part of it throughout high school—it's something I will carry with me after I graduate."

We are grateful to the following Loyola Academy students who participated as peer mentors:

Maddy Aguilar '26
Alice Alwin '28
Hannah Bock '27
Sofia Bongiovanni '26
Mary Jane Bukta '26
Sadie Callan '27
Chloe Cruz '27
Ella Darragh '27
Nora Durye '27
Charlotte Glen '27
Sean Gregg '26
Sophia Gripman '27
Margot Hickey '26
Alicia Hourihane '27
Ellory Madison '26
Nora McCurry '27
Grace Micucci '27
Julianne Miller '26
Winnie Orth '26
Burke Orth '28
Norah Parkinson '27
Mary Pezza '28
Margaret Roche '27
Ella Ryan '27
Lilly Ryan '26
Lexi Samartzis '27
Lilly Staunton '27
Nora Tagliamonte '27
Peter Winslow '26

Through laughter, music, and shared purpose, the production offered more than a performance—it was a powerful witness to community in action, reminding all in attendance that when we journey together, we help one another discover courage, heart, and a true sense of belonging.

Special Gifts Theatre, a local not-for-profit, is a proud partner of Loyola Academy. Through the performing arts, we work collaboratively to create inclusive and transformative experiences for individuals with disabilities to fully engage in the world.

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