NCJW Traveling Players Bring Joy and Laughter to Kennedy School

It was nearly impossible not to dance along as a burst of colorful characters filled the Kennedy School cafeteria on April 10. A group of whimsical women—dressed as Buzz Lightyear, a Minion, Dr. Seuss, and SpongeBob SquarePants—led students in a lively sing-along that had everyone clapping, swaying and singing at the top of their lungs.

With infectious energy and big smiles, the NCJW Traveling Players turned an ordinary school morning into a magical experience. Belting out beloved classics like “Wheels on the Bus” and “Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes,” the players encouraged students to move, groove, and sing with joy.

“We are here, to lead good cheer,” they sang, before launching into a series of tunes with a friendship theme, such as Bruno Mars’ “Count on Me,” the Beatles’ “With a Little Help from My Friends” and the Golden Girls’ theme song, “Thank You for Being a Friend.”

“There is nothing more special than having a friend and nothing better than being a friend,” students were told. “Friends make our lives better in every way.”

The NCJW (National Council of Jewish Women) Traveling Players are a spirited group of women who bring silliness and fun—alongside powerful messages of respect, friendship, helpfulness, acceptance and self-esteem—to young people and adults with special needs. Now celebrating more than 40 years of service, the group is proud to be the longest-running community service project offered by the NCJW South Cook Section.

Twice a month during the school year, the Traveling Players visit schools, centers and organizations to perform original musical plays tailored for individuals with intellectual and physical challenges. Their performances feature familiar and beloved characters from film and television, including Nemo and Dory, Woody and Buzz Lightyear, Mary Poppins, Mickey and Minnie Mouse, and more.

Kennedy School, a specialized therapeutic day school operated by St. Coletta’s of Illinois, is one of the places they visit annually. The school serves students ages 3–22 with a range of disabilities, including intellectual and developmental delays. Students come from school districts across Chicago’s south, southwest, and western suburbs.

As always, the school was filled with smiles and laughter on April 10 as students connected with the performers—and the messages—through music and play. In a world that can often feel overwhelming, the NCJW Traveling Players are a heartwarming reminder of the power of joy, imagination and inclusion.

“Just because we don’t look alike, we can still be friends,” students were reminded. “A friend is the most important thing you can be. Try to be there for a friend.”