March 15: Magic, Music, and Inclusion with Famous PEOPLE Players and CVNQuinte
An extraordinary entertainment event of world-class quality comes to the Quinte community this March 15 at the Belleville’s Empire Theatre. CVNQuinte, an organization devoted to supporting individuals with developmental disabilities, is partnering with the renowned Famous PEOPLE Players to present the five-star production, Twist and Shout. This vibrant and inspiring show promises to delight audiences while raising awareness about the abilities and contributions of all members of society.
“We’re thrilled to bring Famous PEOPLE Players to Belleville for this special event,” says Terri Korkush, Executive Director of CVNQuinte. “It’s a night to celebrate abilities, support a great cause, and enjoy a performance that’s nothing short of magical.”
World Renowned Theatrical Experience Coming to Belleville
Famous PEOPLE Players is an internationally acclaimed theater group based in Toronto, recognized for their spectacular black-light performances. What makes them truly unique is their mission: the majority of the cast and crew are individuals with developmental disabilities. For five decades, they have showcased their immense talent, breaking barriers and redefining perceptions of what people with developmental disabilities can achieve.
Terri emphasizes how the show aligns with CVNQuinte’s mission to foster an inclusive community: “This performance is not just about entertainment; it’s about showing that everyone has abilities worth celebrating. Together with Famous PEOPLE Players, we are shining a light on the talents and potential of all citizens in our community.”
Raising the Profile of an Exceptionally Successful Organization
This event also marks an important step for CVNQuinte in raising its public profile. Founded in 1978, CVNQuinte has quietly but passionately supported people with developmental disabilities in the Quinte region for decades. The organization offers a wide array of services, from housing support to skill-building initiatives, helping individuals lead fulfilling lives as active members of their community.
“We’ve often been called the best-kept secret in Belleville,” says Terri. “This event is an opportunity to change that. We want people to know about the work we do, the lives we impact, and how they can help us continue supporting individuals in our region.”
Funding Essential Services and Developing New Opportunities
The proceeds from this performance will directly benefit CVNQuinte, helping the organization provide essential services that are not always fully funded. These include emergency assistance, support for community activities, and new initiatives like CVNQuinte Adventures, which will offer themed retreats tailored to the interests of adults with developmental disabilities.
“Every ticket purchased helps us provide unique opportunities that enhance the lives of people in our community,” Terri explains. “It’s a chance for families and friends to enjoy an unforgettable night of music and theatre while making a meaningful impact.”
The collaboration between Famous PEOPLE Players and CVNQuinte underscores a shared vision for a more inclusive society, where individuals are valued for their abilities rather than defined by their disabilities.
Shaping a Better Future Through Theatre
Diane Dupuy, the powerhouse visionary founder of Famous PEOPLE Players, remembers the uphill battle of changing societal perceptions through the company’s early years. “When I founded the company, I chose a technique called black-light in which you don't see the players,” she explains. “That was because we were not allowed to be integrated into society. So we had to hide.”
“We've kept that because it's part of our history,” says Diane. “I remember back in those days a young man who lived in a room with a towel over his mirror because he couldn't look at himself. He was born with a deformed face; he had a very large head that was a deep gray color. And to see him stand on stage with Liberace on Broadway and get those rave critic reviews, you know, it blew my mind. It made me cry.”
The star power that lined up to amplify Diane’s vision propelled the Famous PEOPLE Players on a journey that would change attitudes and governance for over 50 years. Paul Newman. Al Gore. Deepak Chopra. And, of course, Liberace. And while the Players have performed everywhere from USA to China, their permanent home in Toronto puts them in a great position to offer a date for audiences in Belleville.
More Than Entertainment
As the hosting organization for the Famous PEOPLE Players visit to our region, CVNQuinte Executive Director Terri Korkush makes an irresistible appeal: “This event is about so much more than entertainment. It’s about community, celebration, and creating a world where everyone belongs. I want people to fill these seats, have a great time and join us in making a difference.”
Famous PEOPLE Players founder Diane is confident when she promises an exceptional theatrical experience when the curtain goes up at the Empire: “It's going to open up on a dream,” she insists. “You're not going to see performers. You're going to see creatures. You're going to see life sized characters painted in bright fluorescent colors, and they're going to defy gravity right before your eyes. It is going to be mind boggling.”
Tickets for Twist and Shout are on sale now at the Empire Theatre or by visiting their website at this link. Don’t miss this chance to experience the magic and support an incredible cause as the stage illuminates at both 2pm and 7:30pm. Let’s celebrate abilities and build a brighter, more inclusive future—together.
For more information on CVNQuinte and how you can support their work, visit this section or follow them on social media @cvnquinte
Get excited about Twist & Shout as you watch this video preview:
