The word ‘can't' became ‘can' at show featuring special-needs performers

For a few hours Friday, a group of special needs adults had the chance to forget about their differences.

They were the stars of their own show alongside dancers with The Florida Ballet.

The performance featured acting, dancing, singing and a radio show.

Percy Howliet’s voice was heard over the loudspeakers throughout his school’s gym.

“It’s such a thrill, I love it,” said Howliet.

This year, he was the voice of Buzz Lightyear during Pine Castle’s Toyland at the Castle program.

For Howliet, hearing himself over the airwaves is his dream.

“It actually started from a love of music I had when I was a child,” he said.

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He was one of about 60 performers with special needs who took to the radio booth, the stage or the microphone to show off their talents.

The Florida Ballet teamed up with Pine Castle to choreograph a special performance.

“It warms my heart so much 'cause they’re so into it. They want to dance so bad and I love seeing it, like they’re energetic about it,” said ballet dancer Olivia Barcia.

This is the first time that Pine Castle and The Florida Ballet teamed up to create a production, and it likely won’t be the last.

The performance is more than just a show. Pine Castle CEO Lori Ann Whittington said it’s a chance to make dreams come true.

“They’re no different than you and me, and I think that’s our message to the community is when we focus on what they can do instead of what they can’t do, amazing things can happen,” said Whittington.

For these performers, the word “can’t” just doesn't exist.

Howliet said he’s even ready to take it to the next level.

“You know about T-Roy from 93.3 The Beat and stuff like that, so he better watch out,” Howliet said.

Pine Castle and The Florida Ballet are currently working to raise money to continue serving the community through similar projects.

To help Pine Castle, visit https://pinecastle.org/donate/weaverchallenge/ and to help The Florida Ballet, visit https://floridaballet.org/delores-barr-weaver-matching-challenge/.

Cox Media Group