Christmas by Candlelight, Act ll

 Opening the second half of the show was the hand bell choir with a slide show of student artwork.

The hand bells.

Alexis getting ready for her keyboard solo.

The Choir.

Karen and Michelle start the 'Baking Cookies' dance.

'Baking Cookies'... the dance.

Ron playing his accordion.

Paul and Cathy sing a duet of 'The Christmas Song' or 'Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire'.

Mr. and Mrs. Claus!  (Maurica and Ben)

The Grand Finale, 'Joy to the World'.

The audience gives us a standing ovation!

The staff takes a bow.

Here is the second installment of Hope University performing in their annual Christmas Program, titled 'Christmas by Candlelight'.  The students enjoyed dancing, singing and acting as they participated on stage.  Photographed by Eric Stoner.

A Puppet Show!

Frank L. (Down's Syndrome) with puppet.

Frank L. and assistant Miguel A. (Down's Syndrome) on stage with puppet.

Gary A. (Prader Willi) smiling as he enjoys the puppet show.

Cooperative behavior can get you good rewards as Frank has found out.  He has a card in his wallet for the instructors to sign after each class, when his card is full he gets to put on a puppet show.  Well, today was the day for Frank's special show.  He brought his puppet, some fun music and had some help from the student audience to help his show along.  Frank looks so happy as he performs for us and enjoys his time on the stage.  The students also win as they have some time to relax and enjoy the show.  As we strive for acceptance and joy here at Hope University, everyone benefits. 
"Frank's puppet shows are always funny."
Lori S.
"I liked having my picture taken with my two best friends."
Tanette T.
"I liked it!"
Ana P.
"I laughed a lot."
Katie F.

Lori S. , Tanette T. and Katie F. enjoying the puppet show.

Frank certainly has support from his fellow students

It was 'Comin' Up Christmastime'!

Terry C. (Downs Syndrome) Margaret K. Melanie V.(Downs Syndrome) and Miguel A.(Downs Syndrome)  play the bells.

Margaret K, Chris F.(Williams Syndrome)  Jason R. and Lori R.(Williams Syndrome) dance with snow branches.

Beautiful Crystal S.(Downs Syndrome)  in a graceful dance.

Melanie V.  Marvin C. Frank L. Tanette T. and Darren C. (all with Downs Syndrome) dance and play in the 'inflatable band'.

Fred M. greets the audience in front of Hope U's choir and drama.

Margaret K. Mikki D. Dena S. (CP) April R. (Hydroencephally)  and Cathy A. (PKU) sing with the choir.

Chris F.(Williams Syndrome)  Jim L.(Autism)  Jason R. Tom V. (Fragile X) and Paul K.(Autism) sing with the choir.

'Angels' by student Miguel A.(Downs Syndrome) hung over the stage.

The students of Hope University performed beautifully at their annual Holiday program titled 'Comin' Up Christmastime'.  There was square dancing and sign language, poetry, bells and so much more.  Every student had a part in this beautifully performed show.  There are DVD's of the show available if you would like one, please call the school (714) 778-4440 to get your copy.  The students did an amazing job and fun was had by all.  We had our famous boutique of handmade items produced by the students in the lobby of the theater and sales were brisk.  The talent shown by this population is inspiring and must be seen to be believed.
Some of the highlights of the show were the bell choir playing traditional holiday music.  The dance class performing a magical snow scene and the drama classes wonderful addition of holiday humor!  If you would be interested in attending this years (2011) show or any other of our performances, please call us for more information.

Halloween at Hope U.

Hope University's Halloween party was a blast!  Fun was had by all.  We were treated to a puppet show, put on by student Frank Luna with an improvisational  performance assisted by Miguel Aldaz.  There was a costume contest and parade, a doughnut eating contest followed by a dance with music DJ'd by Hope U's very own spinning DJ, Tom Veltman.

Amy (Williams Syndrome)  as a Kitty Cat

Carol (NOS) as a Nurse

Sharon (NOS) as a Sheriff

Terry ( Down's Syndrome) as a Lady Bug

Karen (Down's Syndrome) and Chris (NOS) showing off their awards

Shadow (Delores, Down's Syndrome) with her hand in the 'feely box' with Hope U instructor Shelley as Cesar waits.

Here are some photos of the students, costumes and fun.