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Carole Mikita Reporting Many people have repeated the cry "I'm going to Disneyland!" But a group called PALS will perform there and break down barriers at the same time.
With this group, there are sparkles on more than the costumes. Performing Artists Lengthening Stride, or PALS, is rehearsing for a very important appearance. The Magic Kingdom has invited them to be the first visiting performers with Downs Syndrome.
Jeremy Taylor, PALS Dancer, Age 20: Q-"Tell me where you're going this summer.” “I'm going to Disneyland.”
Kenly Moore, PALS Dancer, Age 9: Q-"What kind of dancing are you gonna do?” “I”m gonna do moves, do really good moves.”
Their teacher is inspired by two of her dancers, her brother and sister.
Janalyn Holman, PALS Director: "The idea of Disneyland just came from, we really wanted to let this group have the same opportunities that any other dance group would be allowed to have."
Pam Holman, PALS Mom: “There's never been a group of special needs individuals, ever, that have performed at Disneyland. And so we're kind of the pioneers of that.”
Dancing adds to this group's physical fitness, creativity and self-esteem. There are not only group numbers, but solos. We're all waiting to see Jassie perform.
Jasmine Holman, PALS Dancer, Age 12: Q-"What are you gonna do at Disneyland? “I”m gonna go see my true love” Q-”Your tru love? Who's your true love?” “Aladdin.”
Jasmine and Aladdin and PALS together for a first-of-its-kind performance in Disneyland, August 1st.
