Sally and Mike Curci founded the Shining Stars Network (SSN) 13 years ago after their two special needs children and their friends performed in their living room with a microphone and karaoke machine. They had known that there was an important need for more inclusive opportunities for individuals with special needs, and were determined to share the talent, commitment and personalities of these teens with the community-at-large. Today, the Shining Stars Network is comprised of more than 50 cast members, ages 14 to adult, who have performed on Broadway at the Gershwin Theatre, the historic Paper Mill Playhouse, as well as multiple performances at the Union County Performing Arts Center in front of thousands of audience members. More importantly, through Shining Stars, these amazing performers have developed skills, strong friendships, self-confidence, and a network of community members who admire and respect their hard work and determination.

I met Sally and Mike as guests at The Ampersand Inn. I learned that Sally was a special education teacher and that Mike had a broadcasting background. Within minutes, I was engrossed in their story about creating the SSN and organizing, choreographing, fundraising, developing a strong parent community, building a “buddy program” between local high school students and the SSN performers and myriad other tasks involved in running a performance-based non-profit organization. The Shining Stars performance of “This is Me” received a standing ovation on Broadway and their performance at The Paper Mill Playhouse was the first main stage full production starring a cast of performers with special needs in the 50-year history of that venue. After seeing the Shining Stars perform at the Paper Mill Playhouse, I “wanted in” and, a few months later, I was on the gala committee for the Shining Stars Network Fundraiser!

As I got to know Sally & Mike, I learned that their youngest daughter, Courtney, was diagnosed with leukemia. Throughout her period of treatment, Mike & Sally continued to run SSN rehearsals, were heavily involved with their son Brian’s college experience (he’s on the Autism spectrum) while also maintaining their full-time employment. Always positive in their approach to life, they continued to focus on the needs of the Shining Stars, to support their daughter, and to take on their new role as grandparents. It is truly a family affair, with eldest daughter Nicole, the show’s co-director, and son-in-law James, and son Michael, also an important part of the team. Their mission is to build self-esteem and self-confidence through the performing arts and they feel blessed to watch their stars shine on and off the stage.

One of the hallmarks of the Shining Stars Network is the way the participants foster relationships – for themselves, for the people for whom they perform, and even for the venue owners and managers who experience their performance. The owner of the Park Chateau, who donates his venue for the gala, asked Mike when next year’s gala would be and offered his venue before dessert was served; the Buddies who had been working alongside the Shining Stars were beaming from ear to ear while participating in the performance; the Shining Stars parents glowed with gratitude for the supportive, empowering space that Shining Stars has created for their children. The performers themselves shine brightest, showing audiences the power of inclusion, talent, and determination. And me? I have not only “been changed for the better, I have been changed for good!” (from Wicked)

Irene Dorzback

January 2025

For further information on the Shining Stars Network, please write to: shiningstarsnetwork@gmail.com