There was a veritable zoo of creatures at Christ’s Church recently, but luckily animal control officers didn’t have to be called in.

Instead, hundreds of people were entertained when the week-long Arizona Magic of Music and Dance Camp culminated with a special performance in the church’s main auditorium.

More importantly, more than two dozen special needs youths and young adults were able to participate in a special event that started here several years ago.

Labeled with the mission of “magical possibilities for youth with disabilities,” the annual camp was created to provide an authentic theatrical experience for children and young adults with physical or cognitive impairments.

It helps build their self-esteem through the pride and joy of performance.

In addition, many teens volunteered as “buddies” to work with the special needs youths, developing their leadership talents and pride as they helped the actors transcend their disabilities and discover magical possibilities.

Those starring in “Swingin’ Safari” were Emma Biggs, Lauren Hummel, Alexandra Horne, Daniel O’Keeffe, Brian Baldino, Peter Yanovitch, Jessica Beason, Bob Ogden, Barrett Dunham, Jacob Sparks, Bill Bacon and Grace Linamen.

Also, Crystal Braden, Sam Irving, Kellen Washum, Alexander Wolkins, Alan Smith, Tristan Johnson, Luke Humble, Kevin Douglass, Renee Fox, Sidney Daswick, Emily Donley, Betsy Niccoli, Conor Gunderson and Andrew Fox.

Executive Director Susan Smalley noted several major themes permeate through such a week-long camp:

*Participants blossom with joy and pride in their accomplishments when they hear the applause and see the appreciation of the audience as they perform their play on the final day of camp.

*Parents experience the thrill of seeing their children, who experience fun, friendship and opportunities to develop their creativity, self-esteem and pride in accomplishment.

*Volunteers experience the life-changing joy that comes from working with these special people. By helping participants transcend their disabilities, the volunteers develop their own strengths, values and abilities. Also, they learn the power and effectiveness of servant leadership.

*Communities that support and develop their most challenged residents are communities that are creating exceptional value and pride for all of their residents.