When it comes to the day-to-day routine of show business, the schedule can be demanding. But, like most actors, Kim Freeman knows that all the work leads up to the most enjoyable part — the sense of accomplishment when the curtain comes down.

"It's fun when you are at the end of the play," said the 39-year-old. "It is finally over."

Freeman and about 30 other cast members will get to experience that feeling yet again this year as St. Peters-based Community Living Inc. puts on its production of "Willy Wonka Junior." The play will feature two performances, a 3 p.m. matinee and a 7 p.m. show May 7. Both will be at Francis Howell High School, 7001 Highway 94 South.

It's the sixth year for the tradition which in the past has showcased such classics as "Aladdin" and "Peter Pan."

Jodi Darrohn, director of recreation services for the organization, said the amount of work put in by the agency's clients, all of whom have developmental disabilities, is as impressive as the final result.

"They do everything from beginning to end, learning their lines, doing dancing and singing," she said. "They will perform a theater production just like you would see at the Fox or Stages or anywhere."

This year's cast is the biggest yet. Darrohn said no one is ever turned down for a role, a point she noted is especially important for people who can all too often be treated dismissively.

"When the people that we serve are in high school or even church sometimes they are overlooked for things on stage because of the way they look or the way they talk," she said. "This just gives them a chance to be seen and be heard. They work so hard and it really helps them to come out of their shell and be the person they want people to see."

Tickets to the show will be $2. That's a change from previous years, said Darrohn, who noted that rising costs have forced the switch from free admission.

Community Living provides services to about 800 families and the play will feature a wide variety of clients from those with Down syndrome or autism to individuals with learning disabilities or cerebral palsy. Organizers make certain everyone has the opportunity to participate. Darrohn remembers well the year they did "Grease" and a nonverbal individual played the male role in the song "Beauty School Dropout." The music and singing were piped in as he danced.

"I bet you a million bucks that probably half the audience didn't know that he actually didn't sing that song," Darrohn recalled.

As much as the participants enjoy the experience, their families may like it even more. Darrohn said it is not uncommon for audience members to be in tears of happiness by the end of the performance.

"The parents are just overcome with joy and emotion when we're finished," she said. "I don't think they always realize how much effort is put into a production we put on."

Carol Miller certainly realizes it. Miller, who is Freeman's mother, said her daughter has been practicing tirelessly every week since January.

"She just loves it," Miller said. "She rehearses and she really does a good job. She likes the people there. She likes acting and it gives her great rewards."

Miller said Freeman has regularly expressed interest in drama classes.

As for Freeman herself, she's in her third year of performing at Community Living and she's still enjoying every minute.

"The CLI people are just wonderful," she said. "The whole staff is wonderful."

For more information about the upcoming play, call 636-614-1325.