Dr. Shaun McNiff is one of the world’s foremost authorities on the therapeutic effect of art on the lives of children. One of his key teachings is, "Whenever illness is associated with loss of soul, the arts emerge spontaneously as remedies, soul medicine."

That guiding principle will be on full display this week at the Milwaukee Theatre, when Express Yourself Milwaukee stages its 15th annual show featuring the talents of young people in music, spoken word, art and dance. The organization was started when Lori Vance, an art therapist and visual artist, opened a chapter of the Boston-based organization.

It’s a fascinating project that uses art as a way to help enhance and improve the lives of low-income children who often aren’t exposed to any kind of art education. The website for the organization makes an articulate and powerful case for what it does.

"Unconditional care is central to our therapy-based model," it says. "The support we provide builds trust and confidence, and lays a foundation for meaningful community contribution. It all comes together each May with a grand performance at The Milwaukee Theatre. The creative works of our young people are celebrated through an inspiring performance for friends, family and the community.

"For most, it’s a rare experience to have their contributions celebrated in public. For all, it’s proof that art is a powerful tool for connection."

This year’s celebration, "Illuminate," is the result of a year-long effort and mentoring by many of Milwaukee’s best artists from every field.

The music director for the show is David Wake, the brilliant leader of De La Buena. The Afro-Cuban and Latin jazz band has a sound unlike any other you can see in Milwaukee.

"I’m especially excited that we’ll have 120 children performers on stage ranging from ages seven to 21, accompanied by 30 adult musicians and artists," Wake said in a press release. "The production will also feature colorful costumes, set and props which our youth create in our own multi-arts studio."

Jonathan West, a famed and talented Milwaukee actor, director, producer and narrator, is one of the strong supporters of Express Yourself Milwaukee.

"A friend of mine filled me in about all the outstanding work the group does with kids in Milwaukee who face challenges in their daily lives," West said.  "I've learned so much more and been overwhelmed by the talent and leadership of Co-Executive Directors Lori Vance and Daisy Baumann.

"It's an exciting move for Express Yourself Milwaukee as they perform at the Milwaukee Theatre this year for the first time. This is a group all Milwaukee should know about because of the positive impact they are having on inner city youth, showing them a positive path towards self determination."  

Each year, they have a different theme for their annual show.

"Our theme of 'Illuminate' this year speaks directly to the sparks of ingenuity and positive expression that come from creative pursuits," Vance said in a press release.

"Our program participants are generating rays of hope by using arts as an expressive force for important personal and societal change. By shining light on creativity, 'Illuminate' will be a uniquely energetic and immersive happening that hopes to capture lightning in a bottle and offer the audience a taste of a truly impressive co-mingling of artistic forms."

The Thursday night event is free and open to the public. It starts at 6:30 p.m., and there will be a special pre-show reception for those who donate $50 or more.