ASTEP's mission is based on one very simple concept: Art has the power to change the world. In their work in Africa, India and the US, ASTEP has seen communities unite, conflicts resolve, imagination ignite, and children believe they have the power to change their futures. They love watching cshildren get excited about Shakespeare, or exploring their emotions in a play they wrote about HIV/AIDS. This album is a very special labor of love created by the incomparable Lynne Shankel. Every performer has given freely of their gifts, and they have brought together some of the best musicians and singers in the Broadway community, including American Idol star Constantine Maroulis, Little Mermaid star Sierra Boggess, and Tony nominees Raul Esparza and Orfeh, plus many more! For more information about ASTEP visit the website: asteponline.org