URBANA, Ill. (Chambana Today) — A University of Illinois student composer and the University’s Wind Ensemble are bringing a young family’s story to life on stage — all in celebration of the unbreakable bond between two sisters.

On Thursday, Oct. 10 at 7:30 p.m., the Krannert Center for the Performing Arts’ Great Hall will host a very special world premiere: an original piece of music inspired by a story written and illustrated by Presley, age 5, and her older sister Kinley, age 8, who was diagnosed with Sanfilippo Syndrome — a rare and terminal neurodegenerative disease often referred to as “childhood Alzheimer’s.”

The performance is part of a collaboration between the Sing Me a Story Foundation and the University of Illinois Wind Ensemble, made possible by a unique composition program created by UI alum and current MBA student, Autumn, who also works with the nonprofit.

While Kinley is now nonverbal due to her condition, Presley stepped in to help tell their story — a lighthearted and imaginative tale of their family’s adventure to find pineapples for homemade pizza night. The sisters worked together to illustrate the story, which was then set to music by a student composer at Illinois.

The result is a deeply personal work that will debut in front of an audience of hundreds, including Kinley, Presley, and their family.

“This collaboration embodies everything Sing Me a Story stands for — turning children’s voices and creativity into songs that lift spirits and inspire communities,” said Autumn. “As a student and alum, it’s especially meaningful to help bring this story to life right here at the University of Illinois.”

The event is open to the public. For those unable to attend, Sing Me a Story will share a digital recording of the performance at a later date. Learn more about the foundation at www.singmeastory.org