Kids Who Care is about the arts, but it is also about creative thinking, leadership development and building self-confidence.
"I have never seen a similar company that is so invested in the lives of its students. It's not just about making them better performers, but encouraging them to excel in whatever they do in life, be it theater or anything else," says David Lanza, who grew up in the company, went to Nashville to get his degree in sound engineering and is now in constant demand in Fort Worth as a sound designer.
"First and foremost, KWC gave me my undying love for theater," says Jay Johnson, who opens on Broadway, March 21, as Greg Wilhote in Hands on a Hard Body, a new musical based on an actual endurance contest in Longview, Texas, where the last person standing with a hand on a new pickup truck wins the vehicle.
"The level of professionalism and discipline asked of the company members at such a young age perfectly prepares an aspiring theatre professional," he says. "The skill of thinking on your feet and adjusting to any situation, something I learned as a member of the touring company, is a skill most young professionals never have the chance to learn."
Albert Engel didn't go on to a theatrical career; he became an engineer with degrees from Vanderbilt University and Stanford University. But Kids Who Care was equally important to him.
"KWC Theatre training taught me many essential communication techniques," said Engel. "KWC theatre training helped build my confidence and practice those crucial communication skills."
Kids Who Care will celebrate its 25th summer in business this year. Over that time, it has awarded more than $1 million in scholarships to its students.
FYI
Kids Who Care
A performing arts organization created to encourage and empower kids of all ages to discover and fully develop their potential.
1300 Gendy St.
Fort Worth, TX 76107
817.737.5437
