Kids Who Care Celebrates 35 Years with Matilda

As KWC Performing Arts celebrates its 35th anniversary, it continues shaping the community through its commitment to the performing arts, youth development, and leadership. This milestone year is highlighted by the summer production of Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical, a choice reflecting the company’s long-standing mission to empower and inspire young individuals.

“I am thankful for the community’s trust over the last 35 years,” said Deborah Jung, founder and Executive Director. “We are proud to provide a place where children can grow into not just artists, but community leaders and advocates. And with ‘Matilda,’ we remind everyone that they have the power to write their own story.”

Since its inception, KWC has cultivated a dynamic international community, beginning with its first international campers from Italy in 1989. This annual tradition has included over 970 students from Italy, Germany, Albania, Australia, China, Luxembourg, Switzerland, Latvia, Argentina, and Mexico.

Photo courtesy of Kids Who Care, Inc.

“This year, we are excited to welcome back a third sibling from an Italian family, as well as another camper whose mother was part of our initial group from Italy, underscoring the deep, generational connections we’ve built globally,” added Jung.

KWC has stood as a pillar of opportunity and creativity in Fort Worth, known for its inclusive environment where one-third of campers attend on scholarship and where diversity in every form is embraced, ensuring access and enrichment for all. The camp’s renowned KidPower Leadership program integrates arts education with leadership training, emphasizing the role of children and teenagers in shaping a positive community future.

“Our commitment to diversity and inclusion is at the heart of everything we do. We believe every child deserves a chance to express themselves creatively, which is why we work hard to make KWC as accessible as possible,” said Tracy Cliburn, Director of Community & Donor Engagement

This summer, KWC also partners with the Fort Worth Library to promote literacy. The library will be at matinee performances of “Matilda,” providing library card sign-ups and KWC will host book giveaways. This initiative underscores the importance of reading and aligns with Matilda’s story of empowerment through knowledge.

“One of Matilda’s most powerful messages is about the importance of reading and the ability to author your own story,” added Sydnie Roy, Education Director and portraying Miss Honey in the show. “Aligning with the Fort Worth Library allows us to bring this message to life off the stage, encouraging children and families to embrace reading as a gateway to their own adventures!”

Performance Details:

• Date: August 2- 4
• Time: 2 PM & 7:30 PM
• Location: W.E. Scott Theatre @ Arts Fort Worth, 1300 Gendy St, Fort Worth, TX 76107
• Tickets: Available at www.kwcperform.org

For more information about KWC Performing Arts and to support our scholarship or leadership initiatives, please visit www.kwcperform.org or contact us at 817.737.5437

About KWC Performing Arts Founded in 1989 by Deborah Jung, KWC has dedicated itself to empowering youth through performing arts and leadership. Celebrating its 35th anniversary, the organization remains at the forefront of arts education, nurturing performing talents on stage and off, leadership, and community engagement.

Roald Dahl’s Matilda The Musical is presented through a special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI).