Dallas Fort Worth Nonprofit Business Journal

Category: Arts

  • Levitt Arlington expands Youth Spotlight program

    Levitt Arlington expands Youth Spotlight program

    The Levitt Pavilion’s signature free concert series will once again shine a light on the next generation of performers, as the Levitt Youth Spotlight returns for its third season in 2026 with expanded opportunities for young artists. The program is unique to the downtown Arlington live music destination and remains the only youth-focused initiative of its kind across the national Levitt network of performance venues.

    This year’s Spotlight program will feature more performers, expanding beyond Friday nights to include select Saturday concerts. Youth Spotlight artists perform in the same or a complementary genre as the evening’s headline and opening act, offering an elevated concert experience for audiences while giving young performers a meaningful connection to the mainstage acts.

    The first Youth Spotlight performers will debut during opening weekend April 24-25, ahead of headliners Uncle Lucius (Austin-based alt rock and Americana) and Jay Perez (Tejano hitmaker). Arlington-based singers Mason Engler, 18 and Natalia Vega, 9, will kick off the season, representing Young Stars & Guitars and Destiny Studio, respectively.

    Engler will perform during Friday’s Americana and country evening, while Vega’s set will feature a country selection along with a Spanish-language rendition of “Oh Susana,” reflecting the genre-spanning range of the Levitt’s annual concert calendar.

    Texas Trust Credit Union fuels expansion

    The 2026 program is made possible through support from Texas Trust Credit Union, which joins the program as its inaugural presenting sponsor.

    “We’re thrilled to celebrate this milestone expansion of the Youth Spotlight program with the support of Texas Trust, an organization that consistently demonstrates its commitment to community,” said Letatia Teykl, executive director of Levitt Pavilion Arlington. “This program reflects our shared commitment to community, as well as the Levitt’s continued focus on innovation and support for performing arts and artists. It gives young artists a chance to grow, connect with new audiences and gain real-world experience—and you never know, someone in the crowd might one day say, ‘I saw them when they were just a kid at the Levitt.’”

    Jim Minge, CEO of Texas Trust stated, “At Texas Trust, we believe in investing in the bright futures of our local youth and the vibrant culture of the communities we serve. The Levitt Youth Spotlight is a one-of-a-kind platform that gives young performers more than just a stage—it gives them the professional experience and confidence to chase their dreams. We are honored to fuel the expansion of this program and can’t wait to see these talented young artists shine in downtown Arlington this season.”

    More about the program: Levitt Youth Spotlight provides young performers from Arlington, Mansfield, and now other areas of DFW with an opportunity to experience the full arc of a live music engagement—from booking, contract execution, and sound checks to performing on a professional stage. Participants, ages 6-22, are recommended by local music studios and school music teachers and selected through a submission process. Once chosen, artists prepare for and perform a live set ahead of the evening’s opening act.

    “It’s an A-to-Z professional experience, which can be hard to come by for a young performer,” said Sarah Duke, owner of Destiny Studio, a program partner. “We were delighted when the Levitt first approached us about collaborating on this program.”

    In addition to performing, Youth Spotlight artists receive a stipend and a professionally livestreamed recording of their performance, which can be used to promote future opportunities.

    Last season, approximately 17 artists ages 10-20 participated in the program, in genres including country, rock, pop and more. With this year’s expansion, that number is expected to double.

    Community partners for the Youth Spotlight program include: Destiny Studio, Cook Children’s Patient Ambassadors, and Young Stars and Guitars. This year, the program will expand to include outreach to the fine arts programs at Arlington and Mansfield school districts.  

    The Youth Spotlight program is part of Levitt Arlington’s 2026 concert season, which launches April 24 and features a genre diverse lineup of free live music performances through the spring, summer and fall. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets. Paid concessions are available from the Levitt’s food truck fleet. The Levitt is located at 100 W Abram across from City Hall. For more information about Youth Spotlight, including the artist submission process, visit levittpavilionarlington.org/get-involved/perform. For the 2026 Levitt concert schedule, visit  levittarlington.org.

    Source: Press release

  • Cliburn International Competition for Young Pianists secures 20-year partners

    Cliburn International Competition for Young Pianists secures 20-year partners

    The Cliburn announced a 20-year partnership with Southern Methodist University (SMU) and the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, covering the next five editions of the Cliburn International Competition for Young Pianists (formerly known as the Cliburn International Junior Piano Competition and Festival). The next edition of the Cliburn International Competition for Young Pianists takes place June 10–19, 2027, in Dallas, Texas. The competition will include an in-residence fellowship program on the campus of SMU, consisting of masterclasses, workshops, artist conversations, performance opportunities, and other scheduled activities.

    “As the Cliburn continues to encourage the futures of the amazing young artists who participate in the Cliburn International Competition for Young Pianists, we must also invest in the future of the communities that make events like this possible,” said Jacques Marquis, president and CEO of the Cliburn. “By cementing the partnership with SMU and the Dallas Symphony Orchestra—true pillars of the Dallas artistic community—for the next 20 years, we are telling the people of Dallas that the Cliburn is here, and that we are committed to the development of the next generation of great artists.”

    In addition, the Cliburn announced renewed partnerships for the next 20 years with the Nasher Sculpture Center and NorthPark Center, as well as KERA and WRR.

    Source: Press release

  • From the Top finds new home with KERA

    From the Top finds new home with KERA

    America’s largest national platform celebrating young classically trained musicians is being acquired by the North Texas public media station.

    KERA, North Texas’ public media station, and From the Top, the nonprofit and radio broadcast program dedicated to celebrating young classical musicians, are thrilled to announce that From the Top will become part of KERA in 2026.

    “It’s a real honor that From the Top is joining KERA as part of our ongoing growth and innovation strategy,” says Nico Leone, President & CEO of KERA. “Our missions are so aligned — we, too, are committed to supporting and celebrating young classical musicians here in North Texas and beyond through our many services. More than anything, we want From the Top listeners, alumni and fans to know that we are committed to sustaining and expanding this shared mission, and you can expect the same incredible content From the Top has produced for years.”

    “For decades, From the Top has amplified young musicians across the country through its roots in Boston, MA,” says Gretchen Nielsen, Executive Director of From the Top. “We’re very proud of our legacy, and now — as we look to the future — we are excited to bring our mission to a homebase in North Texas with its incredible arts community.”

    From the Top recently celebrated 25 years of mission-driven programming. The radio program, carried on nearly 200 stations nationwide, has evolved into an acclaimed platform for today’s young classical musicians. In addition to the radio broadcast, each year From the Top helps launch the careers of young musicians through its fellowship programs, educational programs and awards. In 2024, From the Top began searching for a new foundational home and approached KERA with the opportunity.

    “We see a value in being rooted in a thriving local community with the support of a sustainable and respected public media station,” says Nielsen. “We sought out KERA given their legacy in the public media community and the trust they have from North
    Texas. We see so much opportunity ahead and we’re very excited to be moving forward with them as partners and peers.”

    For KERA, From the Top is a perfect alignment with its commitment to supporting the arts and classical music. In 2023, KERA welcomed classical music station WRR 101.1 FM to its portfolio of services, joining a robust suite of arts services including KXT 91.7 FM, arts reporting from KERA Arts and arts programming on KERA TV. KERA is also the home of “Think” with Krys Boyd, a nationally syndicated radio program and podcast.

    “KERA has been a champion of the arts since its earliest days,” says Leone. “It is such a natural fit to welcome From the Top and help foster and support the next generation of young musicians.”

    From the Top will officially join KERA in May of 2026 and continue to be distributed by NPR. While the national nonprofit will be based in North Texas, From the Top’s many programming offerings — radio broadcast, digital offerings, fellowship program — will continue to connect with and celebrate young musicians across the country. Additionally, From the Top will help expand KERA’s work in education and collaborations with local arts organizations.

    KERA’s acquisition of From the Top also comes at an exciting time in the public media station’s history. In March, KERA will break ground on a community-centric headquarters, located on the Katy Trail. The new facilities for the 65-year-old organization will provide performance space, recording studios and more — not just for KERA and From the Top team members, but the North Texas community at large. KERA is also planning to launch a local daily news program on KERA News in the spring.

    From the Top can be heard Saturdays at 12 p.m. on WRR 101.1 FM. For more information about From the Top, visit www.fromthetop.org. For more information about KERA, visit www.kera.org. For media inquiries, reach out to media@kera.org.

    Source: Press release

  • The Welman Project secures new location

    The Welman Project secures new location

    The Welman Project announced they are moving to the iconic Kimbell Milling Company building on South Main. As an organization dedicated to reuse and reimagining, the opportunity to transform this piece of Fort Worth’s history is a privilege that aligns perfectly with their mission.

    They can’t wait to create a vibrant hub for arts, education, and sustainability in the Near Southside, with five times the space to be able to better serve the community!

    Securing this space is a pivotal first step in their expansion, and they’re counting on continued community support to see it through. They look forward to partnering with the community to build the inclusive, creative space our city deserves.

    The Welman Project sends a big thank you to everyone who’s gotten them this far, especially the building owner, local foundation support, and Grant Huff and Tracy Cliburn at Formation Real Estate.

    Source: LinkedIn

  • Fort Worth Opera launches multi-year fundraising campaign, Match the Momentum 

    Fort Worth Opera launches multi-year fundraising campaign, Match the Momentum 

    To mark the company’s landmark 80th anniversary season, Fort Worth Opera announced the launch of a four-year fundraising campaign intended to raise one million dollars and unlock new possibilities for opera in Fort Worth. 

    “For eight decades, Fort Worth Opera has been a cornerstone of the arts in North Texas—a creative force uniting generations through music and storytelling,” said Angela Turner Wilson. “This campaign is a call to action—to invest in the company’s next 80 years and ensure opera continues to inspire, educate, and reflect the community it serves.”

    September 2025 marks Phase One of this broader, four-year initiative. Titled Match the Momentum, this opening phase of the campaign aims to raise $125,000 in new and increased contributions—doubled to $250,000 through a generous matching challenge from several devoted local patrons of the arts. 

    Match the Momentum’s first $80,000 gift has already been committed, putting the campaign significantly toward its initial goal.

    Wilson emphasizes that Match the Momentum is a chance for the community to rally together and claim ownership of the company’s future: “This isn’t just Fort Worth Opera’s moment—it’s Fort Worth’s. Every dollar given, and every story shared, helps ensure the next generation can fall in love with opera in their own neighborhoods, in their own schools, and on their own terms.”

    Match the Momentum isn’t just about numbers; it’s about enriching the cultural lives of Fort Worth residents through the power of opera. Contributions to the campaign directly support:

    • Mainstage productions that feature beloved classics and cutting-edge new works, thrilling audiences at Bass Performance Hall and unique venues across Fort Worth.
    • New opera commissions and collaborations that amplify voices throughout our community and tell stories rooted in Fort Worth’s rich cultural heritage.
    • Showcasing emerging talent from across the U.S. and introducing the next generation of operatic stars to our city.
    • Innovative educational initiatives serving K–12 students across Fort Worth ISD and North Texas through curriculum-aligned programming and interactive, immersive performances.
    • Community-based programs in unexpected venues that reflect the city’s vibrant spirit and artistic energy—from libraries and museums to cultural centers and civic spaces.

    Every gift is matched dollar-for-dollar. A $100 donation becomes $200 in support of music education, access, and artistry. A $1,000 gift becomes $2,000—empowering innovation onstage and strengthening connections within our community offstage.

    The campaign embodies the company’s renewed commitment to innovation, civic pride, and the conviction that opera is a living, breathing art form—one that reflects our shared humanity and has the power to unite us all. From classrooms to concert halls, Fort Worth Opera is creating meaningful opportunities for audiences of all ages to experience the transformative joy of classical music.

    Throughout its 2025–26 season, Fort Worth Opera will amplify the campaign through digital storytelling, donor spotlights, and collaborative programming. As the city celebrates eight decades as the oldest continuously operating opera company in Texas, Match the Momentum invites residents to join in supporting an art form that reflects their voices and their dreams—along with the stories that unite us all.

    “Opera is evolving, just like Fort Worth,” says Polenz. “And that evolution thrives when our community steps forward, when we say yes to creativity, and yes to a future where the arts remain an essential part of who we are.”

    To make a gift or learn more about the campaign, visit fwopera.org/match-the-momentum or contact Ryan Lathan, Director of Development, at 817.288.1225 or ryan@fwopera.org.

    Source: press release

  • TACA Board names new board chair and members

    TACA Board names new board chair and members

    The Board of Directors of TACA has elected Gabrielle Kurlander as Chair-Elect. Currently serving as TACA’s Vice Chair, Finance/Treasurer, Gabrielle brings significant nonprofit leadership experience, including her 34-year tenure as Founder, President & CEO of the All Stars Project.

    Her extensive experience as a theatre director, producer and performer, along with her proven track record in organizational strategy, growth and fundraising will be instrumental as she steps into this new leadership role at TACA.  Gabrielle will be the first ‘creative’ in TACA’s history to serve in the role of Board Chair. She will officially assume the role in June 2026, at the start of TACA’s 2026–2027 fiscal year.

    They also welcomed eight new members to the TACA Board of Directors: Larry Angelilli, Vince Bratton, Brent English, Marion Flores, Lola Lott, Kelly Perez, Whitney Strauss, and Jennifer Taylor. Each brings a wealth of experience and leadership from across the arts and nonprofit sectors, along with a deep commitment to strengthening and supporting the Dallas arts community.

    Source: press release

  • The Dallas Symphony Orchestra League receives League of American Orchestra’s award

    The Dallas Symphony Orchestra League receives League of American Orchestra’s award

    Dixey Arterburn, 2024-2025 president of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra League, announced the Dallas Symphony Orchestra League has been selected to receive a League of American Orchestra’s Gold Award of Excellence for the DSOL’s 2024 Savor the Symphony fundraiser, chaired by Nikki Beneke and Joanie Stephens. Nancy Labadie was 2023-2024 president. The Gold Award of Excellence recognizes best-in-class programs or initiatives that have made a significant impact on their orchestras.

    The League of American Orchestras (LAO) champions the vitality of music and the orchestral experience, supports the orchestra community, and leads change boldly. The only national organization dedicated to orchestras and their communities, the League supports the field through advocacy, research, convenings, leadership development, artistic programs, and grants.

    “We’re honored and thrilled to be named a Gold Award of Excellence recipient,” Dixey said. “Our Savor the Symphony is an important fundraiser that brings together supporters in a lovely setting celebrating everything food and wine, plus offering guests an overview of the League and our commitment to the Dallas Symphony Orchestra.”

    Nikki said, “We are so excited to receive the LAO Gold Award of Excellence. In 2024, we reimagined Savor the Symphony with new branding and a new program and reached a larger corporate and individual donor audience. Updating the event allowed us to incorporate the Magic of Music through our incredible magician and illusionist and performances by alumni involved in the Dallas Symphony Orchestra’s education and outreach programs. The performances showcased how music changes lives for children in our community. Savor the Symphony is a unique event that focuses on a first-class evening where patrons enjoy gourmet offerings paired with lovely wines, a live and silent auction, and featured performances.”

    Proceeds from the event benefit the Dallas Symphony Association and its education and outreach programs including:

    • Young Strings, Kim Noltemy Young Musicians and the Cecil and Ida Green Youth Concert Series impact over 20,000 students and are vital as they open doors to a brighter future and more opportunities.

    • MyDSO Concerts are specially designed for children and adults on the autism spectrum and with developmental disabilities, and their families, friends and caregivers.          

    Dallas Symphony Orchestra League’s (DSOL’s) mission is to support the Dallas Symphony Orchestra Community Outreach and Education Programs opening doors to a brighter future for the children in our community. The programs include: Young Strings, Kim Noltemy Young Musicians, Cecil and Ida Green Youth Concert Series, DSO on the Go (Community Concerts and Performances), and My DSO Concerts for children and adults on the autism spectrum. The DSOL has raised over $22 million to support these programs. 

    source: Press release

  • Lyric Stage announced 16th Annual Schmidt and Jones Awards

    Lyric Stage presented the 16th annual Schmidt & Jones Awards on May 6 at Moody Performance Hall with students giving riveting performances.

    Scott Guenther, Lyric Stage’s managing and co-artistic director, said, “Developed in 2010, this award is named after renowned composer Harvey Schmidt and lyricist Tom Jones to honor excellence in high school musical theatre across Dallas-Fort Worth. These students are exceptionally talented.” 

    The winners:

    Best Actor in Lead Role

    Grapevine High School, Sweeney Todd – Maxwell Nelson as Sweeney Todd 

    Best Actress in a Lead Role 

    Grapevine High School, Sweeney Todd – Roslyn Ackermann as Mrs. Lovett

    Supporting Actor 

    Fort Worth Academy of Fine Arts, The Addams Family – Matthew Grand as Fester Addams

    Supporting Actress 

    Grapevine Faith Christian School, Newsies – Sienna Dudding as Medda Larkin

    Actor in a Minor Role

    Fort Worth Academy of Fine Arts, The Addams Family – Brett Martin as Lurch 

    Actress in a Minor Role 

    Fort Worth Academy of Fine Arts, The Addams Family – Kimora Caldwell as Grandma Addams 

    Male Ensemble Performer

    Lakeview Centennial High School, Little Shop – Manny Gonzalez as Multiple Characters

    Female Ensemble Performer 

    Liberty Christian School, Oliver – Avery Graham as Rose Seller, Orphan, Dancer

    Best Stage Manager

    Denton Guyer High School – Hadestown – Emmerson Biddick

    Best Choreography

    Liberty Christian School – Oliver – Presley Anderson & Gigi Plisga

    Best Lighting Design

    Fort Worth Academy of Fine Arts, The Addams Family – Olivia Assay, Anissa Campos

    Parish Episcopal School, Chicago – Cooper Hardeman

    Best Scenic Design

    Coppell High School, Matilda – Ashrrita Sathish, Tsering Sherpa

    Best Costume Design

    Cedar Hill High School, Something Rotten – Morgan Akins, Nyilah McDaniel, Jaden Devezin

    Best Orchestra

    Rockwall Heath High School, Les Miserables

    Best Ensemble

    Denton Guyer High School – Hadestown

    Best Show

    Grapevine High School, Sweeney Todd

    A panel of judges, consisting of theatre educators and professional theatre artists, viewed dozens of productions of the accepted applicants from schools in Dallas, Tarrant and Collin counties. The panel made nominations and then voted to determine winners. The directors of participating schools also received written production evaluations.

    The judging panel, adjudicating and awards are organized and led by the director of the Schmidt and Jones Awards, Amy Stevenson, who is well-known in Dallas-Fort Worth as both an artist and educator. 

    source: press release

  • Dallas Children’s Theater kicks off $5M capacity campaign with $1M gift

    Dallas Children’s Theater kicks off $5M capacity campaign with $1M gift

    Dallas Children’s Theater (DCT), a professional theater in North Texas solely focused on children and families, announced the launch of its Extraordinary Campaign, with a goal of raising $5 million over the next five years to introduce the transformational experience of theater to the next generation.

    The campaign is led by an inspiring $1,000,000 gift from the March Family Foundation, underscoring the foundation’s belief in the power of theater to transform young lives and solidifying DCT’s position as a cornerstone of Dallas’ vibrant arts community.

    DCT’s Extraordinary Campaign aims to expand offerings in both performance and education defined by a collaboration of DCT staff, trustees, families, friends, partners, donors and artists. Funds raised through this campaign will serve as the foundation for DCT’s new initiatives, which include investments in innovative technology, increasing accessibility for children of all backgrounds, and expanding opportunities for apprenticeships and residences. Together, these initiatives ensure more than 95,000 children and families annually can experience the magic of live theater.

    “DCT has set the standard for creativity, innovation, and excellence in theater for young audiences,” said Carol March of the March Family Foundation. “As advocates for arts and education, we are deeply inspired by DCT’s commitment to enriching the lives of children across North Texas. This gift reflects our shared belief in the enduring impact of live theater to educate, entertain, and build connections that strengthen our community.”

    The March Family Foundation, led by Dallas philanthropists Carol and Kevin March, has a longstanding relationship with DCT, including previous support for DCT to pay off the mortgage on its home, the Rosewood Center for Family Arts. The March family also worked with DCT to build a structured program for ongoing capital maintenance and improvements.

    “We are deeply honored and grateful to the March Family Foundation for this remarkable investment in the future of Dallas Children’s Theater,” said Samantha Turner, DCT’s Executive Director. “Their unwavering support strengthens our ability to inspire the next generation through the transformative power of theater. Carol and Kevin March’s extraordinary commitment is a beacon, encouraging others to join us in supporting the critically important work of helping children look up from their screens and engage with the world through live theater.”

    source: press release

  • Texas Ballet Theater’s Rehearsal Director to step down after 30 years

    Texas Ballet Theater’s Rehearsal Director to step down after 30 years

    Principal Rehearsal Director Anna Donovan of Texas Ballet Theater (TBT) has announced that she will be stepping down from her role at the end of the season. Donovan has been in North Texas since joining Ballet Dallas in 1991.

    A native of Ireland, Donovan’s dance career began at age 10 when she won a scholarship to train at the Royal Ballet School in England. From there, she continued her training in Surrey, England, at Elmhurst Ballet School. After graduating, she performed in continental Europe for four years before joining the Irish National Ballet (INB) in 1973 where she was rapidly promoted to Principal Dancer. After 17 years with INB, Donovan joined the staff of Ballet Dallas in 1991, serving as Principal Ballet Mistress and Repetiteur and instructor for the Dallas Conservatory of Ballet. She taught ballet at Dallas’s Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts for a number of years and is included in The Who’s Who of Teachers in America 2000, 2001, and 2005. Donovan officially joined the artistic staff at TBT as Principal Ballet Master in 2000.

    Donovan said, “I have made the decision to step aside from my current position as Principal Rehearsal Director at the end of this 2024-2025 season. I am so grateful to those Artistic Directors who have given me the opportunity to learn and grow in this position, led by Ben Houk, Bruce Marks, Bruce Simpson, Ben Stevenson, and Tim O’Keefe. It has been quite a journey, and through all of you I have experienced the best. And, to all the dancers that I have had the privilege of working with, thank you for the chance to be a small part of your careers. I will look forward to teaching in the DFW area as well as at the TBT schools in Dallas. Thank you for 25 extraordinary years.”

    Donovan will continue in her current role through the spring and summer, including teaching in TBT’s 2025 Summer Intensive.

    Artistic Director Tim O’Keefe said, “I’ve worked with Anna since I arrived at TBT in 2002. She is a phenomenal teacher, coach, and stager, and an integral part of the artistic team. I appreciate her artistic sensibility, which has guided not only me but the company for these many years.”

    source; press release