Texas Center for Arts + Academics’ first in-person Gala since 2019, “The Greatest Show in Fort Worth” marked the incredibly successful return of our biggest fundraising event of the year. The evening was full of whimsy, wonder, and splendor, featuring over 120 alumni, student, and guest performers led by Gala ringmasters Jay Armstrong Johnson and Ahmad Simmons.
Thanks to our sponsors, donors, guests, and volunteers, we raised over $110,000! Those funds will directly support the amazing arts and academic programs at Texas Center for Arts + Academics.
The evening was a family affair from beginning to end. Madison Rodges, singer-songwriter out of Austin, TX and FWAFA class of 2012 alumna, was the first to take the stage providing entertainment at the VIP Reception. During the cocktail reception, guests were greeted by TeSA student circus animals while TeSA parents Mariel and Joey Garza captured the red carpet arrivals.
The show on the mainstage featured our talented musical theater and dance students, a solo performance from TeSA 5th grader Kenzie Johnson, Academy Dance Company, FWAFA alumni via video, and Children’s Choir of Texas, Singing Girls of Texas and Texas Boys Choir. The entire production was orchestrated by esteemed FWAFA alumni Jay Armstrong Johnson and Ahmad Simmons.
Last, but not least, Big City Outlaws – with front man and FWAFA alum, Keith Groh – kept everyone dancing late into the night at the after party. It truly was The Greatest Show in Fort Worth.