Theater fans have champion in Karen Wilson

Tomorrow's actors and theater fans have a relentless champion in Karen Wilson, director of the Theatre for Youth and Outreach Program and coordinator of the Harris Art Gallery at the King Center for the Performing Arts

Theatre for Youth, which introduces students to the arts and theater through a diverse array of affordably priced programs both at the King Center as well as at schools and other venues, just completed its 20th year, 18 of which have been under Wilson's leadership.

Wilson is responsible for orchestrating everything from plays to dance performances, from interactive workshops to school assemblies or training with master teachers.

What's your background, Karen?

I was born in the magnificent country of Trinidad, full of beautiful blue oceans and great culture, and raised in Brooklyn, New York. I landed an internship with a well-known retail establishment while attending the Borough of Manhattan Community College. A great offer came about and I spent the next 10 years in the Wall Street/banking industry.

I fell in love with Florida after frequent visits when my sibling was stationed in Orlando and friends in the area, not realizing how hot it gets here in the summer.

How did you connect with the King Center?

I submitted an application when the job was posted and thanks to a dear friend, the King Center has been my home since then for the past 18 years. I am thrilled to say most of my time is spent at the King Center.

How did you get interested in theater work?

Growing up in New York, I've always had an interest in the arts. My older brother and my beloved mom's previous employer were instrumental in exposing my siblings and me to the theatre and the Broadway scene in New York.

My interest continued during my school days being involved with school productions.

I've always appreciated talented individuals, music and dance, museums and all the arts has to offer.

How many students benefit from the season shows and the summer programs?

Over 9,000 students benefited this year during the Theatre for Youth 20th anniversary season. Students in kindergarten through 12th grade, college students and senior residents benefit from the affordably priced programs, which introduce students to arts and cultural programs, many for the first time.

For the past three years, our annual summer musical theatre program has impacted over 6,000 residents and 200 students. This does not include prior year's summer programs.

Favorite youth program?

We collaborated with McNair Magnet Middle School and several community organizations, targeting youth at risk, to work with a group called ISH from the Netherlands. The students were able to bring their varying creative and artistic abilities under the guidance of ISH members to produce a show and present it on King Center stage. The Brevard community supported the program in full force.

Favorite artist who has performed at the King Center?

Sidiki Conde, a disabled dancer from West Africa. We presented him at several Brevard schools through a series of dance and drumming master classes and school assemblies, culminating with a show on King Center main stage.

We also presented Dancing Wheels, the first integrated dance company spanning over 30 years. The project incorporated about 30 local kids of all abilities performing alongside members of Dancing Wheels on the King Center main stage. This was a collaboration with Brevard Schools and Very Special Arts.

Favorite adult show at King Center?

The Jamaican Dance Ensemble, Aida and Oliver. There are many other favorite. I probably need to write a book about fond memories of each experience.

What's ahead for the summer?

We are actively gearing up for the Fourth Annual Summer Musical Theatre in partnership with Cocoa Village Playhouse when we present Swing! the dance musical which boasts 461 runs on Broadway and five Tony awards, including best musical in 2000.

We are currently accepting applications for the program. Early bird registration deadline is June 12 and is strongly encouraged.

We are looking forward with great anticipation to our work with the young people that will be registering for this awesome opportunity that will challenge and propel their interest in the arts.

Any particular show you would love to bring to the King Center?

The Lion King is on my dream list.

Hobbies?

Shopping. Cultural events, bicycling and maybe one day when I grow up, I will have the confidence when the opportunity presents itself for me to perform. Since I have no talent there, I will continue in my arts administrative capacity.

For more on Theatre for Youth, call 321-433-5718 or visit kingcenter.com.