Families in Jarrell ISD looking for a creative and confidence-building summer activity now have a new opportunity to mark on their calendars. Jarrell ISD has officially announced that this year’s summer theater camp production will be Matilda The Musical, Jr., bringing together students from elementary through high school for a week of performance, teamwork and storytelling.

The 2026 summer camp will run June 8-12 at Jarrell High School, culminating in a public performance on Friday, June 12. Organizers say the program is designed not only to strengthen theater skills, but also to encourage students to step outside their comfort zones while building friendships and community connections.

With the camp’s theme encouraging students to “Be a Little Bit Brave,” the production reflects a message many families in the fast-growing Jarrell community can relate to — finding confidence, creativity and belonging through shared experiences.

Registration and Audition Deadline Set for May 14

Students interested in participating must complete registration by May 14. Those hoping to be considered for lead roles in Matilda The Musical, Jr. must also submit audition videos by the same deadline.

Questions about the camp or auditions can be directed to director Tara Granberry at tara.granberry@jarrellisd.org.

Additional registration and camp information is available through the official program page found HERE.

Summer Theater Programs Continue Growing in Jarrell ISD

As Jarrell continues to expand, school and community arts programs have become an increasingly important outlet for students and families seeking connection beyond academics and athletics.

Programs like Matilda The Musical, Jr. give students opportunities to develop public speaking, collaboration and leadership skills while also introducing younger children to the performing arts in an encouraging environment.

The camp offers separate schedules tailored by age group:

• Grades 6-12: Noon to 8 p.m.
• Grades 2-5: 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Camp pricing includes meals, snacks and commemorative T-shirts depending on grade level participation:

• Grades 6-12: $60 per student, including dinner each day and a T-shirt
• Grades 2-5: $50 per student, including snacks each day and a T-shirt

A Story That Continues to Inspire Young Performers

Based on the beloved Roald Dahl story, Matilda The Musical, Jr. has become one of the most popular youth theater productions in schools and community programs across the country. Known for its themes of courage, intelligence and standing up for others, the musical gives students opportunities for large ensemble performances as well as featured roles.

For many local students, summer productions like this become more than just a camp. They often serve as a first introduction to performing on stage, building confidence in front of peers and discovering talents that continue into high school and beyond.

The weeklong production also gives families another opportunity to gather and celebrate student achievement before the next school year begins.

What Happens Next

Families interested in enrolling students in the Jarrell ISD summer theater camp should complete registration and audition submissions before the May 14 deadline. Rehearsals begin June 8 at Jarrell High School, with the final performance scheduled for Friday, June 12.

As Jarrell’s arts programs continue to grow alongside the community itself, events like Matilda The Musical, Jr. reflect the increasing investment in opportunities that help students feel connected, creative and seen.

Residents can stay tuned to My Neighborhood News for more Jarrell ISD updates, local student programs and community events throughout the summer.

By Tiffany Krenek, My Neighborhood News 

Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.