Famous People, Kiwanis best friends

The Famous People Players (FPP) have a history with the Kiwanis family.

The troupe—renowned for what happens behind its entertaining skits and songs—will perform during the Closing Session of the 91st Annual Kiwanis International Convention in Montréal, Québec.

The Kiwanis/Famous People connection began in the 1990s when FPP founder Diane Dupuy sought Kiwanis’ help for her theater. After the Eastern Canada and Caribbean District Division 9 clubs donated CAN$15,000, Dupuy returned the favor by offering a performance free of charge for underprivileged children. To this day, the relationship continues.

Every spring since 1999, Toronto-area school children enjoy a Kiwanis Kids Day visit to The Famous People Players Theatre in Toronto. The event is organized by Stuart McCormack, president of the Kiwanis Club of Scarborough.

“Kids with various challenges, including disabilities and financial issues, are treated to a live performance, catered pizza lunch, and ice cream sundaes,” says Stuart. “It’s all about reaching out to children with various needs and making them happy for one day a year.

“Kids are bused from numerous inner-city schools and the Toronto Kiwanis Boys and Girls Club. More than 200 kids pack the place, sitting on the floor if they run out of chairs. Riverdale, Scarborough, and Toronto Kiwanis clubs all cooperate in the funding for this event.”

In 2002, Stuart realized Aktion Club members might also enjoy the performances. Turns out, he was correct.

“Since 2003, we have had 10 Aktion Club Days with two to three sold events each summer.

“Everyone wins with a Famous People Players performance. Both the FPP and the audience enjoy it.”

Kiwanians attending the convention will experience that for themselves this summer.