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Youth Performer & Participant Registration
Be the Voice. Share Your Talent. Lead the Future.
The Military Child World Expo 2026 is proud to feature military-connected youth as performers, speakers, and leaders. Whether you’re showcasing your talent on stage, speaking at a summit, or leading a workshop, this is your platform to shine, connect, and inspire.
Opportunities By Event Day
1 /April 18, 2026 - Carrying the Torch of Care Caregivers Breakfast (Army Navy Country Club, Arlington, Virginia)
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National Anthem or Armed Forces Medley
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Youth Welcome Speech (5 minutes)
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Spoken word or cultural tribute honoring caregivers
2 / April 25, 2026 - The Military Child World Expo 2026 Celebrating America's 250 "Torchbearers of America's Future (Hyatt Regency Crystal City, Arlington, Virginia)
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Main Stage music, dance, and cultural showcases
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Torchbearers Youth Readiness Summit: panels, workshops, and youth speakers
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Pavilion spotlights (poetry, storytelling, art presentations)
All activities in Independence B Center, the Torchbearers Promise Pavilion, are youth-led, youth-voiced, and youth-centered.
3 / April 26, 2026 - The Military Child World Expo 2026 Celebrating America's 250 Torchbearers Showcase (Fashion Centre at Pentagon City, Arlington, Virginia)
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Closing celebration performances
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Youth-led finale act (song, pledge, or dramatic collaboration)
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Cultural heritage presentations representing global youth voices
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Single or Group performances
Who Can Register
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Ages 8+ is for the Torchbearers Show Case Only
(individuals or groups up to 12 participants)
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Ages 8-23 is for the Military Child World Expo
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Military-connected youth worldwide
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Open to performers, cultural presenters, speakers, panelists, workshop leaders, and emcees
What's Included
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Youth Badge + 1 Guardian Badge (additional adults register separately)
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Professional stage & technical support (lighting, sound, crew)
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Bio & photo featured in the official Expo program & website
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Meal voucher for Expo Day & Showcase participants
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Digital copy of performance/presentation
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Certificate of Participation signed by MCWE 2026 leadership
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Legacy placement in the Moment Capsule Archive for America’s 250th anniversary
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Eligibility for the Torch of Care Youth Artist Spotlight Award
Safety & Accessibility
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All youth must be accompanied by a registered guardian/chaperone.
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Emergency and medical/allergy details required during registration.
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MCWE 2026 follows strict venue safety and insurance protocols.
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Performers of all abilities and backgrounds are welcome; accommodations are available.
Requirements
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Submit audition video, sample presentation, or recommendation letter
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Provide headshot/photo for program listing
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Attend assigned rehearsal/orientation time
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Follow family-friendly attire & MCWE Code of Conduct
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Parent/guardian consent required
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Registration deadline: March 1, 2026
Selection Process
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All submissions are reviewed by MCWE 2026 staff.
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Accepted youth will be assigned performance or presentation time slots.
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Parents/guardians will be notified by email with confirmation and rehearsal schedule.
Travel & Lodging
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Special hotel blocks are available for families and school groups.
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Travel scholarships may be available through select partners (inquire during registration).
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Transportation to/from venues is the responsibility of participants.
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Do I have to stay with my child?
Yes. All youth must be accompanied by a registered guardian or school-designated
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Will meals be provided?
Meal vouchers are provided for youth performers on Expo Day & Torchbearers Showcase
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Is transportation provided?
No. Families and groups are responsible for their own travel to and from venues.
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What if my child has special needs?
MCWE provides reasonable accommodations for accessibility, medical, and language needs. Please indicate these during registration.
How To Register
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Download the Youth Performer Registration Form (PDF) OR complete the online registration form.
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Prepare your audition video, sample script, or workshop outline.
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Provide a headshot for program listing.
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Submit by March 1, 2026 to performance@themilitarychildworldexpo.com.
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Receive confirmation and rehearsal details from our Youth Performance Coordinator.
Ready to Perform? Apply Now!
Youth Voices Wanted – Deadline March 1, 2026
Download Registration Form (PDF) Apply Online