9 Best Performing Arts Venues in Kansas City, Missouri

Background Illustration for Performing Arts

We've compiled the best of the best in Kansas City - browse our top choices for the top things to see or do during your stay.

American Heartland Theatre

The American Heartland Theatre in Crown Center offers strong local theater productions and seasonal events.

Copaken Stage

Downtown

Copaken Stage

Folly Theater

Downtown

The Folly Theater, also known as the "Grand Lady of 12th Street," stages comedy acts, ballets, operas, and theater productions.

Recommended Fodor's Video

Kansas City Repertory Theater

Kansas City Repertory Theater is a professional, not-for-profit theater company with a full season of plays, including the annual production of Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol. Tickets are $27–$50. Performances take place on two stages, the original, and the Spencer Theatre in the University of Missouri-Kansas City Performing Arts Center.

KC Jazz Hotline

The city is rightly proud of its jazz heritage, and musical pilgrims travel from afar to hear authentic Kansas City blues played live. Several venues host live performances; for information call the KC Jazz Hotline.

Lyric Theatre

Downtown

The Lyric Opera of Kansas City (kcopera.org) and the Kansas City Symphony (www.kcsymphony.org) perform at the Lyric Theatre.

Midland Theater

Downtown

The Midland Theater, listed on the National Registry of Historic Places, is Kansas City's only surviving 1920s movie palace and hosts top shows and concerts, as well as the Kansas City Symphony. The theater will be a cornerstone of the new Power & Light District, scheduled to open in October 2007.

Spencer Theatre

Spencer Theatre in the University of Missouri-Kansas City Performing Arts Center

Ticketmaster

Call Ticketmaster for tickets to major events.