Julie Denesha
Arts ReporterAs KCUR’s arts reporter, I use words, sounds and images to take readers on a journey behind the scenes and into the creative process. I want to introduce listeners to the local creators who enrich our thriving arts communities. I hope to strengthen the Kansas City scene and encourage a deeper appreciation for the arts. Contact me at julie@kcur.org.
-
515 Music Hub organizers wanted to create a space that prioritizes listening, "as opposed to people talking over musicians as they eat or drink." The new venture is part of a $1.6 million city initiative to fill empty storefronts and entertain international visitors. -
An airport spokesperson said the expected number of travelers rivals major holiday travel days like Thanksgiving weekend. Netherlands and Tunisia played on Thursday, while Algeria and Austria will have their final group-stage match Saturday. Hotel bookings have also trended upward since the tournament started. -
One of Kansas City's most popular jazz venues, Green Lady Lounge, is temporarily closed after a fire in a rooftop air conditioning unit Sunday. The venue is expected to be open in time for World Cup visitors. -
The first woman to chair the Kansas City Art Institute’s ceramics program retired this month. Cary Esser overhauled the department’s curriculum, modernized studio facilities and supported a generation of student artists. -
City officials, community members and business owners celebrated the grand opening of a nearly yearlong project to transform the corridor into a more walkable public space. It’s part of a $400 million push to revitalize the historic neighborhood. -
Kansas City’s six World Cup matches are among dozens seeing significant resale ticket prices drops in the last month. One local reseller attributes the losses to fan frustration with FIFA’s new confusing “dynamic pricing” system and more matches this year than for previous tournaments. -
When Lyric Opera of Kansas City needed a dog to play a character in their new production of “Of Mice and Men," eight canines and their owners showed up to audition. The lucky dog makes his big debut this weekend. -
A special program is bringing empty Kansas City storefronts back to life by placing entrepreneurs in prime downtown spaces to show off for an influx of international visitors. City leaders hope the program leads to long-term opportunities for small businesses and building owners. -
An interactive exhibit in a Crossroads art gallery aims to astonish earthly and extraterrestrial visitors alike. Wichita, Kansas, artists and spouses Mike Miller and Meghan Miller have created inventive ways to make art from found and salvaged objects. -
The Crossroads eatery was inspired by the lively spirit of the casual drinking establishments in Japan known as izakayas. The restaurant opened in July 2025.
