theater

Hoping to get relief from increasingly astronomical licensing fees, the professional theater company in Rolla is hoping a new work based on a classic character will attract an audience, be financially sustainable and lead to great performances.

The play, which starred Sadie Sink of “Stranger Things” during its Broadway run, centers on a group of high schoolers as they navigate notions of gender and power during the #MeToo movement. As they study Arthur Miller’s “The Crucible” in English class, the students consider how the play resonates in their own lives. The KC Rep’s production runs through Oct. 25.

The groundbreaking ceremony on Wednesday marks a long anticipated turning point for the conservatory. The performing arts center expansion will include state-of-the-art theater space and equipment, two dance rehearsal rooms and expansive music rehearsal and performance spaces.

The Leawood, Kansas-based company intends to work with established and emerging filmmakers who are able to secure full financing for their own films, or who already have completed films in hand.

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.

Whether you’re jonesing to take some improv classes, hop on the open mic, or just catch a weekend show, Kansas City's clubs and theaters offer plenty of ways to flex your funny bone.

Screenland Armour Theatre in North Kansas City recently installed film projectors that allow it to show recent releases like "Sinners" and classics like "Vertigo" on 70 mm, making it the only theater in the region to specialize in that format. Owner Adam Roberts hopes the investment will give younger film fans the opportunity to see movies the way they were intended.

Gary Neal Johnson is retiring from his nearly 25-year run as Ebenezer Scrooge in the Kansas City Repertory Theatre’s production of “A Christmas Carol.” He Joined KCUR’s Up To Date for an installment of our series “5 Questions,” and to discuss hanging up his hat after acting in the play for 40 years.

After the holiday programs are over, Kansas City theaters will be bringing in national Broadway shows, putting on original dramatic works, and showcasing an array of kids programs and experimental new shows. We put together a guide to the must-see theater around the metro.

Folly Theater staff have spent the week cleaning up after a break in left the 125-year-old venue badly damaged. After canceling last weekend's show, the Folly plans to reopen November 1.

The Warwick on Main Street suffered a multi-alarm fire in February 2024 that burned across three floors and forced the cast and crew to relocate their show last-minute. Now, the building has been restored, and the Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre is back with its first performances since.

Whether you're looking for an Oscar-worthy film or a good series to stream at home, Up To Date's film critics dish on what's worth your time. Find out what Academy nominations they think deserve more attention and what streaming series has them hooked.