theater

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.

Nathan Louis Jackson’s untimely death at the age of 44 left a void in Kansas City theater. A new Kansas City Repertory Theatre production of his play “Broke-ology” could prove the writer's power to inspire audiences hasn’t gone away.

Popcorn and movie theaters are inseparable today. But a century ago, cinemas actually banned the beloved treat for being cheap and messy. A Kansas City saleswoman named Julia Braden became one of the first popcorn vendors to talk her way inside the lobby — and built a concession empire in the middle of the Great Depression.

"Ebenezer Scrooge’s Big KC MO Christmas Show” imagines that Scrooge left London and moved to Kansas City to seek his fortune. It’s a new spin on Charles Dickens’ classic Christmas tale of redemption.

This year, Kansas Citians have several ways to enjoy "A Christmas Carol," Charles Dickens' holiday story of redemption, including a musical and modern take. Three Scrooges in Kansas City's live-theater adaptations spoke with KCUR's Up To Date about getting into character and the lessons they take away from the tale.

There's plenty of song and celebration this season with holiday concerts and shows around Kansas City.

Lindsey Rood-Clifford is the president and CEO of Starlight Theatre in Kansas City's Swope Park. She caught up with KCUR's Steve Kraske as part of Up To Date's new series "5 Questions."

Independence's Twin Drive-In, owned by the B&B Theatres chain, is shutting down after its landlord increased its rent by 350%. Its absence will leave just one drive-in movie theater in the Kansas City region.

Angela Wildflower grew up in Kansas City, Kansas, and has since gone on to perform in Broadway productions and popular television series. She plays the iconic jazz singer in "Lady Day at Emerson's Bar and Grill," which runs through Oct. 27 at the Kansas City Repertory Theatre.

There’s a whole lot of history packed into the little town of Weston, Missouri. Just a 45-minute drive north of Kansas City, it's an ideal destination for weekend getaways, whether you like to hike and bike, dine and drink, or enjoy local festivals.

Supporters have raised about three-fourths of the $9.5 million needed to restore the historic Orpheum Theatre. Plans call for new flooring, seats and other upgrades as part of a year-long renovation project that will start next summer.

Theater-goers will be in for some "surprises," says Ernie Nolan, the new artistic director of the Unicorn Theatre in Kansas City. Nolan assumed the role on July 1, after the retirement of longtime director Cynthia Levin.