Black Violin Reaches KC Community Students

On Nov. 17, the Kauffman Center hosted Black Violin for a student matinee in Muriel Kauffman Theatre. With approximately 1,500 students from 26 schools, the Kauffman Center filled the theatre with an equal mix of classical and hip-hop enthusiasm! The show had all ages up on their feet, from kindergarteners to seniors in high school. Even better, the Kauffman Center was able to bring in students from all across the KC metro area for this exciting and inspiring performance.

Named one of the hottest bands at South by Southwest, Black Violin has opened for such diverse names in music as Kanye West, 50 Cent, Aerosmith, and Tom Petty. Black Violin has creatively collaborated with the likes of Wu-Tang Clan, Linkin Park, Wyclef Jean and Alicia Keys.

The duo’s UNITY tour “encourages people of all ages, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds to find what connects us, rather than shine a light on what divides us”. Black Violin has played in front of nearly 100,000 students this past year alone, encouraging young people to rise above labels and embrace their identity. At one point in the show, they encourage the audience to make their interests and hobbies cool, even if they  are not ‘traditionally cool’ interests (such as playing an instrument). With such an empowering message, the Kauffman Center hopes that the students left with more than just an awesome beat stuck in their head.

If you can’t tell from this photo, the kids had a great time and truly embraced the spirit of the performance. We think the teachers may have had just as much fun as the kids!

These student matinees are made possible by our Open Doors program, which is just one way the Kauffman Center provides access to high quality arts programs for youth throughout the metropolitan area. Through the Open Doors Transportation Fund and the Open Doors Community Tickets program, the Kauffman Center is continuing to impact the lives of Kanas City youth. Those interested in learning more about the Open Doors program or making a donation can click here.

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