Five Questions With 2023’s Spotlight Members Concert Artist, Kate Cosentino
Kate Cosentino is a hometown talent and the Kauffman Center’s guest performer at this year’s Spotlight Free Members Concert & Reception. Cosentino captivated viewers with her humor, personality and stage presence throughout Season 23 of The Voice. Don’t miss the chance to watch this talented artist as she takes the stage in Helzberg Hall on Oct. 30!
How do you think growing up in Kansas City affected your songwriting/singing?
Growing up in Kansas City immersed me in a really unique and fun music scene. The rich jazz history influenced my desire to study jazz guitar. The thriving indie/alternative rock scene sparked my love for live shows and influenced a lot of my lyric writing. In my experience, KC celebrates creativity and music, so I was exposed to a lot of great art and music from a young age which made me feel passionate about making it my career.
What are you looking forward to about performing at the Kauffman Center?
I am absolutely giddy about performing at the Kauffman Center. It’s one of the most iconic venues in Kansas City AND it feels like a homecoming. I was in the children’s choir of the first show that opened the Kauffman in 2011 – Turandot. That was one of my first experiences on a stage that large and gorgeous. It’s really full circle for that little girl to have continued music and now be headlining a show there. Also, I love Halloween so I’m excited for the costumes.
What can patrons expect from your performance in October?
Patrons can expect me in all my quirky, colorful, dad-joke-making glory. They’ll hear songs from my post-graduation EP Note to Self, songs from The Voice AND some un-released songs as well. I’m excited to tell stories from my time growing up in Kansas City, pursuing music in Nashville, and from my recent endeavor of being on The Voice.
What is your favorite song to perform and why?
I love to perform “Emergency Contact.” It’s by far my funniest song and I just love to get the room dancing and laughing.
What is your favorite thing about Kansas City?
It is impossible to name just one thing, but I’d have to say the people. Some of the kindest, most hardworking and most genuine people come from Kansas City. I’ve always felt encouraged and supported by my hometown to keep making music and that has made all the difference in my life. Oh, and Grinders Pizza.
Prior to the performance, enjoy Halloween-inspired appetizers and cocktails in Brandmeyer Great Hall. Guests are invited to come in costume for this festive evening of music and fall-inspired treats. Following the concert, join the artist and her band members in the lobby for photos against the stunning Kansas City skyline, and don’t forget your spooky treat to go.
Free tickets to see Kate Cosentino are available now for Spotlight members. To reserve seats, visit tickets.kauffmancenter.org/cosentino and enter the promo code sent to you via email or call the Kauffman Center Ticket Office at 816.994.7222.
Not a member? Join Spotlight, the Kauffman Center’s individual membership program, to reserve your free tickets at kauffmancenter.org/spotlight. Memberships start at $75 for one person and $125 for two. Questions? Call 816.994.7927.