Schutte Foundation Gift Will Make the Kauffman Center Gleam

The city-owned Arts District parking garage, immediately south of — and underneath — the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, offers event parking for $13 in advance or $16 upon arrival, easily accessible from the east and south sides of the complex. Please note that credit and debit cards are accepted at the garage, but cash is not accepted. Additional neighboring lots charge $5 to $10 to park. Street parking is metered but not enforced after 6 p.m., so arrive early to acquire those spots.

Valet parking is also available for $22 in advance or $24 upon arrival for most events. A benefit of being a subscriber is having the option of purchasing a season parking pass, which will ensure a space in the Arts District Garage.

Yes, a screen is installed above the stage which displays English supertitles projected during performances.

Drinks can be enjoyed prior to showtimes by visiting the lobby bars, including the sophisticated Founders’ Lounge. Select from a seasonal menu of elegant dishes, cocktails, wines and spirits. The Founders’ Lounge, located just within the south doors, includes views and tastes as superb as the show itself. Reservations are encouraged and walk-ins are welcome.

Spend less time waiting and more time relaxing by visiting the fifth-floor balcony. This bar often has a shorter line coupled with exceptional views of the city.

Enjoy intermission without the hassle of standing in line. Pre-purchase beverages by submitting your beverage order at the nearest bar prior to the performance and it will be ready for pick-up at the same spot at intermission. Available offerings include coffee, soft drinks, alcohol and small snacks.

Remember that drinks are not allowed in the theater.

Contact your point-of-purchase organization at least 24 hours before the event to discuss your options.

Kauffman Center ticket policy applies to all ticketed events held in the venue regardless of point of purchase. Please take a moment to review our policies listed below. If you have trouble finding the information you’re looking for, please call the Kauffman Center Ticket Office at 816.994.7222.

• All ticket sales are final, there are no refunds.
• If the event is canceled or rescheduled, refunds or exchanges, less any fees, may be possible. Please keep your tickets until the options are publicly announced.
• Ticket fees are the same for all performances, whether bought online, by phone or in person.
• Please check all tickets to ensure you have received the correct performance, date and time.
• Events, programs, artists, dates and times are subject to change.
• A ticket (including paper and electronic equivalents) is a revocable license that can be terminated by refunding the ticket price.
• All seating is at the discretion of venue management. Latecomers may be given alternate seating.
• Ticket holders assume all risks and dangers incidental to the event.
• All attendees must have tickets regardless of age. However, some events are not appropriate for all children due to content or duration.
• Telephones, cameras and other electronic devices should be turned off before entering the venue.
• Use of recording devices (video, audio or other medium) is prohibited without written consent.
• Acceptance and use of this ticket give the patron consent to any recording or photographs made by the talent, venue or their contractors.

The best candidates for volunteer positions at the Kauffman Center will exhibit the following:

• A commitment to providing memorable experiences for all patrons.
• Comfort collaborating with others and working in a team environment.
• Treat their fellow volunteers, staff members and patrons of all backgrounds with kindness, dignity and respect.
• Give permission for their photo to be used for publication and other Kauffman Center-related purposes.
• Be 18 years of age or older.

We usually accept volunteer applications from late June to early August preceding each season. If you have any inquiries about when the next volunteer application window will be and how to apply, please email volunteer@kauffmancenter.org and we’ll be glad to answer any and all of your questions.

We encourage volunteers to put any special requests or notes about personal preferences in the VolunteerMatters comments section when signing up for shifts. Keep in mind that VolunteerMatters will not let you add comments to a shift you are already signed up for, so be sure to add a comment as you sign up for every shift. Also, House Supervisors will always do their best to accommodate requests, but due to special circumstances, we cannot guarantee that we will fulfill every request.

Each year, there will be over twenty school matinee performances, and they are listed under the Student Matinees page of our website. At this time, all student matinee performances qualify for the Open Doors Transportation Assistance program. Please be aware that only groups with more than 20 students who are traveling by bus are invited to apply. Also, transportation assistance applications must be received at least four business days prior to the scheduled performance.

You can modify the total number of attendees leading up to the performance. However, any changes are subject to ticket availability and must be made at least one month before the performance date. Additionally, it’s important to note that payment for student tickets is also due at this time.

You’ll find the Founders’ Lounge just within the south doors of the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts. Be sure to check our calendar for open dates and times.

You are more than welcome to dine with us, whether or not you enjoy the performing arts at the Kauffman Center afterward. However, our hours of operation are tailored around performance times. Though we do accept walk-ins depending on availability, therefore we highly recommend making reservations.

We kindly request that if you need to cancel your reservation, please do so 48 hours prior to your time.

Just as with our patrons for performances, restaurant patrons arrive in all styles of dress. Business casual is usually a safe bet if you’re concerned. Any other dress code requirements meet the obligations required by Kansas City restaurant laws and codes.

Much depends on the food you order and your desired experience. However, in general you should plan on up to an hour and a half for a party of up to four people in size who are having appetizers, dinner and dessert.

We are very limited for spacing on large parties. If you plan on having 5 or more people, please email dining@kauffmancenter.org with your inquiry. We will always do our best to accommodate our patrons; however, seating for larger parties will depend on availability.

Yes, the Founders’ Lounge serves delicious adult beverages. The Founders’ Lounge at the Kauffman Center specializes in Kansas City-based spirits, for true local flavor. Before your next performance, enjoy pre-show dining at the Kauffman Center and get a taste of Kansas City history, with spirits-makers dating back as early as the late 19th century.

The Kauffman Center is dedicated to providing an accessible and enjoyable experience for all patrons.

For more information, please visit our accessibility page, email accessibility@kauffmancenter.org or call our ticket office at 816.994.7222.

The Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts supports nursing mothers by providing a dedicated space to express milk. The room has comfortable seating, an electrical wall outlet and a monitor to view the performance.

You may reserve this room in advance by calling our ticket office at 816.994.7222. However, access to this room is also available without prior reservations by speaking to a staff member or volunteer during your visit.

You can. The closest bus stops to the Kauffman Center KC Streetcar stop are:

• Power & Light on Main at 14th St NB (130 yards away, 2 min walk)
• On Walnut Between 18th And 19th (482 yards away, 6 min walk)
• On 13th at Grand/Mcgee Westbound Nearside (509 yards away, 7 min walk)
• On Grand at 12th Southbound (526 yards away, 7 min walk)
• On Oak at 17th Nearside Northbound (574 yards away, 7 min walk)
• On Grand at 16th Southbound Farside (620 yards away, 8 min walk)

The Kansas City Streetcar runs a two-mile route from Union Station to River Market. Expansion is underway to bring the Streetcar as far south as the University of Missouri—Kansas City campus at 51st and Brookside Boulevard. Along the streetcar line, there are also many options for dining near Kauffman Center.

Any school in the five-county metropolitan Kansas City area can submit an order form to purchase tickets for students and chaperones to attend any of the Kauffman Center Presents student matinees. Homeschool groups are also welcome to purchase tickets to these performances.

Orders will be processed as they are received and confirmation emails with invoices will be sent to the teacher and billing contact within 2-3 weeks.

You can adjust the total number of students and adults attending in the months or weeks leading up to the performance, but all changes are subject to ticket availability. All changes must be made by one month before the performance date when ticket payment is also due.

Any school transporting at least 20 students to a qualifying school matinee at the Kauffman Center can apply for a bus transportation allowance. Bus Transportation Fund applications must be submitted at least five business days prior to attending a school matinee at the Kauffman Center.

The Kauffman Center’s Bus Transportation Fund will award funds based on the following guidelines:

1. All public schools with 40% or more of their students participating in the free and reduced lunch program (commonly called Title 1 schools) will be guaranteed to receive a 100% bus transportation allowance.
2. All public schools with 20% to 39% of their students participating in the free and reduced lunch program will be guaranteed to receive a 50% bus transportation allowance and can request consideration for the remaining 50%.
3. All other public schools, as well as private and non-traditional schools, can apply for a full or partial bus transportation allowance.

Your Transportation Fund allowance will be determined based on the number and grades of the students attending. Elementary students in grades K – 5 will be allowed up to $3 per child for a transportation allowance and secondary students in grades 6 – 12 will be allowed up to $4 per student. The transportation allowance will not be available for adults attending the performance.

For example, if your school purchases seats at a qualifying performance for 70 students in the 8th grade, your transportation allowance could be up to $280 or 70 students x $4 per student. Transportation costs in the metropolitan area vary – this reimbursement formula is designed to try to cover the actual costs of transporting students to the Kauffman Center. The actual transportation costs charged by your district may vary.

After you have attended the performance, the Kauffman Center will mail a check to the address indicated on the Form W-9 you submitted as part of your Transportation Fund application.

Kauffman Center Presents provides a fantastic opportunity to see many of the world’s best musicians and performers live. We also bring artists and speakers from other points on the artistic spectrum.

Since 2011, we have hosted authors, comedians, live game shows and family-friendly events. Our Trailblazing Talks speaker series features experts from multiple fields, including photography, journalism, oceanography, art history and more.

The Kauffman Center Presents series has featured musical artists as eclectic and diverse as Aretha Franklin, “Weird Al” Yankovic, Alice Cooper and the Vienna Boys Choir. Other events include comedy legends John Cleese and Lily Tomlin; composers Philip Glass and David Foster; tribute bands Happy Together and Floyd Nation; children’s stage shows Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood Live! and Bluey’s Big Play; and illusion shows like Champions of Magic.

There are discounts available for Kauffman Center Presents performances and special events.

• Grade school, high school and college students can purchase discounted $15 tickets 90 minutes before any Kauffman Center Presents performance. Seating will be based on availability.
• Educators, active-duty military service members and veterans receive a 15% ticket discount for Kauffman Center Presents performances.
• Senior group ticket discounts are available for senior groups affiliated with community organizations such as retirement homes, YMCAs and community centers. Senior groups of 10 or more can purchase tickets to any Kauffman Center Presents performance at a 15% discount.
• Large groups of 10 or more receive a 10% discount on any regularly priced tickets. In addition, groups receive $4 off on each individual ticket fee. Group discounts may vary depending on the presenting organization.

Please visit our Discounts & Group Tickets page, message us or call the ticket office at 816.994.7222 for more information.

The Symphony performs a wide range of music, including classical masterpieces, contemporary compositions, pop concerts, film scores and collaborations with guest artists from various genres.

Yes, the Symphony is committed to music education and offers various programs for students of all ages, including school concerts, youth orchestras and community outreach initiatives.

Kansas City Ballet is known for its commitment to artistic excellence, innovative programming and dedication to community engagement. They often collaborate with other arts organizations and strive to make ballet accessible to diverse audiences.

Lyric Opera of Kansas City produces a diverse range of operas, including classic works from the operatic canon, contemporary pieces and lesser-known gems. Their repertoire spans various styles and periods.

Refreshments:

Refreshments are available at bars located throughout Brandmeyer Great Hall. For select events, bar service is also available on levels 5 and 6.
Please note, food and beverages are to be enjoyed outside Helzberg Hall and Muriel Kauffman Theatre (with the exception of box seating).

Founders’ Lounge Pre-Show Dining:

Founders’ Lounge offers a menu of elegant dishes, a selection of seasonal craft cocktails and a diverse collection of wines and spirits. This experience provides a perfect pre-show complement to any Kauffman Center visit. Founders’ Lounge is open prior to most evening events.

Learn more about the Founders’ Lounge.

Food and beverages are to be enjoyed outside Helzberg Hall and Muriel Kauffman Theatre (with the exception of box seating).

Yes, you can spend more time enjoying intermission instead of waiting in lines. Pre-order your drinks at the bar before curtain for a quick pick-up for events with an intermission.

Yes, cash is accepted at the Founders’ Lounge and bars.

Reservations are available as soon as a performance goes on sale through the Kauffman Center website. The link to our reservation software, Tock, is available on the Dining at Kauffman Center page.

The Founders’ Lounge is available for private events. Please contact our event sales department to learn more.

Our focus is on providing the highest quality dishes to our guests, especially those attending performances at the Kauffman Center. A limited menu allows us to concentrate on that, and to source the freshest ingredients available as we can concentrate our efforts on a select range of items. We will do our best to accommodate special dietary requests on a case-by-case basis.

We have vegetarian and gluten-free menu items available.

Yes. Reservations can be made on Tock. If you have questions or would like to connect with a member of our team, please email dining@kauffmancenter.org.

The Founders’ Lounge can accommodate larger groups. For a party of five or more, please call 816.994.7208 or email dining@kauffmancenter.org to make a reservation.

Please contact the event sales department for private party information and options.

No. Please contact us in advance if you have younger guests in your party, and we will curate a menu option for them.

Gift certificates are available in any denomination and can be purchased at the Kauffman Center Ticket Office, by phone at 816.994.7222 or online.

Ticket Buyer Awareness:

The Kauffman Center Ticket Office and the ticket offices of the presenting organizations are the only official ticket sellers for events at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts. Buy from an official ticket seller to get the:

• Best seats
• Best prices
• Best customer service

If you have purchased through a ticket reseller, your ticket and seating location might not be valid, and the Kauffman Center can’t guarantee entry to the event.

The Kauffman Center can’t offer a refund for tickets purchased from an unauthorized reseller. To request a refund, you will need to refute the purchase with the original seller or your credit card company.

Protect your next purchase:

• Buy tickets through the Kauffman Center Ticket Office or the presenting organization.
• Don’t trust search engines – make sure the result you click on goes to kauffmancenter.org.
• Sign up for email alerts – join the Kauffman Center email list for event announcements and pre-sale access to select shows.

Questions? Get in touch: Message us or call 816.994.7222.

Official Ticket Sellers:

Protect your purchase by buying tickets from the Kauffman Center Ticket Office or from an authorized seller. Authorized ticket sellers for events at the Kauffman Center:

Kauffman Center Ticket Office:
kauffmancenter.org | 816.994.7222

Kansas City Ballet:
kcballet.org | 816.931.8993

Kansas City Symphony:
kcsymphony.org | 816.471.0400

Lyric Opera of Kansas City:
kcopera.org | 816.471.7344

We recommend arriving at least 30 minutes before your performance time. For most public events, doors to the Kauffman Center open 90 minutes prior to showtime, and doors to Muriel Kauffman Theatre and Helzberg Hall typically open 30 minutes before showtime. Times may vary according to the event. In addition, the ticket office opens 90 minutes prior to showtime.

Patrons arrive in all styles of dress. Some performances can be a bit dressier than others, but business casual is usually a safe bet. If you have questions about a specific performance, feel free to inquire at our ticket office.

There are a number of youth-focused performances that are designed specifically for children. For other performances, participation works best when children are at an age where they can sit quietly and avoid disturbing the other patrons. Those with children should keep in mind that, for most productions, patrons who must leave the performance venue for any reason during a show cannot re-enter the hall until an approved break or intermission.

All children must hold a ticket, regardless of age. Some performance companies who use our performing spaces do have age restrictions and it might be a good idea to check on their individual policies.

If you leave your ticket at home, please visit the Kauffman Center Ticket Office located on Level 2 on the south side of the building. The ticket office opens 90 minutes prior to showtime.

The ability to seat latecomers varies depending on the performance. For musical performances, latecomers can sometimes be seated between pieces. Patrons who arrive late for the opera are generally not seated until intermission. So be sure to get to the Kauffman Center with plenty of time to find your seat and get comfortable.

Please turn off cell phones, iPads and all other electronic devices before entering a performance hall. Noises such as a cell phone ringing or vibrating are very distracting to musicians and your fellow audience members. Texting is also distracting, so please do not text during a performance.

Yes! We have a wonderful gift shop fully stocked with all kinds of Kauffman Center souvenirs and gifts. It is located in Brandmeyer Great Hall and is open on performance days and evenings for your convenience.

Select items from the Kauffman Center Gift Shop are also available at shop.kauffmancenter.org.

Yes, coat check is located to the east of the ticket office on Level 2 and is open year-round. In addition, a cell phone charger is available at this location. Please call the ticket office at 816.994.7222 for more information.

Found items are immediately taken to the Security Console located at the Stage and Performers Entrance near the north entry. Kauffman Center Security will make every effort to identify and contact the owners of lost items. Items unclaimed after 90 days will be donated to a local charity. Cash and items of significant value left over 90 days will be treated as a donation to the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts. To inquire about a lost item, contact Kauffman Center Security at 816.994.7244.

Restrooms can be found on every level of the Kauffman Center. Ask a house manager or usher for directions to the most convenient location. Most restrooms also have water fountains nearby.

There are designated smoking areas outside both the north and south entrances. Please be considerate and deposit your cigarettes in the smokers’ poles after use.

Yes, a screen is installed above the stage which displays English subtitles projected during performances.

Feel free to contact us online or by phone at 816.994.7222. Information about our business hours are on our Tours & Hours page.

Any school in the five-county metropolitan Kansas City area and outside the KC metro can submit an order form to purchase tickets for students and chaperones to attend any of the Kauffman Center Presents student matinees. Homeschool groups are also welcome to purchase tickets to these performances.

Orders for Kauffman Center Presents student matinee performances will be processed as they are received and confirmation emails with order information will be sent to the teacher within 1-2 weeks. Teachers are then responsible for sending relevant details to administrators to begin the payment process.

If your approved group needs to cancel a student matinee reservation, please let the Kauffman Center know as early as possible by sending a notification to opendoors@kauffmancenter.org. Tickets must be paid for in full no later than one month prior to the performance date. Any school that cancels beyond that deadline will not receive a refund.

Applications will be processed as they are received and approvals sent to the teacher within one to two weeks.

Transportation Fund only applies to the cost of bus transportation for schools bringing 20 or more students to a performance. Seats for all performances must be purchased directly from the arts organization offering the school matinee.

No. You must reserve and purchase your seats for the school matinee directly from the arts organization.

Registering for the event is encouraged so patrons can receive up-to-date information on any Future Stages Festival announcements, changes, performances and activities. Registering is FREE and helps the Kauffman Center staff prepare for the number of people planning to attend.

The show must go on! Future Stages Festival is a rain or shine event, however, performances and activities planned for outdoors may be canceled by inclement weather on the festival day or in the days leading up to the festival. The Kauffman Center closely monitors the weather in the days and weeks leading up to the festival and will make decisions with the safety of performers, patrons and staff in mind.

Guests are welcome to park in the Arts District Garage (check back in spring 2025 for pricing). The garage is directly attached to the Kauffman Center just south of the building. Credit and debit cards are accepted at the garage, but cash is not accepted. Additional parking is available for purchase at the Webster Garage (located at 17th St. & Wyandotte St.) Street parking is available, and the Kauffman Center is a stop on the streetcar line at 16th St. and Main St.

Outside food and drinks will not be permitted into the festival with the exception of a sealed disposable bottle of water or an empty reusable water bottle that can be filled at water fountains throughout the Kauffman Center. Light food and drinks will be available at concessions inside the facility and food trucks located on the south driveway. Please note, no food or drinks are allowed inside Muriel Kauffman Theatre or Helzberg Hall.

There will be food trucks on site with light food options and sweet treats available to purchase. These trucks will be located on the Kauffman Center’s driveway near the building’s south entrance. There are also several restaurants within walking distance of the Kauffman Center.

All persons and items entering the Kauffman Center are required to go through security screening upon arrival. Kauffman Center management reserves the right to refuse any item deemed a potential safety or security risk or with the potential to be a distraction to the event being held. Screenings may include, but are not limited to, bag searches, visual screenings, hand-held magnetometers and walk-through magnetometers and/or threat detection systems. For more information about prohibited items, please see our policies above.

In the event of a missing child, please immediately find a Kauffman Center staff member or volunteer. All Kauffman Center event staff and ushers are trained for emergency situations including missing persons. Additionally, “Tag-a-Tot” opportunities will be available at festival information tables. “Tag-a-Tot” provides a wristband containing the contact information of a parent or guardian to help reunite the child in the event of separation.

Patrons arrive at Future Stages Festival in all styles of dress. Please feel free to wear casual and comfortable clothing appropriate for the weather forecast. The Kauffman Center indoor areas will be air-conditioned, and outdoor areas will have some fans and shade.

Yes, strollers are welcome, and stroller storage will be available on the Kauffman Center Plaza Lobby level and on Brandmeyer Great Hall. Please note, strollers must remain outside Muriel Kauffman Theatre and Helzberg Hall, so they do not obstruct aisles.

Pets will not be allowed at Future Stages Festival in any indoor or outdoor space. Service animals are always welcome at the Kauffman Center.

The Kauffman Center will have KC Medical EMTs available and on-site throughout the duration of the festival. Additionally, Saint Luke’s Health System will also have a first aid station located near the Kauffman Center ticket office.

Personal photos and videos are permitted at Future Stages Festival. Please turn off all flash photography. Professional equipment and photo/video are not permitted except by approved festival photographers who will be on site capturing images throughout the event. Attendance at Future Stages Festival gives the patron’s consent to any recordings or photographs made by the venue or their contractors.

Most public spaces will be open on the day of the event. Visitors may enjoy performances in both theaters, as well as explore the south lawn, Brandmeyer Great Hall and the building’s perimeter. Engaging arts activities from community partners can be found inside and outside of the facility.

Each performance group has 20 minutes to perform. The schedule is blocked off in 30-minute increments to make sure there is enough time for stage transitions between groups.

Performance group descriptions and performance schedules are available on the Kauffman Center website: kauffmancenter.org/future-stages-festival. Each performance group will be introduced from the stage prior to their performance.

All performers will be checked in at the Performer Check-In table on the north side of the building (16th St.). Groups performing on an indoor stage will be released to Brandmeyer Great Hall (lobby space) after their performance. Groups performing on outdoor stages will be released from the stage after their performance. Performance group leaders are responsible for reuniting parents with their children post-performance.

We ask that only chaperones approved by the performance group leaders be brought into backstage areas. Only these approved chaperones will be provided with credentials that must be worn at all times and granted access to backstage areas.

Flowers are welcome inside the building, but we ask that they be kept outside of Muriel Kauffman Theatre and Helzberg Hall. We invite all guests to leave their flowers inside the gift shop or another designated location.

Balloons filled with helium are not permitted within the Kauffman Center.

Future Stages Festival is an extension of the Kauffman Center’s community engagement programs and is designed to provide opportunities for young artists to share the stage and spotlight of the Kauffman Center. Participating performance groups were selected through a juried and scored application process. Performances are not judged or scored at the event.

For any other questions, please send an email to opendoors@kauffmancenter.org.

Volunteers are at the heart of making the Kauffman Center thrive. Whether greeting daily visitors, ushering at a performance, staffing the gift shop or working in the office, volunteers demonstrate spirit, giving and energy each and every day. If you are interested in becoming involved, you’ll find a variety of activities to match your skills and schedule. Learn more on our Volunteer page.

The best candidates for volunteer positions at the Kauffman Center exhibit the following:

• A commitment to providing memorable experiences for all patrons.
• Comfort collaborating with others and working in a team environment.
• Treat their fellow volunteers, staff members and patrons of all backgrounds with kindness, dignity and respect.
• Give permission for their photo to be used for publication and other Kauffman Center-related purposes.
• Be 18 years of age or older.

Those interested in volunteering at the Kauffman Center may apply for the apprentice program, which is the selection process and training program for new and returning volunteers.

If applicants are admitted to the apprentice program, they will:

• Attend an in-person info session and complete a comprehensive background check
• Participate in three in-person training classes that cover the breadth of skills volunteers need to find success at the Kauffman Center
• Complete periodic online and in-person assessments
• Volunteer as a performance & event usher for four guided shifts alongside veteran volunteers.

Those who successfully complete the apprentice program receive an invitation to join the Kauffman Center Volunteer Program!

Kauffman Center volunteers are asked to volunteer at least 15 times every season in a variety of roles at many types of performances, concerts and events.

Primary volunteer roles include:

• Usher
• Plaza Lobby Greeter
• Security Screening Greeter
• Ticket Taker
• Garage Greeter
• Gift Shop Greeter
• Coat Check Attendant

Occasional / specialty volunteer roles include:

• Event Greeter
• Bus Attendant
• Student Matinee Greeter
• Merchandise Table Assistant
• Membership Table Assistant
• Program Stuffing
• Outreach and Education Team
• Administrative Volunteer
• Tour Guide

We offer up close and free parking during volunteer shifts, flexible scheduling, an excellent training program, social outings around Kansas City, special events hosted at the Kauffman Center and much, much more!

Transportation costs can be a major hurdle for schools, especially those with limited budgets. The Kauffman Center is committed to making performances accessible to as many students as possible by offering transportation assistance. To apply, complete the application form at least five business days prior to the scheduled performance. Our team will review your application and get back to you promptly.

Learn More

Kauffman Center Presents student matinees are open to public, private, charter and homeschool groups from the five-county metropolitan area as well as those areas outside the KC metro. All students and chaperones must purchase a ticket to enter the venue.

Digital ticketing offers you the convenience of using your smartphone as your event ticket, providing access to the Kauffman Center with a unique QR code that can be scanned from your screen. If you have digital tickets for your event, please see these instructions before visiting the Kauffman Center.

Performances are rarely canceled due to inclement weather. In the case of snow or ice, you can count on all Kauffman Center sidewalks, driveways and entry points to be clear and accessible.

It is possible that a tour, school program or community event might be canceled due to bad weather. In the unlikely event of a cancellation, the Kauffman Center will update its website banner and post a voicemail recording on its main ticket office line: 816.994.7222.

Opening in 2011, the Kauffman Center serves as a cultural cornerstone for extraordinary and diverse music, opera, theater and dance performances for Kansas City and the region. Designed by internationally recognized architect Moshe Safdie, the Kauffman Center has been honored as one of the World’s 15 Most Beautiful Concert Halls, which attracts some of the world’s most renowned performers and entertainers. The 285,000-square-foot Center includes two performance halls: the 1,800-seat Muriel Kauffman Theatre that hosts dance performances, operas, plays and musicals and the 1,600-seat Helzberg Hall, a venue for a wide range of musical performances, from chamber music to full orchestral concerts, jazz and pop, lectures and recitals.

The Kauffman Center is the performance home for three of the region’s leading performing arts organizations – Kansas City Ballet, Lyric Opera of Kansas City, Kansas City Symphony. In addition, the Kauffman Center Presents series brings in performing artists at the top of their classes as well as Trailblazing Talks, a live speaker series. Since opening, the Kauffman Center has offered over 3,100 performances and welcomed more than 4.5 million visitors.

By engaging the community and creating access to arts experiences, more than 415,000 students attended over 366 matinees offered by the Kauffman Center, its resident companies and other arts organizations.

The Kauffman Center has three resident organizations: Kansas City Ballet, Lyric Opera of Kansas City and Kansas City Symphony.

Learn More

Yes, ticket fees are the same for all performances whether bought online, by phone or in-person. Ticket fees help support the Kauffman Center’s operation costs as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.

The Kauffman Center places the highest priority on the comfort and safety of its patrons. The Kauffman Center provides 24 hour security and video surveillance services, plus EMT medical services at most events. Staff and ushers are trained to provide direction and support if emergency egress or severe weather refuge is required. If you have questions regarding emergency procedures, please call 816.994.7222.

Emergency and Evacuation Information

The Kauffman Center places the highest priority on the comfort and safety of its patrons. All staff and ushers are trained in emergency procedures to provide direction and support if an emergency arises at any time. There are eight stairwells located throughout the building designated for evacuation purposes only. The Kauffman Center also provides 24-hour security and video surveillance services, plus Kansas City Police Officers and EMT medical services at most events. If you have any questions about emergency procedures, please see a House Supervisor or Team Captain for more detailed information. The video below provides information on our emergency procedures.

Accessible Emergency Evacuation Procedures

In the event of an evacuation, staff and ushers will guide patrons who cannot navigate stairs to a designated Emergency Evacuation Assistance area. These areas are placed throughout the facility to ensure the safety of all patrons who do not feel they can safely follow the prescribed egress route.

Kauffman Center staff will communicate with first responders about how many patrons are at each area of rescue. First responders will evacuate these areas immediately upon arrival. Patrons who have any questions about emergency procedures should see a Patron Services staff member for more detailed information.

The Kauffman Center features two main performance halls: the Muriel Kauffman Theatre and Helzberg Hall.

Inspired by the great opera houses of Europe, Muriel Kauffman Theatre is designed to be visually striking, while providing an intimate experience for both audiences and performers.

Helzberg Hall is oval in shape, with a vineyard-style seating configuration. The stage extends into the hall, placing 40 percent of the seats alongside or behind the stage.

Learn More

For single ticket purchases, all sales are final. There are no refunds, exchanges or cancellations.

For season ticket holders, exchanges are allowed and are done by the presenting organization. Policies and procedures for those exchanges vary by organization. For exact requirements, you should check with the specific ticket office of the presenting organization.

The Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts hosts almost 500,000 visitors annually who experience over 350 extraordinary, world-class performing arts experiences. To help ensure such experiences for each visitor are enjoyed, the Center has created policies and procedures to promote a secure, welcoming environment for each guest.

The evolution of the Kauffman Center’s security screening policy, in collaboration with our presenting partners, demonstrates an ongoing effort to reduce concerns about bulky or unsafe items which hinder the security, and comfort of all patrons. Policies and procedures at the Kauffman Center continue to evolve as technology and resources emerge that fit the environmental and security needs of all patrons.

All persons and items entering the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts are subject to search. Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts management reserves the right to refuse any item deemed a potential safety or security risk or with the potential to be a distraction to the event being held.

Screenings will be performed by trained professional contracted security staff, and may include, but are not limited to:

• Visual screening
• Bag, case, coat, and hat screenings
• Hand-held magnetometers
• Walk-through magnetometers and/or threat detection systems
• Certain types of bags and/or cases are prohibited, including but not limited to:
• Backpacks
• Luggage
• Computer Bags
• Camera Bags/Cases
• Instrument Cases
• Briefcases
• Large Totes and Duffel Bags

All bags entering the Kauffman Center will be screened at the point of entry. Items prohibited in the Kauffman Center include, but are not limited to:

• Firearms of any size or type*
• Other weapons and knives of any size or type
• Pepper spray, mace or other chemicals
• Alcohol, illegal substances or drug paraphernalia
• Cameras, video and audio recording equipment
• Laptops and tablets**
• Cans, bottles or outside food and beverages
• Helium balloons

*The Kauffman Center prohibits anyone from entering the building with weapons, including those with concealed carry permits. Licensed active-duty law enforcement officers may contact the Patron Services team with appropriate identification upon arrival if carrying a firearm. All Kauffman Center visitors are subject to search. Anyone found in violation will be asked to secure the weapon inside their vehicle or leave the property immediately.

**Exceptions may be made for those utilizing accessibility services on their personal device.

Patrons with prohibited bags, cases, or other items have two options:

• The item may be returned to a vehicle prior to admittance.
• Bags or cases may be left at the Kauffman Center’s Coat Check located on the Plaza Lobby Level. (These items will be screened prior to entering the facility.)

The following exceptions will be made after a proper inspection for:

• Diaper bags
• Oversized medically necessary items
• Equipment use of approved media outlets accompanied and approved by Kauffman Center staff

Backpack purses must be worn on one shoulder. If the purse is worn as a backpack, the patron will be asked to adhere to this policy or check the bag at Coat Check.

Unattended items left anywhere in the facility will be inspected and taken to the Security Office.

Please note:

Our security protocol is a perpetual, sustained, and ever-expanding effort. The Kauffman Center continues to reevaluate safety and security processes and new applications may be integrated into our operations to better provide service to our patrons and guests.

For questions or to connect with a Kauffman Center staff representative, please get in touch with us.

Contact Us
Phone: 816.994.7222

The Kauffman Center offers four memberships:

1. Spotlight: When you join Spotlight, you’ll receive a bevy of benefits and priority access while supporting our non-profit mission. Memberships start at $75 and include such perks as complimentary tickets, valet parking, pre-sale access to tickets and much more.
2. Spotlight Premier: As a Spotlight Premier member, your contribution of $5,000 or more helps stage unsurpassed performances at the Kauffman Center and provides arts outreach and access for thousands of youth, families and veterans every year. You’ll receive exclusive invitations to events, priority ticket access and more.
3. Trailblazers: Trailblazers is a membership program associated with the Kauffman Center’s Trailblazing Talks speaker series. Members of Trailblazers gain access to pre-show receptions and Q&A’s with Trailblazing Talks presenters while supporting the Kauffman Center’s mission to share diverse performing arts experiences with our entire community.
4. Ensemble: Businesses who join Ensemble receive year-round business development, recognition and hospitality benefits.

The Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts is located in downtown Kansas City, Missouri at 1601 Broadway Blvd. and can be easily accessed by major highways or public transportation. The Kauffman Center KC Streetcar stop is located at 16th St. & Main St. Bicycle racks are available on the side south of the building to the east and west.

• From I-35 North, exit at West Pennway. Travel one block east to Washington. Turn left (north) onto 17th St., and then turn right (east) to Kauffman Center.
• From I-70 West, exit at either 13th St. or Locust/Truman. Travel west to Baltimore St., and then turn right onto 17th Street. Continue west on 17th St. to the Kauffman Center.
• From I-35 South, exit at 20th St. Travel east to Broadway, and then turn left, traveling north to Kauffman Center. Turn right on 17th St.
• From I-670, exit to I-35 south and follow the directions above.

Additional information can be found on the Directions & Parking page.

Group ticket rates are often available for groups of 10 or more and vary by performance and organization. For more information, please visit our Discounts & Group Tickets page.

The Kauffman Center prohibits employees and the public with concealed carry permits from entering the building with weapons. All Kauffman Center visitors are subject to search. Anyone found in violation will be asked to secure the weapon inside their vehicle or leave the property immediately.

A recurring monthly membership allows you to divide your membership payment into 12 installments.

Each month, your credit card will automatically be charged the amount you’ve selected. Membership runs for 12 months beginning when you sign up. At the end of 12 months, your credit card will auto renew at the same level to begin the next year of membership.

The adjacent city-owned Arts District Garage has 1,000 spaces and is convenient, secure and well-lit. Parking for events is available in the city-owned Arts District Garage for $13 in advance or $16 upon arrival. The garage is located on the south side of the Kauffman Center. Please note that credit and debit cards are accepted at the garage, but cash is not accepted.

Valet parking is also available for $22 in advance or $24 upon arrival for most events. Valet parking is available on the drop-off drive located on the south side of the building. Patrons may enter the drive via Broadway Blvd.

You may pre-purchase garage or valet parking passes through our website or by calling our ticket office at 816.994.7222 during business hours.

Pre-purchasing parking guarantees a reserved spot in the garage, even if the garage sells out. Please note that if the garage is full, patrons without a pre-paid pass will not be able to park in the Arts District Garage, and will be directed to other parking facilities in the vicinity.

Additional information can be found on the Directions & Parking page.

We’d love for you to share about your experience here with everyone! Taking photos and video before and/or after the performance is fine. However, taking photos during performances is prohibited unless otherwise stated. Video and audio recording of performances is prohibited.

Patrons are welcome to take personal pictures outside the building, in the lobby and in the theaters before the performance begins.

Reserving the Kauffman Center for professional photography is subject to a request and approval process. Please visit our Photography Request page to learn more.

An annual membership allows you to pay for the entire 12-month membership at one time, instead of over the course of 12 months. Membership runs for 12 months beginning when you sign up.

Your credit card will not be automatically charged at the end of your 12-month membership. Before your membership expires, you will receive communication from the Kauffman Center for you to renew.

The Kauffman Center is dedicated to providing an accessible and enjoyable experience to all patrons. The Arts District Garage and the Kauffman Center have wide pathways and elevators for guests in wheelchairs. Both performance halls have seating areas reserved for patrons using wheelchairs in varying locations and at several ticket price levels. Each wheelchair position also has a companion seat available. Assistive Listening Devices are available for checkout at our gift shop prior to each performance.

For more information, please visit the Accessibility page, call our ticket office at 816.994.7222 or message us.

Yes. If you would like your membership to auto renew each year at the same time, you may sign up here.

Private tours, approximately 60 minutes in length, are available with advance reservations. Each tour is led by a trained guide and strives to give attendees a full experience. However, due to our active performance and rehearsal schedule, we cannot guarantee that every tour will visit both performance halls. For details and pricing information, visit the Tours & Hours page.

The Kauffman Center maintains public access hours on most Fridays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. during which visitors may explore Brandmeyer Great Hall, Helzberg Hall and Muriel Kauffman Theatre with guidance from a volunteer greeter. Occasionally performances, concerts or event set-up does not allow us to offer this experience or visits may be limited to Brandmeyer Great Hall. Please be sure to check the Kauffman Center website or contact the Kauffman Center Ticket Office at 816.994.7222 before your visit.

To cancel or disable auto renew, click here. You will be prompted to enter the email associated with your account, which will generate a verification code that you’ll receive in your email. Use that to code to complete the sign-in process to cancel or disable auto renew. You can also contact Kelly Burt at kburt@kauffmancenter.org or 816.994.7927.

Yes, the Kauffman Center is available for special event and performance rentals. To learn more and inquire about availability, visit our Venue Rentals page.

To update your billing account information, click here. You will be prompted to enter the email associated with your account, which will generate a verification code that you’ll receive in your email. Use that to code to complete the sign-in process to update your information. You can also contact Kelly Burt at kburt@kauffmancenter.org or 816.994.7927.

Contact Kelly Burt at kburt@kauffmancenter.org or 816.994.7927.

After you sign up for a membership, you will receive a letter in the mail that includes your tax information and your parking voucher code. That code can be found on the bottom left of the letter.

To redeem that code for a performance at the Kauffman Center, enter the voucher code in the “Gift Certificate ID” box before you checkout with an online order. You can also visit this link to redeem your parking voucher without purchasing tickets to an event. Our ticket office is also happy to provide your parking voucher code and apply it to the performance for which you’d like to redeem the voucher. They can be reached at 816.994.7222