Broadway in Kansas City 2025 – 2026

From big-stage blockbusters to beloved classics, Broadway in Kansas City brings the magic of musical theatre straight to the Midwest. Whether you’re planning a glam night out or a family-friendly show, this guide covers where to go, what to wear, and how to score the best seats in town.

Broadway Shows in Kansas City

Main Venues for Broadway Shows in Kansas City

Music Hall Kansas City

When it comes to Broadway in Kansas City, the spotlight shines brightest on the Music Hall. Built in the 1930s, this Art Deco gem is part of the Municipal Auditorium complex and features shimmering chandeliers, golden detailing, and a retro charm that feels straight out of a Golden Age musical.

With a seating capacity of around 2,400, the Music Hall is the primary venue for major touring productions—think Wicked, Hadestown, Beetlejuice. It’s large enough to host big sets and casts, yet intimate enough to keep you emotionally tethered to the performance.

Accessibility is well covered. The venue includes wheelchair-accessible seating, elevators to all levels, and assisted listening devices. The stage itself is spacious, allowing for full-scale Broadway sets to come alive without compromise. If you’re looking for that classic, immersive theater vibe—this is the place to be.

Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts

Just a short walk from the Music Hall, the Kauffman Center is Kansas City’s sleek, modern jewel. With its swooping glass exterior and sweeping views of downtown, it’s as much a work of art as the shows inside.

While it primarily hosts the Kansas City Symphony, Ballet, and Opera, it occasionally features Broadway-style performances and special musical productions. The Muriel Kauffman Theatre inside the center is known for its crisp acoustics, perfect sightlines, and velvet-draped elegance—ideal for more intimate musicals or cross-genre collaborations.

If you’re after a posh, refined night out, the Kauffman Center delivers elegance with every note and spotlight.

Other Notable Spaces

Starlight Theatre brings a completely different energy to the Broadway scene—it’s outdoors. Nestled in Swope Park, this seasonal venue hosts Broadway tours during warmer months. With nearly 8,000 seats and open-air ambiance, it’s the go-to for summer musicals under the stars. Bring a blanket, dress for the breeze, and prepare for an unforgettable al fresco theater experience.

Then there’s the Folly Theater, one of KC’s oldest stages. It’s smaller, more intimate, and perfect for one-night-only concerts, Broadway tributes, or niche theatrical acts. Don’t expect full-set productions here—but if you love seeing stars in a historic space, it’s worth keeping on your radar.

Whether you’re looking for Broadway grandeur, modern sophistication, or a unique night under the sky, Kansas City’s venues offer a theatrical home for every kind of showgoer.

Where and How to Buy Tickets

Official Sources

Scoring Broadway tickets in Kansas City is easy—if you know where to look. Your first stop should be the official site for Broadway Across America’s KC series. It’s where season subscriptions, individual tickets, and presale access all live. No scams, no drama, just clean access to the best seats in town.

If you prefer buying in person, head straight to the box offices at the Music Hall or Kauffman Center. The staff can help with seating questions, accessible arrangements, or same-day tickets if you’re feeling spontaneous.

Looking for flexibility? Trusted resellers like StubHub and Ticketmaster offer verified resale listings and hard-to-get seats. Just be sure to double-check your show date and section—it’s easy to click the wrong Tuesday.

Ticket Tips and Savings

Broadway might be big, but it doesn’t have to break the bank. Kansas City offers a few smart ways to make theater-going more affordable without sacrificing seat quality.

• Group discounts: Planning a school trip, girls’ night, or office outing? Most shows offer group rates for 10+ tickets. It’s a win-win: better pricing and guaranteed seats together.
• Rush or student tickets: Some productions offer last-minute rush tickets or student discounts at the box office on show day. Bring your ID and a little patience—you might just snag orchestra seats at balcony prices.
• Season subscriber perks: Subscribers not only get early access and locked-in pricing but also enjoy free exchanges, upgrade options, and presale codes for add-on shows. It’s like VIP treatment without the velvet rope.
• Early vs. last-minute buying: For blockbuster hits, buy early. They sell out fast and prices rise quickly. For lesser-known titles or weekday shows, checking back a day or two before may turn up discounted or released seats.

Whether you’re splurging on front-row orchestra or aiming for value in the mezzanine, smart ticket strategies can turn any night at the theater into a standing ovation moment—for your wallet too.

Kansas City Broadway Season Subscription Info

If one show a year just doesn’t cut it, a Broadway season subscription is your backstage pass to Kansas City’s full lineup. With guaranteed seats, built-in savings, and plenty of perks, it’s the easiest way to turn theater night into a recurring highlight of your calendar.

What’s Included in a Season Pass

A season subscription includes tickets to all mainstage productions in the Kansas City Broadway Series—typically 5 to 7 shows ranging from timeless classics to hot new tours. Your seats are reserved for the same day of the week (like every Saturday evening), making planning a breeze.

Bonus shows or optional add-ons—like one-night concerts or limited engagements—are sometimes available as well, with first access going to subscribers before the general public.

Seat Selection and Pricing Tiers

Whether you like to sit front and center or high and budget-friendly, there’s a tier for you. Subscribers choose from multiple pricing levels based on location: Orchestra Premium, Orchestra Standard, Mezzanine, or Balcony. The earlier you buy, the better your seat options.

Each tier includes the full season, with price differences based on view and proximity to the stage—not the quality of the show, which is top-tier from every angle.

How to Subscribe or Renew

You can subscribe or renew online, by phone, or in person at the Music Hall box office. Renewal windows usually open at the end of each season, giving current subscribers first shot at keeping—or upgrading—their seats.

New subscribers are welcomed as soon as open seats become available. If you want in, sign up for alerts and act fast—premium sections can disappear faster than the final curtain.

Subscriber Perks

• Free ticket exchanges for a different date of the same show (pending availability).
• Early access to buy extra tickets for friends and family—often before public sales begin.
• Priority upgrades during renewal, letting you improve your seat location each season.
• Flexible payment plans that let you spread the cost over a few months instead of paying all at once.

In short, if you love Broadway and want the easiest way to see it all, subscribing is a no-brainer. You get great seats, real savings, and none of the FOMO.

Where to Sit: Best Seats for Value and View

Choosing the right seat at a Broadway show isn’t just about how close you are to the stage—it’s about how you want to experience the performance. Kansas City’s theaters offer a variety of options across different levels and price points. Here’s how to find your perfect spot.

Orchestra vs. Mezzanine vs. Balcony

The orchestra level puts you right in the action. You’ll feel every note, see every expression, and likely catch some details you’d miss from higher up. These are the most expensive seats for a reason—they’re immersive and powerful, especially for emotionally charged shows or heavy dialogue.

Looking for a broader view? The mezzanine is your sweet spot. Slightly elevated, it gives you a clean perspective on the full stage layout, making it ideal for big ensemble numbers, elaborate sets, and choreography-heavy productions like Chicago or Moulin Rouge!.

The balcony offers the most budget-friendly experience. While you’ll be farther from the stage, the sound still carries well, and for many shows, it’s a solid value—especially for casual theatergoers or families attending their first Broadway night.

Seat Selection Advice by Venue

At Music Hall Kansas City, the front mezzanine offers arguably the best value—great views, strong acoustics, and a price that won’t make you wince. In the orchestra, stick to the center for the clearest line of sight, and avoid the extreme sides if staging feels important to your show choice.

At the Kauffman Center, there isn’t a bad seat in the house. The design was built with acoustics and sightlines in mind, but for visual-heavy productions, front orchestra or parterre (a box-like area between orchestra and mezzanine) offers a luxurious and clear vantage point.

Accessibility Seating and ADA Options

Both the Music Hall and Kauffman Center offer excellent ADA-compliant seating. Accessible areas are available on orchestra and mezzanine levels, with companion seating nearby. For large productions or shows expected to sell out, it’s best to reserve accessible seating early.

Elevator Access and Hearing Support

Worried about stairs or mobility? Elevators are available at both main venues, and ushers are happy to assist. For guests who are deaf or hard of hearing, assistive listening devices are available upon request at no charge—just ask at guest services before the curtain rises.

At the end of the day, the “best” seat depends on what matters most to you: intimacy, scope, or savings. But with a little planning, there’s a great seat waiting—no matter your budget or preferences.

Getting There: Parking & Transportation

Parking Garage Options

Good news—both Music Hall Kansas City and the Kauffman Center have solid parking nearby. For Music Hall, the Muni Garage (right beneath the auditorium) is your best bet—convenient, affordable, and covered. At the Kauffman Center, the Arts District Garage sits just south of the building with direct access to the venue, making arrival and departure smooth as jazz.

Street Parking Availability

If you’re feeling lucky, metered street parking is available downtown—free after 6 PM on weekdays and all day Sunday. Keep an eye on signage, especially around event zones, and try to arrive early if you’re aiming for curbside gold.

Ride-Share Zones

Both venues have designated Uber and Lyft drop-off zones. At Music Hall, drivers typically stop along 13th Street near Central or Wyandotte. At the Kauffman Center, there’s a clear drop-off area near the main entrance off Broadway Boulevard. Pro tip: wait 5–10 minutes post-show for easier pickup access.

Public Transit

Don’t feel like driving? Hop on the free KC Streetcar, which runs from Union Station to the River Market and drops you just a few blocks from either venue. It’s clean, reliable, and a local favorite. RideKC buses also service the downtown area and can connect you from surrounding neighborhoods to the theater district with ease.

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Dining Near the Theater District

Upscale Spots

Looking to turn theater night into a full evening affair? Book a table at The Savoy, where history meets elegance and cocktails are practically an art form. Or head to Corvino Supper Club—live music, moody lighting, and a seasonal menu make it the ultimate pre-show indulgence.

Mid-Range Favorites

Extra Virgin is a go-to for tapas and wine lovers—perfect for sharing plates before curtain. For Southern flair with a modern twist, Lula Southern Cookhouse serves up comforting mains just a short walk from the Music Hall.

Fast Casual & Quick Bites

In a rush? Grab a quick, satisfying meal at Mildred’s (killer sandwiches and strong coffee) or The Mixx (salads, bowls, and wraps for all tastes). Both offer fast service and solid portions without weighing you down before the show.

Family-Friendly Dining

Bringing the crew? BRGR Kitchen + Bar and Pizza 51 hit the sweet spot for families—fun, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing. They’re kid-friendly without feeling like a fast-food stop, and you’ll be within walking distance of the venue.

Pre-Show Timing Tips

Planning a sit-down meal? Make reservations at least an hour and a half before showtime to avoid the “check please” panic. Most restaurants near the theaters are used to the curtain rush—just let them know you’ve got tickets when you’re seated.

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What to Wear to a Broadway Show in Kansas City

Kansas City blends cool and casual better than most cities—so you’ll see everything from dressy denim to full-on glam. There’s no official dress code, but a little effort goes a long way in matching the occasion.

• Matinees: Smart casual is perfect—think sundresses, polos, neat jeans, or jumpsuits. It’s theater with daytime flair.
• Evening Shows: Step it up a notch with cocktail dresses, blazers, or a button-down with dress boots. It’s date-night energy without the tux.

Seasonal tip: Winters can get icy, and summer storms like to surprise. Layer wisely and always bring a compact umbrella just in case. If you’re walking from dinner or parking garages, comfortable shoes with a dressy edge are a lifesaver—especially if you’re dealing with hills or heels.

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Is Broadway in Kansas City Family-Friendly?

Best Shows for Young Audiences

Kansas City hosts plenty of shows that are great for kids and tweens. Titles like Aladdin, Frozen, Bluey’s Big Play, and Matilda are ideal entry points for young theatergoers. They’re colorful, upbeat, and often include familiar characters or songs.

Venue Policies on Child Admission

Generally, children under the age of 2 are not admitted, and all guests—regardless of age—must have a ticket. Most shows recommend an age range in the description, so be sure to check before booking. Some matinees may be more lenient for family audiences.

Booster Seats & Short Runtimes

Both the Music Hall and Kauffman Center offer booster seats on a first-come, first-served basis. If your child has a short attention span, opt for shows under two hours or those with intermissions to break things up. Early shows are usually more kid-friendly in length and tone.

Noise, Snacks & Comfort Tips

Theaters are quiet—on purpose. Talk to your kids ahead of time about being still, staying quiet, and clapping at the right times. Snacks aren’t usually allowed inside the auditorium, but you can grab treats during intermission. Bring layers too—it’s not uncommon for venues to be cooler than expected.

Explore Broadway in Other Cities

Broadway in Kansas City: Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring food or large bags into the Music Hall?

Food is typically not allowed inside the auditorium, though concessions are available in the lobby. Bags larger than 12×6×12 inches are subject to search or restriction—small clear bags are safer. It’s best to check the specific rules for each show.

When do doors open and when should I arrive?

Doors generally open about 45 minutes before showtime. Aim to arrive early to park, get concessions, and find your seat without rushing.

Is there a dress code?

There’s no formal dress code—Kansas City leans casual-cool. A blazer or dressier outfit is appreciated for evening shows, though jeans and a nice shirt are always fine.

How do I access digital or mobile tickets?

Kansas City Broadway Series uses digital ticketing—tickets are sent via email or text and can be scanned from your phone. Keep your brightness up and your QR code ready at entry.

Is the Music Hall accessible?

Absolutely! The venue includes wheelchair seating, elevators, and assisted listening devices. Let the box office know if you need accommodations when purchasing.

Can I exchange tickets or get refunds?

All tickets are final sale—no refunds. However, season subscribers often enjoy exchange privileges for the same show date (subject to availability). Be sure to confirm early via the ticket office or subscriber portal.