The Kansas City Starlight Theatre

The Kansas City Starlight theatre dates back to the 1920’s. Interested in creating a theatre “under the stars,” the Kansas City Federation of Music raised money from the 1926 visit of Queen Marie of Romania to Kansas City to start a city trust for some type of outdoor stage.

In 1930, the Kansas City Chamber of Commerce arranged a week-long performance of the German Grand Opera. Over 55,000 people attended.

After years of debate and consideration, in 1947 the outdoor theatre proposal became a part of the city’s bond issue. While the theatre was low on the city’s list of priorities, the upcoming ceremony celebrating Kansas City’s 100th birthday added urgency. In December 1949, construction began on what we now know to be Starlight Theatre.

In the early years, Starlight’s seasons consisted of ten shows that included a mixture of operettas, light opera, and new musical comedies recently written for the Broadway stage.

By 1962, the number of shows were cut down to eight each season with three shows having a two-week run.

The early 70’s offered variety shows only. But, due to audience demand, it was determined that musicals should make a reappearance on the Starlight stage. By 1976, the season included a total of eight musicals similar to seasons of the past.

Today, Starlight’s season consists of a total of five Broadway style shows, both co-produced shows as well as national tours.

This summer’s season features the Will Rogers Follies, Beauty and the Beast, Thoroughly Modern Millie, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Starlight Express, and The Sound of Music.

Larry Gatlin stars in the Will Rogers Follies, a musical revue in which he bring the legendary Will Rogers to life with his portrayal of the man famous for saying, “I never met a man I didn’t like.”

It is a light hearted look at the life and times of of Will Rogers, whose career touched all aspects of entertainment -- from Vaudeville and Broadway to radio, concert halls and the big screen.

Starting the show in the saddle, Gatlin strives to recreate the feeling of the Ziegfeld Follies of the 1920’s.

Fine costumes, an expansive staircase set, and the work of the light crew make this musical enjoyable.

Nominated for nine 1994 Tony Awards including Best Musical, Disney’s Beatury and the Beast is a treat on the Starlight stage.

Based on the animated classic, it brings music, lights, costumes, and a revolving set together to create an unforgetable engagement.

This year’s season at Starlight promises to uphold the standard at one of Kansas City’s premiere venues.

For ticket information call (816) 363-7827 or visit: www.kcstarlight.com