Author: Rebecca Smith

Artist to Watch: Katie Karel
In 2015 the British actress Carey Mulligan won raves and a Tony nomination for her role as Kyra in David Hare’s “Skylight,” chronicling the heartrending interplay of two former lovers reunited following the death of the man’s wife. This May, Kansas City audiences will be able to see local actress Katie Karel reprise the role of Kyra in the Kansas City Actors Theatre production of Hare’s award-winning play.

Arts News: A Bigger, Better Musical Theater Heritage
Heading into its 16th season, Musical Theater Heritage is in growth mode. Specializing in productions of American musicals, the Crown Center-based theater company has been a popular presence in Kansas City since its founding in 2003. And no wonder. There’s a show for every taste, with the typical season offering one or two “heritage” musicals, as well as a couple of less well-known or untraditional shows like “Next to Normal” and “Sunday in the Park with George.”

Artist to Watch: Julia Haile
Julia Haile is taking Kansas City by storm. “Her voice and stage presence are second to none, and her body of work is growing to be some of the best to come out of this city,” said Bill Sundahl, special events coordinator of KKFI 90.1 FM Kansas City Community Radio. Haile performed with well-known singer-songwriter Barclay Martin at the June 30 “Collaborations” fundraiser event for KKFI at the Folly Theater.