The J Love Band elicits a gamut of audience reactions. At Stock Hill Restaurant and Parkway Social Kitchen, expect rhythmic head nodding; at The Phoenix,..

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.

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.”