Brandmeyer Great Hall is a blank canvas for galas, wedding receptions and numerous other stunning events like the Kansas City Symphony’s Firebird Ball in 2019 (pictured). (photo by Eric Williams)
The Kansas City skyline would not be complete without the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts. This iconic landmark hosts world-class performances year-round from artists like Martina McBride, Black Violin, Los Tigres del Norte, Pink Martini and many more. However, you may not know that there are many events, besides performances, that take place each year in one-of-a-kind spaces throughout the Center.
Since its opening, the Kauffman Center has hosted more than 1,100 catered events with over 150,000 attendees. Each space has a unique layout that highlights the Center’s stunning architecture and presents a blank canvas to the guest, waiting to be personalized. Host an event for two or 1,800; no matter the event size, the Kauffman Center’s team works to provide memorable experiences every time. The Center can be rented for non-profit galas, corporate events, weddings, private culinary experiences and so much more. The possibilities are endless to tailor an unforgettable experience. Learn more about event spaces at the Kauffman Center below:
Brandmeyer Great Hall is a beautiful, open space that features a four-level wall of glass, overlooking Kansas City to the south. Complete with breathtaking views, this space holds up to 450 seated guests or up to 1,000 guests for cocktail reception events.
Muriel Kauffman Theatre is an enclosed European-style theatre with a 5,000 square- foot stage which accommodates up to 300 guests for a seated meal. The stage can be used for onstage experiences or for large- or small-scale presentations with the addition of our 40 feet by 40 feet screen.
Helzberg Hall features a custom designed organ with 5,548 pipes, from world-renowned pipe organ builders Casavant Frères. With the Julia Irene Kauffman Casavant Organ, Opus 3875 as a visual centerpiece, Helzberg Hall is a unique location for presentations, intimate onstage receptions and dining experiences. This space has a capacity of 1,600 seated for a performance or 80 seated onstage for a culinary event.
The Balconies sit under the glass curtain wall, overlooking Brandmeyer Great Hall and the beautiful Kansas City skyline. The largest balcony holds up to 100 seated guests or 75 to 300 guests for a reception-style event using multiple balconies.
The Founders’ Lounge is home to The Dining Experience, our pre-performance restaurant that features artisan handcrafted cocktails and award-winning, exquisite cuisine. This space has room for 65 seated guests or 125 guests for a reception-style event and is perfect for private dinners or meetings.
All event planning is customized to the specific needs of each occasion and our event services include setup and teardown, event management staff and catering by the Kauffman Center’s award-winning Executive Chef Laura Comer. Chef Comer is known for creating American classics with a modern twist. Each event receives personalized culinary and experience planning created by Chef Comer and the special events team.
“I just wanted to say THANK YOU for assisting us with creating such a memorable experience for our Board of Directors’ Holiday Celebration last night. The event was definitely a success, and that is thanks to your amazing team. The food was delicious, the atmosphere is second to none and most importantly, your staff are all wonderful,” said recent client Lauren R. “Many guests made comments about how helpful and courteous the ushers, greeters and security were in helping get to the right location, and we greatly appreciate it. Again, many thanks for a great evening.”
“The outstanding customer service at the Kauffman Center helped make our event in Helzberg Hall an overwhelming success. The events team was engaged and collaborative from the initial concept through the end of the event. Their ideas, enthusiasm and willingness to go the extra mile are unparalleled!” said Gina G.
Jill M., who recently rented a balcony space, said, “The event was AMAZING! The seventh- floor balcony worked beautifully and was an impressive space for our guests. We had plenty of room with the layout of the tables, and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Our compliments to Chef Comer as well. Thank you!”
For pricing, booking and more information about Kauffman Center event rentals, visit kauffmancenter.org/specialevents, call 816.994.7213 or email events@kauffmancenter.org.
–Sophie Misle
