Spring is in full swing in Kansas City and bringing with it a fresh lineup of inspiring cultural arts experiences. Experience everything from contemporary art exhibitions and live music to dance performances and benefit art auctions. Musical theater also takes center stage, offering magical performances that will delight audiences of all ages. Mark your calendar, gather your friends and family and explore the vibrant arts scene throughout Kansas City and the surrounding area this spring.
THE WIZARD OF OZ Coming Soon to KCRep’s Spencer Theatre!
Journey to the magical land of Oz in KCRep’s enchanting stage adaptation of THE WIZARD OF OZ in collaboration with PigPen Theatre Co. With dazzling costumes, stunning sets, and timeless songs like “Over the Rainbow” and “We’re Off to See the Wizard,” this beloved classic comes to life in a spectacular production for audiences of all ages. Performances begin May 5 at KCRep’s Spencer Theatre! Get your tickets at kcrep.org.
Participate in programs at the Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art
The Nerman Museum hosts a variety of programs year-round, including artists talk, hands-on workshops, youth art classes and more. Explore their Spring programming, with highlights including The Salon for Possible Futures series (year-round), an artist talk with Michael Brantley and Harold Smith (March 22), and a panel with the creators of Trespassers Beware! (April 2).
The Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain Returns to MTC
While it is not normally in the nature of these artists to “blow their own trumpets,” or in this case – to “pluck their own ukuleles” – it is undeniably a fact that The Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain has become not only a national institution, but also a worldwide phenomenon. The world tour with only hand luggage returns to the Midwest Trust Center for their sixth appearance April 18 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $25.
The Coterie Stages a Musical Love Letter to Reading
The Coterie presents Lilly and the Pirates, a fun and funny swashbuckling musical adventure that will inspire a love of books and reading in all ages. Lilly is a ten-year-old worrywart, so when her globe-trotting scientist-parents become shipwrecked while searching for a rare fruit fly, Lilly must overcome her fear of the sea, find the hidden island and outsmart a bunch of treasure-hungry pirates to save them. Live at The Coterie March 24 – May 3.
History, Photography, Dance Unite in Störling Dance Theater’s “Dorothea’s Lens”
“Dorothea’s Lens” brings to life the Great Depression-era photographs of Dorothea Lange, highlighting the strength of the human spirit and portraying the impact Lange’s work had on the nation. “Dorothea’s Lens” beautifully weaves together history, photography, dance, period costumes, found sets and props and even original music to tell inspiring stories of resilience. This production has something for everyone! The premiere of “Dorothea’s Lens” on April 10-11 kicks off Störling Dance Theater’s 30th anniversary season.
ARTPOP 2026: Experience Immersive Art at the Kansas City Art Institute
Join us on May 7 for the Kansas City Art Institute patron preview celebrating the Spring End of Semester Exhibition + Sale. Enjoy a progressive party with curated bites and cocktails as you explore studios, connect with students and faculty and view and purchase exceptional student work. Experience POPTRA, an electrifying showcase of student-designed costumes and performance art, along with other dynamic campus installations—only at ARTPOP.
SNAPSHOTS OF AMERICA 250: A Walk–Through History Weekend!
Celebrate America’s 250th Birthday with a once-in-a-lifetime event at Shawnee Town 1929 Museum! Explore scenes from across 250 years of American history, told by expert reenactors, historians, military drills, animals, crafts and more! Learn unique stories about our nation’s origins and the many different peoples and experiences that make us who we are. Admission is FREE with “goodwill donations encouraged”. Saturday and Sunday, May 2–3 from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. www.ShawneeTown.org
Art for Art: A Benefit Art Auction for the Folly Theater
On April 26 from 1-4 p.m., participating artists and interested patrons are invited to walk on the historic Folly stage to browse and bid on over 180 art pieces. The Ben Tervort Trio will be performing live jazz music from one of the iconic Folly box seats. Tickets are $10 for entry and include light hors d’oeuvres, mimosas, wine and soft drinks while you browse and bid! Art For Art highlights how visual arts help support and elevate the performing arts, fostering a connected creative community and bringing together local and regional artists in meaningful ways.