Say “hello” to Kansas City’s new home for the arts. | Rendering by Helix Architecture, via UMKC
UMKC is hitting a high note with plans for a major expansion to its renowned Conservatory — announced with flair at the recent “Crescendo in Concert” performance at the Kauffman Center.
This sleek, 35,000-sqft addition to the Olson Performing Arts Center will put student talent center stage, elevate community programming, and amplify enrollment by as much as 40%.
But the Conservatory’s expansion isn’t just about sleek design — it’s a strategic step to boost UMKC’s reputation, particularly in dance and theater. It’ll also support a new minor in integrated performing arts, inviting students from across disciplines to join the act.
What’s in it for you
You don’t have to be a student to benefit. Kansas Citians will enjoy expanded access to performances, plus stronger community connections through school outreach programs, public masterclasses, and professional training for local arts educators.
Mobile Music Box Concert | 6 p.m. | Roanoke Park | Free | Ditch your opera glasses and pull up a lawn chair for a KC Symphony performance pairing lush, late spring greenery with moving music.
Wednesday, May 7
KCRC Brew Crew Group Runs | 6:30 p.m. | The Running Well Store | Free | Find your perfect run club fit with an all-paces-welcome, three-mile jaunt + top off your evening accomplishment with a friendly drink at Rockcreek Brewing Co.
Thursday, May 8
Battle Buddies Yappy Hour | 5-8 p.m. | Bar K | $30 | Bring your pack for a paw-fect day featuring a pet fashion show, caricature artist, and puppy massages, as well as a stellar drink menu and live music for the two-legged among us — plus, proceeds benefit Veterans Community Project.
Trivia Night: Tolkien Edition | 6:30 p.m. | National WWI Museum and Memorial | $25 | Indulge in Shire-inspired refreshments, flaunt your best Middle-earth attire, and test your knowledge on the life and works of WWI veteran and author J. R. R. Tolkien to win precious prizes.
Heirloom Recipe Pie Plate Workshop | 6:30-8:30 p.m. | Creative Culture, Westport | $78 | Learn how to transfer a handwritten recipe onto a ceramic piece of your choice and bring home a new favorite heirloom.
Friday, May 9
Taylor Tomlinson | 7 p.m. | Arvest Bank Theatre at the Midland | $129+ | With her own late night show and three Netflix stand-up specials under her belt, prepare for an evening of sharp wit and relatable humor from one of comedy’s rising stars.
Saturday, May 10
Puppy Yoga for Mother’s Day | 11 a.m.-12 p.m. | Turnsol Books | $34 | The benefits of this adorable mind/body workout are twofold: you get to unwind with a relaxing yoga sesh and the adoptable pups learn socials skills while playing around.
Beyond the Mushroom Ring: A Faerie High Tea | 4-7 p.m. | Vintage House, Overland Park, KS | $60 | Enter the realm in your finest faerie attire and be treated to professional photos of the magical evening, featuring indulgent hors d’oeuvres from The Stuffed Mushroom and handpicked trinkets from OmniFeral.
Heart Of America 200 | 6:30 p.m. | Kansas Speedway, KCK | $35+ | Watch these drivers go bumper-to-bumper in a thrilling display of speed and skill.
Raise a cup to 1888 Coffee, Hyde Park’s newest caffeine fix taking over the old Mother Earth Coffee spot at Armour + Gillham on Saturday, May 24. Expect familiar vibes — Parisi beans, Wi-Fi-ready seating, indoor/outdoor tables — plus kid-friendly perks, thanks to the young family of regulars-turned-owners. (Kansas City Star)
Opening
After three years of construction, major renovations on the National WWI Museum and Memorial will debut on Friday, May 23. Experience its latest exhibit, “Encounters” — a dive into 16 intimate first-person accounts — and explore 14 new interactive screens, three new films, updated trenches, and an authentic replica field hospital, among other upgrades.
Plan Ahead
May is Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month — and KC’s celebration calendar is stacked. One highlight? Don’t miss the 5th Annual AANHPI Heritage Festival, a crowd favorite (and KCtoday editor favorite) returning with food, performances, and cultural showcases galore. (The Pitch)
Civic
ICYMI, Kansas City’s rideshare program IRIS will continue as usual... for now. Despite emergency funding efforts following a rocky budget approval process, City Council voted to end the service (which started in 2023) before reversing the decision hours later last week. (FOX4)
Try This
While we wait for the expanded conservatory, let Strings on The Green whisk you away... ahem, a few blocks over. The annual concert series returns Wednesday, May 7 through Sept. 27, bringing top jazz artists to the Raphael Hotel’s lawn. Grab a cocktail from Chaz’s, soak up Plaza sunsets, and enjoy a midweek mini escape.
Outdoors
ICYMI, May is National Bike Month — and we’re wheelie excited for Kansas Citians to experience cycling in our community. From the breeze in your face to the boost in your mood, you feel your best on a bike. Pro tip:Check out these bike-related resources, stories, and events.*
Travel
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Looking for a weekend pick? It’s prime outdoor art show season, and I’m a sucker for a sunny stroll through the Lenexa Art Fair — think regional art, food trucks, and live jazz, all set against the backdrop of its growing city center. Perfect for a laid-back afternoon browse.
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