Here are ten things to do in KC this weekend, January 5-8, including Uptown Nights at the Kauffman Center, Elvis’ Birthday Bash, and a special screening of The Big Lebowski at Screenland Armour.
Evergy Festival of Lights at Powell Gardens
This unique festive outdoor experience follows a 1-mile walk through Powell Gardens’ immersive, botanically inspired light installations. It has been extended into the New Year for anyone wishing to have a more quiet and reflective experience in the light structures. The tiki bar, cafe, and warming stations will still be available so that everyone who visits can still enjoy the full winter wonderland experience.
January 5–8. 4–10 pm. Powell Gardens.
Uptown Nights
Guest conductor Byron Stripling has been called a “powerhouse trumpeter gifted with a soulful voice and a charismatic onstage swagger.” In this show, he transports audiences back to the heyday of jazz, performing with nostalgic reverence that mirrors a sound more apt for Harlem clubs with legends like Duke Ellington and Ella Fitzgerald.
January 6–7, 8 pm; January 8, 2 pm. The Kauffman Center.
Corey Holcomb
Chicago based comedian and radio host Corey Holcomb got his start in comedy in the early nineties with the help of another Chicago-area comedian, Godfrey. After decades doing stand up tours and a slew of straight-to-video movies, he currently hosts his own YouTube show and still does the comedy circuit, performing his tried and true bits about the differences between men and women’s communication styles.
January 6. 7:30 & 10:15 pm. January 7. 7 & 9:45 pm. Improv Comedy Club.
Genevieve Flynn
Silversmith Genevieve Flynn’s work reflects the sensuous feel of the Art Nouveau era along with mixing in surprising elements from nature. She uses ancient metal techniques, from repoussé to engraving, to add rich detail into pieces that will be displayed, worn or used somehow by clients in their everyday life.
January 6–February 28. Belger Crane Yard Studios.
80s Music Bingo at KC Wine Co.
This local, picturesque winery invites you to brave the cold and experience some of the best wines and ciders the area has to offer. Now holding activities inside their heated cidery barn, there will be snacks and drink specials offered along with a fun game to test your music knowledge (or age).
January 7. 2–5 pm. KC Wine Co.
Live Polka with Bram Wijnands
KC fave, KC Bier Co., is serving up authentic German-style bier, Bavarian pretzels and sausages in their Biergarten while Bram Wijands and other special guests play live polka and German drinking songs to transport guests to the old country.
January 7. 3–5 pm. KC Bier Co. Bierhalle at KC Bier Co.
Pretty Yende
Born in a small town in South Africa, soprano Pretty Yende has quickly risen to the top of the opera world with her powerhouse vocals and magnetic performances, playing in some of the most prestigious stages of the world, like the Royal Opera House. Now on a US tour, she is making her debut in KC with the Harriman Jewell Series’ celebration of their one-thousandth performance, which will also be part of their annual gala event in the newly remodeled Folly Theater.
January 7. 6 pm. Folly Theater.
In Halen: A tribute to Van Halen
This show is in tribute to the music of rock icon Eddie Van Halen, featuring cover band K-Audic and the “guitar wizardry” of Freddie Francis to transport audiences to a time where the rock was guitar-heavy and the hair was big.
January 7. 7 pm. Aztec Shawnee Theater.
Elvis Birthday Bash
Come celebrate what would’ve been the King of Rock ‘n Roll’s eighty-eighth birthday with an assortment of impersonators performing all the hits. Grab your aviators, jumpsuit and probiotics and join the rockabilly party.
January 7. 8 pm. Knuckleheads.
The Big Lebowski
The Dude is back to rescue his beloved rug with his bowling teammates and try to not get killed by nihilistic Austrians. This Coen Brothers cult classic returns to one of the best spots in the city to see films new and old, Screenland Armour. Wear your comfiest robe and grab a white russian.
January 7. 9:30 pm. Screenland Armour.
