Here are ten great things to do in Kansas City this weekend, March 7-10, including: MAMMA MIA!, Planet Comicon and Roméo et Juliette.
Mamma Mia!
One of the most popular musicals of all time, Mamma Mia!, written by British playwright Catherine Johnson, is based on songs recorded by Swedish pop supergroup ABBA and composed by members Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus. On a mythical Greek island, the story centers around Sophie, who dreams of her father giving her away at the altar on her wedding day. Heartwarming hilarity ensues as Sophie tries to find out who her real father is before getting married the next day.
March 5–9, 7:30 pm; March 10, 6:30 pm. Kansas City Music Hall.
How to Clone a Mammoth: The Science of De-Extinction
Linda Hall Library presents “How to Clone a Mammoth: The Science of De-Extinction” as the second guest lecture in a three-part series complementing the free exhibition, “Chained to the Sky: The Science of Birds, Past & Future.” In this lecture, evolutionary molecular biologist, professor and award-winning author Dr. Beth Shapiro examines the extraordinary cutting-edge science that is being used to resurrect the past.
March 7. 7 pm. Linda Hall Library.
Flogging Molly
Seven-piece Celtic punk band Flogging Molly formed in Los Angeles nearly 30 years ago. Led by Irish vocalist Dave King, the band gained popularity through their rowdy anti-establishment Irish sound and songs like “Drunken Lullabies” and “Devil’s Dance Floor.” Flogging Molly is opened by neofolk songwriter, guitar and banjo player Amigo the Devil.
March 8. 7 pm. Uptown Theater.
Stanislav & Friends
Held annually during Spring in the Kauffman Center, this a rare opportunity to experience the magnificence of the International Center for Music’s award-winning artists performing virtuoso Stanislav Ioudenitch’s iconic work in Stanislav & Friends. Ioudenitch and Behzod Abduraimov come together to perform Francis Poulenc’s “Concerto for Two Pianos and Orchestra,” which is celebrated for its harmonically rich and colorful melodies infused with wit and lyricism. The piece remains one of his most enduring and celebrated. There will also be an opportunity to meet the performers in a dessert reception immediately following the performance.
March 8. 7 pm. Helzberg Hall.
Whiskey Dynamite
The electrifying show Whiskey Dynamite is captivating audiences with explosive performances and an engaging cast. This interactive multimedia performance blends acrobatics, fun costuming, immersive visuals and live music, with Kansas City’s own innovative performance art collective, Quixotic, to bring audiences a unique multi-sensory, sexy and celebratory experience.
March 8 & 9, 14–16, 22 & 23, 29 & 30. April 5 & 6, 11–13. Times vary. The Grand Theater (at Crown Center).
Planet Comicon
Planet Comicon Kansas City is the largest comic book and pop culture convention in the Midwest. This year, its 25th anniversary, will feature celebrity guests like Henry Winkler and Neve Campbell on panels, along with exhibit halls, meet and greets, contests and more for fans of almost anything and everything.
March 8–10. Times vary. Kansas City Convention Center.
Blackberry Smoke
Atlanta-based Southern rock band Blackberry Smoke has been on the scene for over two decades, evolving from a rough-edged club act to an arena-ready rock ‘n’ roll powerhouse. Performing over 250 shows a year, Blackberry Smoke is making their annual stop in KC.
March 9. 7 pm. Uptown Theater.
Iconic Masters: Bird, Weather Report & More
The Kansas City Jazz Orchestra presents Iconic Masters: Bird, Weather Report & More, featuring Grammy Award-winning pianist and composer John Beasley. Beasley represents the many facets of jazz music, playing his own arrangements of Charlie Parker, Duke Ellington and more alongside a vibrant big band.
March 9. 8 pm. Helzberg Hall.
Roméo et Juliette
The Lyric Opera of Kansas City presents Roméo et Juliette, Shakespeare’s classic tragedy of star-crossed lovers. The drama is heightened by giving it the French grand opera treatment with composer Charles Gounod’s adaptation, which follows the centuries-old tale alongside the expansive score, gorgeous sets and period costumes.
March 9 & 15, 7:30 pm; March 17, 2 pm. Muriel Kauffman Theatre.
Around the World in 80 Days
The Kansas City Symphony presents the 1872 French adventure by writer Jules Verne, Around the World in 80 Days. The symphony, along with local theater artist Alex Espy, presents this engaging adaptation of a riveting classic whose story spans the globe. The classic is reimagined for the stage through innovative sets, refreshed storytelling, puppetry and a curated collection of symphonic favorites.
March 10. 2 pm. Helzberg Hall.
