Here are eleven things to do in KC this weekend, January 30—February 2, including Anthony McGill and Emanuel Ax Duo Recital, Live+Local and New Moves.
Just Ask!
Based on the book written by Supreme Court justice Sonia Sotomayor, Just Ask! is a heartwarming, family-friendly musical about the power of curiosity. The story follows young people of varying abilities as they work to create a garden. Sonia, a newcomer to the group, is hesitant to share something personal about herself and hopes her new friends will accept her. Co-produced by the Coterie Theater and What if Puppets, this performance run marks the world premiere of the musical.
January 29—February 23. Times vary. Coterie Theater.
Anthony McGill and Emanuel Ax Duo Recital
Clarinetist Anthony McGill and pianist Emanuel Ax are A-list celebrities of the classical music world. Hailed for his “trademark brilliance” by the New York Times, McGill is the principal clarinet for the New York Philharmonic—the first Black principal player in the orchestra’s history. Ax is best known for his collaborations with cellist Yo-Yo Ma and as a featured performer with major orchestras across the globe. Presented by the Harriman-Jewell Series, the duo will present an evening of classic works and cutting-edge compositions.
January 31. 7 pm. Folly Theater.
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone in Concert
Transport yourself to the wizarding world with a visit to the symphony. At Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone in Concert, the Kansas City Symphony will perform John Williams’ iconic soundtrack in tandem with a live screening of the series’ inaugural film. Year after year, the Harry Potter movie screenings have become one of the orchestra’s most popular performances, enchanting audiences of all ages.
January 29—February 1. Times vary. Helzberg Hall.
Parade
Based on a true story, the popular musical Parade follows Jewish newlyweds Leo and Lucille Frank. After Leo is accused of a violent crime, the couple grapples with prejudice and injustice while living in Georgia in the early 20th century. Although the production made its Broadway debut in 1998, Parade won a 2023 Tony Award for Best Revival of a Musical.
January 28—February 2. Times vary. Muriel Kauffman Theatre.
Ceramic Valentines
Spread the love and get in touch with your creative side at Cherry Pit Collective’s Ceramic Valentines workshop. Price of admission to the class––which will teach beginner techniques to build one-of-a-kind valentines by hand––also includes clay, glaze and firing at the Midtown studio.
February 2. 10 am. Cherry Pit Collective.
Brewhouse One Mexican Xocolatl Ale Release Party
Boulevard Brewing Company is celebrating the launch of their chocolatey beer, Brewhouse One Mexican Xocolatl Ale. The beverage’s rich flavor profile––inspired by Café Ollama’s Abuelita Lupe beverage––features Abuelita chocolate, piloncillo, cinnamon sticks, cloves and Yahualica peppers. In addition to pours of the new brew, the release party will include music from Making Movies’ Juan-Carlos Chaurand and a free Loteria Happy Hour hosted by KCK designer DINKC.
January 31. 5––9 pm. Boulevard Tours and Rec Center.
Sensatia
Kansas City-born and internationally renowned performance art collective Quixotic brings an interactive multimedia performance this winter. Blending acrobatics, futuristic visuals, live music, and perfumery, Sensatia promises a wildly unique sensory experience. This weekend marks the opening weekend of the original production.
January 24—March 29. Times vary. The Grand Theater (at Crown Center).
Live+Local
Shining a light on the KC bands that are applying to NPR’s Tiny Desk Contest, Live+Local is a showcase for independent and undiscovered artists. A partnership between NPR stations KCUR 89.3 and The Bridge 90.9, the performance will feature self-described “elevated folk freaks” True Lions and twangy indie-rock band Big Fat Cow.
January 30. 6:30 pm. KCUR Studios, 4825 Troost Ave., KCMO.
New Moves
New Moves offers an intimate look at fresh, innovative works in contemporary ballet. Featuring creations by Kansas City Ballet’s resident and guest choreographers, the program showcases the future of dance in an up-close setting.
January 30—February 2. Times vary. Todd Bolender Center for Dance and Creativity.
Fourscore
KC classical-crossover ensemble Fourscore blends classical stylings with pop hits, akin to the soundtrack of Netflix’s Bridgerton. The string quartet will perform a captivating and dynamic mix of covers and cutting-edge originals at Midtown’s miniBar.
February 2. 7 pm. miniBar.
Snow Creek
No need to head to the mountains to go skiing—enjoy the slopes at Snow Creek. Located just outside of Weston on the scenic Missouri River bluffs, the 25-acre resort offers skiing, snowboarding and tubing throughout the season, or for as long as temps stay below freezing.
January 9—March. Times vary. 1 Snow Creek Dr, Weston, MO.
