Here are fourteen great things to do in KC this weekend, September 14-17, including performances by: Rob Zombie & Alice Cooper, Fantasia and Dave Chappelle.
Renaissance Festival
Step back in time and immerse yourself in the captivating world of the KC Renaissance Festival. What started as a small benefit for the Kansas City Art Institute in 1977 has blossomed into one of the country’s most celebrated Renaissance events, drawing 200,000 visitors each year. This festival aims to transport attendees to a bygone era with live performances, unique merchandise, giant turkey legs and men in tights.
September 2–October 15. Times vary. 130th Street, Bonner Springs.
Cyrano de Bergerac
Kicking off KCRep’s sixtieth anniversary season is Cyrano de Bergerac. Based on the 1897 play of the same name written by Edmond Rostand, it has been adapted by Martin Crimp and directed by Nelson T. Eusebio III. The play follows the timeless tale of the protagonist Cyrano, who involves himself in a touching and hilarious love triangle as he is torn between physical attraction and the power of prose.
September 5–24. Times vary. Spencer Theatre.
Chef Jeff Workman at Getaway Ozark Highlands
Getaway, the company that offers mindful escapes to tiny cabins in nature, is offering an elevated experience for the community at Getaway Ozark Highlands with local KC Chef, Jeff Workman of uber-popular restaurant and bar, The Campground. Getaway offers a delicious community meal from Chef Jeff Workman, including specialty cocktails and mocktails, and in the following days, guests will have the opportunity to participate in unique experiences, including a candle making class, courtesy of Embers Candle Bar.
September 12–14. Getaway Ozark Highlands.
Skeleton Crew
Kansas City Actors Theatre presents Skeleton Crew, a powerful drama written by 2018 MacArthur Fellow Dominique Morisseau. Set during the 2008 recession, the play delves into the lives of Detroit auto plant workers facing uncertain futures. With echoes of Arthur Miller, Morisseau’s deeply moral storytelling offers a poignant exploration of resilience and community in the face of adversity.
September 12–October 1. Times vary. City Stage Theatre at Union Station.
The Kansas City Underground Film Festival
The Kansas City Underground Film Festival has been bringing attention to independent filmmakers for nearly half a decade. The festival accepts films in every genre, emphasizing low-budget (or no-budget) films from countries across the world.
September 13–23. Times, dates and locations vary.
Rob Zombie & Alice Cooper
98.9s’s Rock The Dotte presents this special concert from Rob Zombie and Alice Cooper. Zombie has developed a cult-like following throughout the early 2000’s with his songwriting, theatrical shows, and horror-sci-fi directing and acting. Rock legend Alice Cooper joins.
September 15. 6:30 pm. Azura Amphitheater.
New Dance Partners Festival
The New Dance Partners festival returns for its tenth edition with the debut of four original works. Exceptional choreographers collaborate with four local dance companies—The Kansas City Ballet, Owen/Cox Dance Group, Störling Dance Theatre and Wylliams/Henry Contemporary Dance Company—to unveil an enchanting showcase of contemporary and modern dance.
September 15–16. 8 pm. Yardley Hall.
Blue Springs Fall Fun Festival
The 54th Annual Blue Springs Fall Fun Festival returns to the heart of Blue Springs with the theme “Walk on the Wild Side.” This free, three-day family-friendly event features a parade, artisanal vendors, a carnival, live music performances on multiple stages, festival foods, a car show and more wholesome fun.
September 15–17. Times vary. 1000 W. Main Street, Blue Springs.
Jesse James Festival
The fifty-second Jesse James Festival celebrating the life of the local legend and outlaw takes place in Kearney, Missouri, James’ birthplace, boyhood home and final resting place. Amid artifacts and DNA testing, the festival commemorates an era that shaped the nation.
September 15–17. Times vary. Jesse James Park, Kearney.
Audra McDonald with the Kansas City Symphony
Six-time Tony Award-winner Audra McDonald joins the Kansas City Symphony with guest conductor Andy Einhorn for an evening of awe-inspiring vocals. McDonald is a soprano with a talent for animated storytelling, putting her own spins on Broadway classics and contemporary musical theater songs.
September 15–17. Times vary. Helzberg Hall.
Uncorked: KC Wine Fest
KC’s annual Uncorked Wine Festival is back for its seventh year, with the event benefiting local nonprofit the KC Jazz Alive. There will be over one hundred different wines and bubbles from around the world, along with local food trucks and vendors, a photo booth and a live DJ. Early and general admission tickets are available, with the former including an extra hour of time for smaller group tastings and exclusive pours from select wineries.
September 16. 5–9 pm. Union Station.
Waldo Festival
The Waldo Fall Festival is back for its thirty-first year to celebrate family fun in one of KC’s cutest neighborhoods. Enjoy all things Waldo with rides, games, live music, local vendors, children’s activities like face painting, food trucks and more.
September 16. 10 am–8 pm. Waldo (Gregory Boulevard & Wornall Road).
Fantasia
American Idol season three winner Fantasia brings her R&B prowess to KC with soulful ballads like “When I See U” and “Bittersweet,” which reflect her outlook on tackling life’s challenges with strength.
September 17. 7 pm. Starlight Theatre.
Dave Chappelle Live!
The edgy comedian is touring the country with his live stand-up comedy routine.
September 17. 7:30 pm. T-Mobile Center.
