Here are ten things to do in KC this weekend, November 6—9 including Thundergong, The Kansas City Current Quarterfinal Match and Tower Con.
Carnival of the Animals
Composer Camille Saint-Saëns’ whimsical orchestral suite Carnival of the Animals takes the stage at Helzberg Hall. With movements that personify graceful swans, majestic lions and more, this playful, circus-inspired work is an ideal introduction to classical music for young audiences. This performance is a part of the Kansas City Symphony’s family series.
November 9. 2 pm. Helzberg Hall.
Thundergong
Jason Sudeikis and longtime friend Billy Brimblecom Jr. band together for this rock ‘n’ roll variety show and charity bash. In support of Brimblecom’s non-profit Steps of Faith Foundation, Thundergong raises funds to help provide prosthetic limbs to amputees. Expect appearances from Ted Lasso actor Brendan Hunt, former SNL cast member Will Forte, KC’s own singer-songwriter Kevin Morby and more.
November 8. 7:30 pm. Uptown Theatre.
The Kansas City Current Quarterfinal Match
KC, Baby! The Kansas City Current will host the first NWSL Playoff match and play right here on their home turf at CPKC Stadium. Entering the playoffs as the Number 1 seed, the Current will face the No. 8 seed, Gotham FC, to fight for their place in history.
November 9. 11:30 am. CPKC Stadium.
Wilderness Run
For over twenty years, this cross-country event has taken runners on a journey through history. Held at Shoal Creek Living History Museum, Wilderness Run includes two scenic routes (two-mile and five-mile courses) that wind through the wooded, 19th-century village. Afterwards, pursue the museum, enjoy a warm bowl of soup for lunch and relax by the campfire.
November 8. 9 am. Shoal Creek Living History Museum.
Tower Con
Tower Con, a locally-ran mini comicon, takes over Boulevard Brewing Co. this weekend. Returning for its third year, the free, godzilla-themed event includes plenty of comic books, as well as collectibles, Pokémon trading cards and a raffle in support of KC mental health non-profit Cos4Hope.
November 9. 10:30 am. Boulevard Brewing Co. Tours and Rec Center.
American Royal’s World Series of Barbeque
In a tradition that dates back over 40 years, the American Royal’s World Series of Barbeque attracts hundreds of top-tier pitmasters to KC. Regarded as one of the world’s most respected BBQ events, the four-day-long affair includes both a prestigious invitational contest and an open contest for all skill levels. Thursday is reserved for team arrivals; Friday and Saturday welcome spectators with a limited number of tickets; and judging wraps up on Sunday.
November 5–9. Times vary. Kansas Speedway.
Visions of the Flint Hills
At this annual art benefit and sale, celebrate the beautiful plains of Kansas, portrayed through art pieces inspired by the Flint Hills’ landscapes—the largest tallgrass prairie in North America. Artists from around the country find themselves inspired by the region and present their pieces at the Buttonwood Art Space this fall. Half of the proceeds go to the artists themselves, while the other half benefit the Friends of Konza Prairie, which promotes education and research in the Flint Hills. Although the sale is open from October through November 10, a First Friday reception with live music and refreshments will be held on October 4.
October 1–November 10. Times vary. Buttonwood Art Space.
Cirque Mechanics’ ‘Tilt!’
This iconic, innovative and modern take on circus performance comes to KC in November. Founded in 2004, Cirque Mechanics prides itself on the inspiration that it draws from “American ingenuity” and traditional circus acts. In “Tilt!,” audience members are taken through a cast of characters traditionally found in a theme park. Their acrobatics take place on the backdrop of their unique mechanical ingenuity to bring the story to the stage.
November 7. 7:30 pm. Midwest Trust Center.
Hello, Dolly!
Hello, Dolly! says hello to KC. The White Theatre at the Jewish Community Center presents this musical adaptation of Thornton Wilder’s play The Matchmaker, following the bold and charming Dolly Gallagher Levi as she heads to Yonkers, New York, to find a match for the single and wealthy Horace Vandergelder. Revived on Broadway four times and staged around the globe, the show’s memorable music, dance, humor and heart continue to resonate with audiences.
November 1–23. Times vary. The White Theatre at The J.
Alone Together
The bittersweet feeling of becoming empty nesters doesn’t last long in the Broadway comedy Alone Together. Just as all three kids finally move out, they slowly start trickling back in, returning home to mom and dad one by one. Starring The Brady Bunch’s Barry Williams and featuring Cathy Bennett, this show explores the chaos and joy of family life. At New Theatre & Restaurant in Overland Park, the play is a full dining and entertainment experience, complete with waitstaff, cocktails and a gourmet buffet.
September 10–November 16. Times vary. New Theatre & Restaurant.
