Lyric Opera of Kansas City to present the world’s first mariachi opera, Cruzar la Cara de la Luna
This month, the Lyric Opera of Kansas City is bringing the world’s first mariachi opera, Cruzar la Cara de la Luna, to KC stages. Written by composer José “Pepé” Martínez and librettist Leonard Foglia, the groundbreaking and dynamic work will be directed by the librettist himself.
The one-act opera follows Laurentino, a Mexican immigrant who seeks work in the United States through the WWII-era Bracero Program—and makes the tough decision to leave his wife and son behind in the process. Decades later, nearing the end of his life, he is forced to confront and make peace with his decisions, as well as fill in the gaps left in his family’s story. Through a multigenerational lens, Cruzar la Cara de la Luna explores themes of sacrifice, unity and the enduring ties of family.
The production will also feature the Grammy Award-winning Mariachi Los Camperos—a renowned Los Angeles-based ensemble founded in 1961—on stage alongside performers. Known for their mastery of the mariachi tradition, the group will bring the opera’s driving score to life.
“Cruzar la Cara de la Luna is about crossing borders, literally and figuratively,” says Deborah Sandler, executive director of Lyric Opera of Kansas City. “It’s a moving, uplifting story about families.”
GO: Cruzar la Cara de la Luna. March 7 & 8 at 7:30 pm; March 9 at 2 pm. Muriel Kauffman Theatre.
1
Stanislav and Friends
Each spring, pianist Stanislav Ioudenitch—founder and artistic director of Park University’s International Center for Music—is joined by world-class colleagues, friends and protégés for the conservatory’s biggest show of the year. This year’s program, Echoes of Spain, includes a piano arrangement of Maurice Ravel’s Boléro and Manuel de Falla’s Suite Populaire Espagnole. Ioudenitch is highly regarded as a champion of the classical world for his 2001 win at the prestigious Van Cliburn International Piano Competition, comparable to the Super Bowl for concert pianists. March 1. 7 pm. Helzberg Hall.
1–April 23
Orchid Delirium
A stunning and vibrant display awaits at Powell Gardens’ Orchid Delirium. Originally launched in 2022, the annual indoor exhibit showcases hundreds of alternating blooms from the garden’s extensive 2,000-piece orchid collection. March 1–April 23. Times vary. Powell Gardens.
8
Kids Jam: Pierce Freelon
Although Grammy Award-winning musician Pierce Freelon’s music is technically for children, the grooving fusion of jazz, soul and hip-hop is captivating for all ages. Family-friendly activities including arts and crafts will begin in Polsky Theater’s lobby an hour before Freelon’s performance. March 8. 11 am. Polsky Theater.
11
Keb’ Mo’ & Shawn Colvin
Two of Americana’s finest singer-songwriters, Keb’ Mo’ and Shawn Colvin, come together for a night of storytelling and soul. While each exceptional in their own right, Mo’s blues-influenced stylings and Colvin’s poetically earnest songwriting are even more memorable together. March 11. 7:30 pm. Muriel Kauffman Theatre.
15
KC Current vs. Portland Thorns
KC, baby! The KC Current kicks off their first match of the season as they face the Portland Thorns at the scenic CPKC Stadium, the world’s first stadium dedicated solely to women’s sports. The all-star team—which placed fourth last season in the National Women’s Soccer League—is a force to be reckoned with, and KC’s exuberant, sell-out crowds are half the fun. March 15. 11:45 am. CPKC Stadium.
15
Branford Marsalis
Tenor saxophonist Branford Marsalis carries on the legacy of the famed Marsalis family—often hailed as the “first family of jazz.” The multitalented and versatile instrumentalist, bandleader and composer is known for his bold improvisations and virtuosic playing for a perpetually modern sound. March 15. 7:30 pm. Folly Theater.
16
Bonnie Raitt
The legendary, 13-time Grammy Award-winning Bonnie Raitt will assuredly bring down the house at The Midland. The singer and slide guitarist transcends genre and generations, weaving together elements of blues, country, folk and more in beloved hits like “Something to Talk About” and “Love Sneakin’ Up On You.” March 16. 7:30 pm. The Midland Theatre.
18 & 19
Ben Folds
Singer-songwriter and pianist Ben Folds has stylistically stretched his wings since his ’90s and early aughts indie-rock hits like “Bricks” and “Rockin’ the Suburbs.” Now delving into classical-hybrid, Folds blends his pop-rock stylings into works for orchestra and chamber ensembles. Historically a sold-out show, the highly anticipated performance marks Folds’ fifth time performing with the Kansas City Symphony. March 18 & 19. 7 pm. Helzberg Hall.
20
Felipe Torres Medina
Author Felipe Torres Medina’s latest book, America, Let Me In, is a sardonic and realistic look into the United States’ immigration process. A staff writer for The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, the Colombian author and comic’s book is based on his own experience immigrating, aiming to make the cumbersome process more accessible and poke a little fun, too. Tickets to the event, presented by Rainy Day Books, include a copy of the book, comedy performance, moderated discussion and book signing from Torres Medina. March 20. 6 pm. The Bird Comedy Theater.
21–30
Don Quixote
Step into a world of adventure, romance and whimsy as the Kansas City Ballet brings Don Quixote to life. Based on Miguel de Cervantes’ classic novel, the ballet follows the noble Don Quixote and his squire Sancho Panza’s quest, as well as a blossoming love between Kitri and Basilio. Although the lush orchestration has been a long-time labor of love for the dance company’s music director Ramona Pansegrau, the production marks the first time the ballet has been performed in KC. March 21–30. Times vary. Muriel Kauffman Theatre.
22
Stephen Day
Soul singer Stephen Day is bringing his retro-pop sensibilities to KC. With wide-ranging influences from Glen Campbell to D’Angelo, the Nashville-based artist is hitting the road in support of his latest album, Gold Mine. March 22. 7 pm. recordBar.
28
Flutienastiness and the Soul Patrol
Soul jazz flutist Amber Underwood, known as Flutienastiness, has been taking KC stages by storm since she was just eight years old. A part of the Vine Street Brewing Company’s Groove Room Jazz Series, Flutienastiness and the Soul Patrol will deliver a tantalizing combination of smooth jazz, R&B and funk. March 28. 6 pm. Vine Street Brewing Company.
29
Art for the Children
Art for the Children is an evening of dancing, food and drink—all for a great cause. Now in its 26th year, the annual Medical Missions Foundation event assists in funding life-saving medical care for children around the world. The night features an auction showcasing works from renowned artists including David Uhlig and Anthony Oropeza. March 29. 6 pm. Armacost Car Museum, Grandview.
29
Harlem Globetrotters
The world-famous Harlem Globetrotters return to KC to flaunt their stunts as they face their rivals, the Washington Generals. A part of their 2025 world tour, the Harlem Globetrotters are celebrating 99 years of expert trickshots. March 29. 2 pm. T-Mobile Center.
