Here are thirteen things to do in KC this weekend, February 20—23, including Reel Black Film Fest, Ballet Folklórico de México de Amalia Hernández and KC Carnival Ball.
Beetlejuice The Musical
Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice! The musical adaptation of Tim Burton’s beloved 1988 film is coming to KC stages for a campy and bizarre production that follows the story of teenager Lydia Deetz as she encounters a trio of ghosts.
February 18—23. Times vary. Kansas City Music Hall.
Aziz Ansari
Aziz Ansari is best known for portraying Tom Haverford on NBC’s Parks and Recreation and as the star and creator of Netflix’s Master of None. The Golden Globe and Emmy Award-winning comic and actor is making a stop on his stand-up Hypothetical Tour at The Midland. Known for his observations on modern relationships and culture, Ansari delivers jokes that are relatable and a bit cynical.
February 21. 7 pm. The Midland Theatre.
Beauty and the Beast
The Kansas City Ballet is reimagining Beauty and the Beast with a dazzling mix of storytelling and movement. With colorful costumes and a live narration from choreographer Bruce Wells, the classic fairytale promises fun for the whole family.
February 21–23. Times vary. Folly Theater.
Reel Black Film Fest
In honor of Black History Month, Reel Black Film Fest will highlight regional stories from KC filmmakers Nico Giles Wiggins, Jacob Handy and Kerry Rounds. The festival, hosted by Kansas City PBS, will chronicle systemic and structural racism, trailblazers and historically under-recognized champions throughout three films.
February 22. 1:30 pm. The Truman.
Ballet Folklórico de México de Amalia Hernández
Ballet Folklórico de México de Amalia Hernández’s captivating performances weave together the traditional dance, music and attire of Mexican folklore. Hailed by the New York Times for their “gorgeous costumes and breathtaking formations,” the Mexico City dance company’s KC appearance is presented by the Harriman-Jewell Series.
February 23. 5:30 pm. Muriel Kauffman Theatre.
Boozy Book Fair
KC’s Boozy Book Fair, aptly billed as “not your kid’s Scholastic book fair,” invites you to relive your childhood nostalgia—with a craft cocktail in hand. A collaboration between Kansas City Booksellers Association and KC bookstore The Gilded Page, the event features local authors, booksellers and plenty of literary fun.
February 22. 4–9 pm. Crown Center.
Imani Winds and Boston Brass
Imani Winds and Boston Brass, two powerful chamber ensembles and advocates of new music, unite for a dynamic performance. The program will feature the music of Cuban composer and musician Arturo Sandoval, along with lively works from Astor Piazolla, Paquito D’Rivera and more.
February 23. 7 pm. Midwest Trust Center.
The Get Up Kids
Kansas City’s own The Get Up Kids rose to popularity in the late 90s with second-wave emo anthems like “Holiday” and “Ten Minutes.” Across nine albums, their dedicated fan base has remained steadfast. The Midwest-emo band’s hometown show marks the 25th anniversary of the release of Something to Write Home About, their breakout sophomore album.
February 23. 8 pm. The Midland Theatre.
KC Carnival Ball
While members of KC’s Mardi Gras community like to keep the details of their celebrations elusive, the upcoming KC Carnival Ball—leading up to Fat Tuesday celebrations—is a free-for-all. The 25th annual celebration features a stacked line-up of bands, including Sunu, Back Alley Brass Band, Grand Marquis and Ernest James Zydeco. Tickets to the West Bottoms masquerade include an open bar and creole small bites.
February 22. 8 pm. The Ship.
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.
Little Women The Musical
Music Theater Heritage’s production of Little Women brings the classic Louisa May Alcott novel to the stage in a heartfelt musical adaptation. The empowering coming-of-age story follows the March sisters as they navigate love, loss and ambition amid the Civil War.
February 13—March 2. Times vary. Music Theater Heritage.
A Match Made in Heaven
St. Louis artist Katherine Bernhardt and KC fashion designer Jeremy Scott come together for a vibrant exhibit at Overland Park’s Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art. Scott, the designer behind Katy Perry’s iconic Met Gala burger look, will showcase over 100 looks alongside over 35 of Bernhardt’s bold paintings in the newly-opened exhibit, A Match Made in Heaven.
February 7—August 3. Times vary. Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art.
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).
