Here are thirteen great things to do in Kansas City this weekend, October 12-15, including: ODESZA at T-Mobile Center, Jekyll & Hyde and PorchFestKC.
Justice at War
Step into history with Justice at War, an interactive drama based on true events. The play invites audiences to become Supreme Court Justices in Mitsuye Endo’s challenge against her internment during WWII. This drama delves into crucial questions of justice, government responsibility and national security, highlighting how one woman defended the rights of millions.
September 19–October 15. Times vary. Coterie Theatre.
Drinkaway Camp: A Slasher Themed Pop Up Experience
Drinkaway Camp: A Slasher Pop Up + Experience is a spooky immersive drinking experience, which combines elements from Cabin in the Woods-themed movies, and allows participants to embody their favorite horror archetypes. Drinkaway Camp will also feature a selection of spooky craft cocktails and housemade microbrews for liquid courage as guests navigate the terrifying challenges.
Weekends in October. 6 & 8:30 pm. October 30 & 31. 7 pm. The Big Rip Brewing Company.
Ain’t Misbehavin’
Ain’t Misbehavin’ pays homage to the Harlem Renaissance with a sassy, sultry celebration of a vibrant era in American history and jazz legend Fats Waller. Expect to hear his beloved tunes like “The Joint is Jumpin’” and “Handful of Keys.”
October 12–15, 19–22 and 25–29. Times vary. Music Theater Heritage.
ODESZA
Washington-based uber-popular EDM duo ODESZA is coming to KC in their anticipated follow-up to last year’s The Last Goodbye Tour. The second leg features support from Big Boi, TOKiMONSTA and OLAN & QRTR.
October 13. 6:30 pm. T-Mobile Center.
Unleash the Beats
Chicago-based troupe Tap Theatre seamlessly blends tap and concert dance, creating a captivating performance complemented by live music from the city’s finest musicians. Unleash the Beats promises to be an unforgettable night of rhythmic brilliance spanning diverse musical genres, from Duke Ellington to David Bowie.
October 13. 8 pm. Yardley Hall.
Ghost Light 2023
In the dark woods of Roanoke Park comes the fourth annual frightfully fun night of ghost stories and songs. Embrace the start of Spooky Season with the musicians, writers and storytellers that make up KC’s diverse arts community at Ghost Light. Enjoy the free hybrid concert and ghost-story event with art-making activities, live performances from the Ghostlight Orchestra and a haunted parade complete with costumes.
October 13–14. Grounds open at 4 pm; performance at 7:30 pm. Roanoke Park.
Bond & Beyond 55 Years of 007
The KC Symphony, led by conductor Gonzalo Faria with vocalist Morgan James, takes you into the world of your favorite spy. The legacy of the 007 franchise comes alive in this symphonic tribute featuring music spanning five decades of Bond films, including Casino Royale, Goldfinger and more.
October 13–14. 8 pm. October 15. 2 pm. Helzberg Hall.
Lenexa Chili Challenge
This two-day chili showdown hosts more than two hundred teams competing in chili, wings and salsa competitions. Visitors can also enjoy a firework show, face painting and balloon artists, all while chowing down on some of the best chili in the city.
October 13–14. Times vary. Old Town Lenexa.
Jekyll & Hyde
Kansas City Ballet’s Jekyll & Hyde brings the haunting tale of a dark mind and shady streets to life. This North American premiere, choreographed by Val Caniparoli from the Finnish National Ballet, presents the timeless tale with music performed by the KC Symphony.
October 13–15 & 19–22. Times vary. Kauffman Theatre.
PorchFestKC
This free community music celebration returns for its sixth year, turning dozens of Midtown’s historic front porches into concert stages featuring local diverse and talented musicians of all genres and ages. The festival showcases the best of KC—incredible music, beautiful neighborhoods and local community.
October 14. Noon–6 pm. Roanoke/Valentine neighborhoods.
Cultura Fest
The inaugural Cultura Fest—a celebration of Latine arts and culture in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month. There will be muralists: Andrew Mcilvaine, DinKC, and IT-RA Icons, with live mural painting, printmaking by Viva La Tinta, a lucha libre performance, food trucks, lowriders, and more at this free, family-friendly event.
October 14. Noon–6 pm. The Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art.
Nicole Springer
Critically-acclaimed singer-songwriter Nicole Springer joins the Charlotte House Series once again in anticipation of the release of her upcoming self-titled album. During this special event, Springer will perform the entirety of her new album live on acoustic guitar and grand piano, along with favorites from earlier recordings and a tribute to Janis Joplin.
October 14. 3:30 pm. Location disclosed at time of ticket purchase.
Jewish Culture Fest
The eleventh Jewish Culture Fest is returning to The J with a variety of entertainment, including children’s musician ShirLaLa, Jewish Country musician Joe Buchanan and acapella group The Maccabeats, artisanal jewelry and crafts for sale, family activities, kosher food, a kosher wine tasting experience lead by sommelier Aaron Fry and more.
October 15. 11 am.—6:30 pm. Jewish Community Center of Greater Kansas City.
