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The Magic of Broadway in Local Communities
Bringing a Broadway musical to Kansas City is no small feat. This fall, the beloved Beauty and the Beast is making its way to the heart of America, marking the first North American tour in 25 years for this enchanting show. With a combination of local charm and national talent, this production offers a thrilling glimpse into the hard-working world of theater, where the magic of Broadway is delivered straight to our doorstep.
A Behind-the-Scenes Look at the Tour
As production supervisor Jason Trubitt puts it, staging a Broadway musical is like moving into a new apartment every week. Traveling in nine massive trucks that carry over 17 tons of meticulously crafted scenery, lighting, and costumes, the tour team navigates the complexities of setting up in different venues across the country, including the Kansas City Music Hall. It’s a labor-intensive process, requiring a dedicated team of professionals who work tirelessly to ensure that every performance dazzles the audience.
The Community Connection
Each stop of the tour not only showcases the show but also provides opportunities for local residents to get involved. In Kansas City, 99 local freelancers will collaborate with the touring cast and crew of 75 seasoned New Yorkers. This partnership enriches the local artistic landscape while supporting the community, contributing to the vibrancy of Kansas City’s cultural scene.
Audience Expectations and the Role of Familiarity
Bringing Disney’s classic to life means meeting high expectations from audiences, who are already familiar with the animated film. Trubitt emphasizes the importance of “protecting the material” and presenting a version of Beauty and the Beast that resonates with those who have cherished it since childhood. The show aims to deliver a truly Broadway-caliber experience, ensuring that Kansas City audiences enjoy the same level of talent and artistry found in New York theaters.
The Unique Charm of Touring Productions
There’s something incredibly special about national tours: they bridge the gap between big-city Broadway and local communities. As Trubitt puts it, “We are delivering a Broadway-caliber production out to these places across America.” Local theaters become the stage for stories filled with laughter, love, and lessons, carefully curated to enchant everyone from families to eager theater-goers looking for their next adventure.
Supporting Local Business: Dining Options Before the Show
Attending Beauty and the Beast is a wonderful opportunity to explore Kansas City’s vibrant restaurant scene. Whether you're searching for the best BBQ in Kansas City or you’re in the mood for family-friendly dining, the options are plentiful. From delicious burnt ends to outdoor dining, local establishments provide the perfect pre-show meal. Here are some recommendations:
Joe's Kansas City BBQ: Known for some of the best BBQ in the country, this iconic spot serves mouth-watering meats and sandwiches.
Jack Stack Barbecue: Another local favorite, they offer a fantastic array of smokehouse dishes amid charming, family-friendly settings.
The Farmhouse: Perfect for families, offering locally sourced dishes in a welcoming atmosphere.
Enjoying a meal at one of these establishments not only enhances your theater experience but supports local businesses as well.
Plan Your Visit!
With a week of enchanting performances on the horizon, now is the perfect time to gather your friends and family for an unforgettable evening filled with music, magic, and memories. Before heading to the Kansas City Music Hall, indulge in the local culinary delights of the city, celebrating both the talent on stage and the flavors of Kansas City. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to connect with the arts and the local community—find your seats and prepare for a night of wonder!
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