A New Era at the Museum of Kansas City: Meet Big Sonia
On September 4, 2025, the Museum of Kansas City unveiled a remarkable new exhibit that transforms the way we engage with history. Titled "Big Sonia," this interactive experience goes beyond traditional exhibits to allow visitors a deeply personal connection with Sonia Warshawski, affectionately known as 'Big Sonia.' A Holocaust survivor, seasoned businesswoman, and beloved matriarch, Sonia’s journey is a narrative enriched with resilience, fortitude, and the spirit of Kansas City.
Bringing Sonia's Story to Life
Located in the museum’s third-floor gallery, "Our City, Our Stories," this exhibit is the result of a collaborative effort involving Sonia's granddaughter, filmmaker Leah Warshawski, and the innovative team at StoryFile. The exhibit enables guests to have a conversation with Sonia, who shares her experiences through a series of recorded responses. These encompass over 400 questions about her early life in Poland, her survival during the war, and her contributions as a great-grandmother and business owner in the United States.
At the heart of this exhibit is advanced technology that distinguishes it from artificial intelligence-driven interactions. Instead, guests will access a library of responses that are literally Sonia's words captured in her own voice. Each answer reflects her authentic experience, fostering a genuine connection between Sonia and museum visitors. This unique approach transforms passive observation into an active dialogue, allowing guests to engage with history in a personal way.
Why Sonia's Tale Matters
This exhibit offers much more than just a look into past struggles; it embodies the spirit of Kansas City. By spotlighting local icons like Big Sonia, the Museum serves as a reminder of the resilience present within our community. Each interaction shows the strength and wisdom that Sonia possesses and passes down through her family and community. This isn’t merely an exhibit; it’s a testament to the stories that make up the fabric of Kansas City.
The Technological Marvel Behind the Exhibit
A key feature of the "Big Sonia" exhibit is its interactive element developed by StoryFile. This technology allows guests to use either touchscreen interfaces or voice commands to ask Sonia questions directly. It opens a pathway for personal inquiries about her favorite Kansas City memories, her entrepreneurial journey, and the lessons learned from her life’s trials. The exhibit even includes captioning to ensure accessibility, making it a truly inclusive experience.
Support for a Local Treasure
This initiative would not have been possible without the generosity of the Barton P. Cohen and Mary Davidson Cohen Charitable Trust. Their support highlights the value placed on preserving local stories and enriching our community through shared history.
A Call to Discover Kansas City’s Heart
The "Big Sonia" exhibit is not just an encounter with one woman's incredible journey; it’s an invitation for every Kansas City resident to engage with the narratives that define us. Admission is free, making it accessible for families, students, and visitors. By exploring Sonia's life, we’re reminded of our shared history and the enduring spirit of resilience that binds us together.
Join the Conversation!
Have a story to share or want to contact us for more details about Big Sonia and other local treasures? Drop us an email at team@kansascitythrive.com and become a part of the Kansas City narrative. Together, let’s celebrate and uplift the voices and stories that enrich our beloved community!
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