Theatre in the Park
Shawnee Mission Park (with separate entrance at 7710 Renner Road)
913.312.8841
TheatreInThePark.org
… the quality of theatre for the price is excellent. I encourage everyone to come see the shows and to realize what’s done [for each performance]. – Pam Blackburn, Shawnee, volunteer costumer since 1997.
Recent economic reports state that between 50 and 60 percent of American consumers are reducing their entertainment spending with one exception: they are going to movies more often. Well, for about the same price as a movie, Kansas City area families can take in a high quality live theatrical production at Theatre in the Park. (Adult tickets are $8; children $6.) The largest outdoor community theatre in the country, this gem is located in Shawnee Mission Park, just north of I-435 and 87th Street.
Unlike the movies, you can bring your own refreshments to Theatre in the Park and enjoy a memorable picnic dinner, or take the night off and purchase food at the concession stand. And, unlike the movies, your family will see local talent performing classic shows from popular American theatre. What better way to introduce your family to live theatre and cultivate an appreciation for the arts? Celebrate Forty Years
Make it a point to see a show this summer, as Theatre in the Park celebrates its 40th anniversary! The season kicks off with a free anniversary party on June 5 at 7:00 p.m. Former actors are returning to perform short medleys from nearly 70 favorite shows from the 1970s through the 1990s; old photographs and memorabilia will be on display to revive fond memories.
This loyal cadre of performers and volunteers is what makes Theatre in the Park so special--many have been involved with shows for more than 20 years.
When to Go, What to Bring
Fridays are opening night, with each show continuing through Sunday the first week, and Thursday through Sunday the following week(s). The box office opens at 7:00 p.m., gates open at 7:30 p.m. and the show begins at 8:30 p.m. Most performances are two hours. (See the sidebar for detailed information.)
Seasoned fans say it’s best to arrive early to enjoy the park before the show begins. Blankets, lawn chairs and picnic baskets, and maybe a few soft Frisbees or other toys make the outdoor experience more enjoyable.
The 2009 Season
KCParent.com is giving away 200 Theatre in the Park tickets this year! To enter to win, click here.
Every season offers something for all ages and generations, but this year’s line-up is a sure crowd pleaser.
Seven Brides for Seven Brothers (June 12-14, 18-21)
High School Musical (June 26-28, July 2-5, 9-12)
The Wedding Singer (July 17-19, 23-26)
The Wizard of Oz (July 31, Aug. 1, 2, 6-9)
Granted, outdoor theatre is casual, but there is some etiquette that audiences are expected to follow.
Box office: Opens at 7:00 p.m., gates at 7:30 p.m.; show begins at 8:30. On July 4, plan to arrive by 5:30 for the best parking.
Admission: $8 Adults, $6 youth ages 4-10 years; 3 and under are free.
FYI: Observe “Blankets Only” areas and reserve only the space you need. General rule is one person may save seats for six (6) people maximum. Low seats or beach chairs are allowed in the blanket area.
No pets allowed in Theatre bowl.
No alcohol or glass containers are allowed in the park or theatre area.
Smoking is prohibited in theatre seating area.
No flash photography or videotaping. Turn off cell phones and pagers during performances.
Rainout policy: all sales are final unless the show is cancelled within 45 minutes of the show’s beginning. If 45 minutes or more of the show is performed, no rainout passes or refunds are distributed.
Kathy Stump lives in Parkville, from where she and her family enjoy outdoor activities throughout the summer.