KC Rep and a few other local stages wind up their seasons, which means one last chance before summer heats up to enjoy these productions, on stage here in Kansas City:
The following list was graciously compiled by Mark Edelman, the founder and president of Theater League. Mark is a playwright who loves writing about theater.
CACTUS FLOWER Now thru June 28 New Theatre Restaurant
Nurse Dickinson’s as prickly as a cactus; but when her dentist boss has her masquerade as his wife, guess who blossoms? Taxi alum Marilu Henner stars in this dinner theatre favorite, under the direction of comedy sculptor supreme Dennis Hennessy. The ever-dashing John Rensenhouse plays the playboy periodontist; add KC favorites Cathy Barnett, Craig Benton and Victor Raider-Wexler to the mix and you’ve got a recipe for fun as tasty as anything on that world-renowned buffet. Tickets at www.newtheatre.com.
THE WIZARD OF OZ May 5-24 Spencer Theatre at UMKC
Journey to the magical land of Oz in a new stage adaptation of this family classic in collaboration with Tony® Award winners PigPen Theatre Co. Once again, Dorothy, Toto, and her intrepid fellow travelers—the Scarecrow, Tin Man, and Cowardly Lion—travel the Yellow Brick Road in search of the Wizard and a way back home. Timeless songs like “Over the Rainbow” and “We’re Off to See the Wizard” never disappoint; and everybody could use a little heart, brain and courage these days. Tickets at www.kcrep.org.
DON’T TOUCH MY HAIR May 6- 24 Unicorn Theatre
Eemani and Jade light up to unwind, but their joint is laced with more than THC. A wild hallucination gives them superpowers to confront the past in this hilarious, eye-opening journey celebrating Black womanhood and self-discovery. Marvel comics—watch out! Tickets at www.unicorntheatre.org
BRIGADOON May 7-10 Music Theatre Heritage at Crown Center
A mysterious Scottish village comes to life in this classic Lerner and Loewe Broadway musical. “Almost Like Being in Love” and “Heather on the Hill” are just two of the many musical delights that have made this show such an endearing piece of theatrical history. Tickets at www.musictheaterheritage.com
BROADWAY UP CLOSE May 8- 31 Quality Hill Playhouse
A celebration of Broadway since J. Kent Barnhart opened its doors, Quality Hill Playhouse celebrates thirty years of cabaret musical theatre with songs from Titanic, Come From Away, Wicked, and more featuring Barnhart on the eighty-eights and vocalist Cindy Baker by his side. Tickets at www.qualityhillplayhouse.com.
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