Nani Vazana
STRAUSS BLACK BOX THEATRE
Nani Vazana: A Second Skin
Nani Vazana, a millennial Ladino songwriter and one of today’s most compelling voices in world music, brings ancient tradition into the modern age. Winner of the 2024 Eurovision for Minority Languages (Liet International) representing the Netherlands with her original song Una Segunda Piel (A Second Skin), Vazana is redefining the soundscape of Sephardic culture.
Praised by BBC Radio 3 for a voice that “transports you from ancient markets to modern jazz clubs in one breath,” Vazana fuses flamenco-inspired vocals, heartfelt piano, and soft choral trombone with contemporary storytelling. Her music revitalizes Ladino—the nearly lost language of Sephardic Jews—while tackling socially resonant themes of migration, gender, and female empowerment.
Her album Ke Haber (What’s New) reached #11 on the World Music Charts and #13 on the Music Charts Europe, and her work has been archived in the Library of Congress (USA). Vazana has graced international stages including the Kennedy Center (USA), London Jazz Festival (UK), Montana and Richmond Folk Festivals (USA), Jazz in the Park (Romania), and the Jodhpur RIFF Festival (India), as well as TEDx Amsterdam.
Select Honors & Milestones
Winner – Eurovision for Minority Languages Liet International (2024)
Library of Congress Documentation (2023)
PAIS Album Promotion Grant, Israel (2021)
SENA Music Production Grant, Netherlands (2020)
Arts Council England Premiere Grant (2019)
Sephardic Music Award, Spain (2017)
Step into a musical journey where the sounds and scents of ancient marketplaces meet the vibrance of contemporary jazz and world music—an unforgettable performance by Nani Vazana.
Purchase Tickets Here
Black Magic: The Santana Experience
ROSS FAMILY THEATRE
Black Magic honors the music of guitar legend Carlos Santana, who attributes his music’s popularity to the blending of African based rhythms, bluesy organ, and of course that melodic guitar played straight from the heart.
Black Magic stays true to this formula and focuses heavily on the authenticity of Santana’s live concerts. Their audience is taken on a journey throughout Santana’s incredible 50+ year career with classics from the Woodstock Era (Black Magic Woman and Oye Como Va), tributes to his passionate and powerful ballads (Europa and Samba Pa Ti), and also performing his current Grammy hits (Smooth and Maria Maria).
Always creating an energetic yet soulful performance, Black Magic delivers the true Santana Experience.
Purchase Tickets Here
Director's Cut: Show Me 66 - Main St. Through St. Louis
FREE EVENT
Ross Family Theatre
Travel St. Louis's stretch of the legendary Route 66 through film, storytelling, and live music at Show Me 66, a special afternoon event celebrating the history, culture, and enduring spirit of America’s most iconic highway.
This free program features a curated conversation with award-winning documentary film director and Missouri Historical Society historian Andrew Wanko, who will share behind the scenes insights from the making of the documentary and the stories that brought Route to life in St. Louis.
The afternoon is rounded out with music featuring Emily Wallace inspired by the open road, evoking the sounds and rhythms that define Route 66.
Attendees are encouraged to visit the Route 66 sculpture at the corner of Argonne Drive and Kirkwood Road.
Reserve Your Tickets Here.
Songs of Love - A Valentine’s Day Celebration
STRAUSS BLACK BOX THEATRE
Celebrate Valentine’s Day with an unforgettable evening of timeless romance as acclaimed vocalist Jonathan Karrant takes the stage at the Kirkwood Performing Arts Center. Renowned for his velvety voice and captivating stage presence, Jonathan brings to life some of the most cherished love songs from The Great American Songbook. Immerse yourself in the warmth of these classic melodies as they fill the air with passion and nostalgia. Join us for a night of beautiful music, heartfelt emotion, and pure romance, the perfect way to celebrate love.
Jonathan Karrant's album, “On and On” hit #4 on the Billboard Jazz charts and his album Live hit #2 on the iTunes Jazz Charts. Named one of Downbeat's top 10 rising vocalists, he has collaborated with such artists as Dinae Schuur, Jane Monheit and Houston Person. With a repertoire that spans classic jazz standards and contemporary interpretations, Jonathan brings a modern elegance to the timeless genre of jazz. “A voice, romantic without being cloying, warm but not forced, Jonathan carries songs with an emotional weight that reaches your soul. At the same time he can swing with the kind of jazz suave that was patented by Mel Torme.” Jazz Corner
Purchase Tickets Here
The University City Symphony Orchestra presents: Mozart Meets Bird
ROSS FAMILY THEATRE
2:15 PM Conductor’s Conversation
3:00 PM Concert
Enjoy an afternoon of expressive contrasts and timeless beauty with the University City Symphony Orchestra, led by Music Director Leon Burke. This inspired program bridges classical elegance and jazz innovation, opening with Mozart’s radiant Piano Concerto No. 21, performed by Junhong Jiang, winner of the Artist Presentation Society competition. Bartók’s poignant Concerto for Viola follows, featuring Marcello Jimenez in one of the composer’s most moving late works. The concert concludes with Charlie Parker’s iconic Bird with Strings, spotlighting saxophonist Kendrick Smith in a lush fusion of jazz and orchestral sound.
This performance is presented with support from the Regional Arts Commission and with public support from the Missouri Arts Council, a state agency.
Free admission
Ticket required for entry
Reserve your seat here.
Kirkwood Arts Foundation: Gallery Reception & Concert
The Kirkwood Arts Commission invites you to the Spring Gallery Opening Concert at the Kirkwood Performing Arts Center, featuring the Wild Horses.
The evening begins with the unveiling of the Spring Gallery Exhibition, showcasing works by three outstanding visual artists in KPAC’s lobby gallery spaces during a free public reception from 4:00–7:00 PM.
At 7:00 PM, the celebration continues in the Strauss Studio Theatre featuring three well-loved STL musicians: Annastasia Hamilton (Vocals/Guitar), Abigail Stahlschmidt (Violin/Vocals), and Dave Evans (Guitar/Vocals). WILD HORSES is a powerhouse acoustic rock trio performing classics bands like Heart, Led Zeppelin, Tom Petty, and Janis Joplin.
Come celebrate the season with an event that unites the power of live music and the vibrancy of the visual arts. Experience an inspiring evening of community, creativity, and connection—where art meets music each season.
All ticket proceeds benefit the Kirkwood Arts Commission, a Commission of the City of Kirkwood dedicated to promoting and sponsoring the arts—and encouraging participation in the arts—for the enrichment of the entire Kirkwood community.
Playadors: An Evening of Jazz & Soul
Come experience Playadors! Led by master keyboardist and composer Dave Grelle, this band is a powerhouse ensemble from St. Louis that blends 1970s jazz-funk fusion with modern soul and R&B. Composed of some of the city's finest musicians, the band is known for high-energy performances featuring heavy grooves, intricate horn lines, and soulful vocals.
Coffee Concert Series: Dawn Turlington
The KPAC Coffee Concert Series is kicking off the year with beloved St. Louis musician Dawn Turlington with her show, “Singin’ Sweethearts.”
Known for her incredible vocal range and versatility, Dawn is a true musical chameleon. This morning, she’ll be channeling the most beloved female voices of the 1970s—bringing you the nostalgic, velvety tones of Karen Carpenter, the folk-rock energy of Linda Ronstadt, and classics from Anne Murray, Carole King, and more.
Come grab a seat at the Kirkwood Performing Arts Center where a warm cup of coffee and Dawn’s electrifying stage presence will really wake you up.
Tickets available via the Kirkwood Performing Arts Center Box Office or MetroTix.
Sponsored by Dunkin' Donuts.
Winter Opera St. Louis presents ROMEO AND JULIETTE by Charles Gounod
ROSS FAMILY THEATRE
Be swept away by the timeless tale of star-crossed lovers, where youthful passion clashes with ancient hatred, igniting a tragic flame. Prepare for soaring melodies and heart-wrenching drama as Romeo and Juliet defy fate in their desperate pursuit of love.
Purchase Tickets Here.
Tree of the Year with Mayor Gibbons
Host: Mayor Liz Gibbons & the Kirkwood Urban Forestry Commission
Location: Kirkwood Performing Arts Center Event Space (Strauss)
Join Mayor Liz Gibbons for the annual Tree of the Year celebration, a signature initiative dedicated to enhancing Kirkwood’s historic urban forest. This community event highlights a featured native species selected for its resilience and ecological value to our local landscape.
Event Highlights:
Mayor’s Vision: Remarks from Mayor Gibbons on her "green vision" for maintaining Kirkwood’s canopy.
Expert Keynote: Insights from leading arborists on sustainable planting and tree stewardship.
Community Resources: Educational tables hosted by the Kirkwood Urban Forestry Commission, Missouri Department of Conservation, and local volunteer groups.
Celebrate "The Greentree City" and learn how you can help grow a more vibrant, sustainable Kirkwood for future generations.
Winter Opera St. Louis presents ROMEO AND JULIETTE by Charles Gounod
ROSS FAMILY THEATRE
Be swept away by the timeless tale of star-crossed lovers, where youthful passion clashes with ancient hatred, igniting a tragic flame. Prepare for soaring melodies and heart-wrenching drama as Romeo and Juliet defy fate in their desperate pursuit of love.
Purchase Tickets Here.
Coffee Concert Series: Wendy Gordon
Prepare for an intimate experience with Rhythms & Rhymes, a performance where Wendy Gordon bares her soul through the raw power of song and original spoken word. This isn’t just a setlist; it is a vulnerable, rhythmic autobiography from a a prominent St. Louis jazz and blues vocalist known for her deep contributions to the city's musical landscape and her philanthropic efforts.
Experience an hour where music and verse connect to create a tapestry of memory and meaning. Journey with Wendy through the sounds that have shaped her—from the timeless echoes of the 1950s to the vibrant rhythms of today. Interwoven with these songs, she will share her own poetry, each line a reflection and each stanza a heartbeat.
Ease into your morning with soulful melody and a cup of coffee to warm your soul.
Sponsored by Dunkin’ Donuts.
Mitzi MacDonald & Keltic Reign - A St. Paddy’s Performance!
Get yer’ Irish on and prepare to be thoroughly entertained in time for St. Paddy’s!
Band leader Mitzi MacDonald, from Nova Scotia, Canada, performs with her daughters – Holly Laws and Ashby Laws, both world class Irish musicians, her son Andrew Laws on bass, and original band members; vocalist Randy Getz, guitarist Mike Levine, and Marc Waters on percussion.
A highly entertaining hometown favorite, Keltic Reign is well known for their annual Christmas show at the Sheldon Concert Hall, as well as numerous performances at Irish festivals, The Whitaker Music Festival, Twilight Tuesday, and The Scottish Games. Together they have recorded three albums, with their own driving brand of Irish, Scottish, and east coast Canadian songs. Mitzi is also a prolific songwriter and has recorded six solo albums.
Come join in the fun - Sunday, March 15th, starting at 4PM.
Coffee Concert Series: Renee Smith
Experience the raw power and soulful storytelling of Renee Smith, the legendary "Queen of St. Louis Soul," as she takes the stage for an intimate morning of music. Inducted into the St. Louis Blues Women’s Hall of Fame in 2025, Smith brings over five decades of musical mastery to our Coffee Concert Series in the Strauss Theatre.
Known for her commanding stage presence and a voice that seamlessly blends her gospel roots with gritty, urban blues and jazz, Smith’s performances are more than just concerts—they are a journey through the heart of American music. Whether she is delivering a poignant ballad or a high-energy soul classic, her "storytelling" approach creates a deep, personal connection with every audience member.
Kick back with your cup o’ coffee, and enjoy the timeless tunes Renee makes seem so effortless.
Sponsored by Dunkin’ Donuts.
Molly Healey String Project
STRAUSS BLACK BOX THEATRE
Join violinist, cellist, and songwriter Molly Healey, along with her full band, for a night of lush and high-energy orchestral rock music at the KPAC! A fan once lovingly stated that Molly brings the orchestra to the live rock show, and it’s a descriptor that has stuck over the years. As the longtime fiddle player for the Ozark Mountain Daredevils who morphed into a powerhouse experimental songwriter, Molly Healey began her solo career in 2015 after buying a simple looping pedal. She immediately found a passion for blending her strings and voice together into atmospheric and experimental orchestral folk songs, and her first compositions were featured on her debut solo album, Nightbirds. She has since recorded 3 more albums, each growing in intensity and instrumentation, and the most recent of which, Lotus, was released in 2022. She has grown from the stripped-down looping solo set, to a roster of original music and choice covers that she often performs with her full electric band, the String Project. She plays a dazzling variety of instruments: cello, violin, guitar, and piano, all while experimenting with various other sounds looping in Ableton Live.
Purchase Tickets Here
Girlfriend Medicine: Breaking the Silence, One Laugh at a Time
STRAUSS BLACK BOX THEATRE
Where devised and improv comedy meet women’s health. A bold, funny, and heartfelt celebration of midlife.
Girlfriend Medicine is a live comedy experience blending devised and improvisational theater with women’s health education. Created by writer-performer-producer Michelle Dougherty in collaboration with Dr. Becky Lynn, MD of Evora Medical Group and a diverse ensemble of female-identifying comedians and actors, the show uses humor to break silence and stigma around menopause, hormones, and aging.
Through devised moments, spontaneous improv, and authentic storytelling, Girlfriend Medicine centers, celebrates, and empowers midlife women—creating a joyful, inclusive space where audiences feel seen, heard, and validated.
It’s part performance, part community, and all heart. Because when women come together—unfiltered, unashamed, and unapologetically themselves—something powerful happens.
Why You’ll Love It:
- A dynamic mix of devised scenes and fast-paced improv
- Real talk about women’s health delivered with warmth and wit
A creative celebration of women’s voices at every stage of life
A stellar cast!
Along with Dr. Becky Lynn, the cast consists of Sara Beaty, Joana Dominguez, Theresa Masters, Nancy Nigh, Tammy O’Donnell, and Kelly Peplinksi. Technical Director is Sara Yousef with set design by Lisa Lackey.
Runtime:
~105 minutes (15 minute intermission)
Age Recommendation:
Ages 14+ | Contains candid discussion of women’s health topics
Tickets On Sale Soon
Coffee Concert Series: Meghan Kirk
Prepare for a morning of pure theatrical magic with the incomparable Meghan Kirk, a "dyed-in-the-sequins" powerhouse who brings the glitz of Broadway directly to our stage! Known for being a "tremendously talented and charismatic" singing actress, Meghan doesn't just perform songs—she inhabits them, blending a "sure sense of the theatrical" with a warm, effortless vocal projection that captures every heart in the room. From high-energy showstoppers to intimate, soulful ballads, her performance is an masterclass in storytelling and vocal brilliance that you simply cannot miss.
Sponsored by Dunkin’ Donuts.
Gipsy Social: Live
Gipsy Social hits the Kirkwood Performing Arts Center on April 11th, blending the raw grit of Spanish guitar with the heavy pulse of Havana. Forget the standard tribute act; this is a high-octane collision of Latin rumba and Cuban soul that feels less like a concert and more like a riotous street party.
Lock in your tickets at the KPAC Box Office.
Bach to the Future and University City Symphony Orchestra
ROSS FAMILY THEATRE
2:15 PM Conductor’s Conversation
3:00 PM Concert
The mission of the University City Symphony Orchestra is to provide rich musical experiences and educational opportunities for the culturally diverse community of University City and beyond.
This performance is presented with support from the Regional Arts Commission and with public support from the Missouri Arts Council, a state agency.
Free admission
Ticket required to attend
Reserve your seat here.
Coffee Concert Series: Erin Bode
Trade the morning rush for a moment of pure clarity with our Coffee Concert Series - starring musician Erin Bode on April 21st. Bode brings her signature "luminous" sound to the KPAC stage. Kick back with a warm cup of coffee paired with a voice that flows like silk through a repertoire of folk-inspired jazz and timeless pop.
Join us at 10:00 AM for refreshments, followed by a 10:30 AM performance that will stay with you long after the final note fades.
Sponsored by Dunkin’ Donuts.
Winter Opera St. Louis presents UN BALLO IN MASCHERA (The Masked Ball) by Giuseppe Verdi
ROSS FAMILY THEATRE
Un ballo in maschera by Giuseppe Verdi
Experience a whirlwind of forbidden passion, political intrigue, and deadly betrayal culminating in a fateful masked ball. Witness the tragic consequences of a love that defies destiny, where secrets and daggers intertwine.
Purchase Tickets Here.
Winter Opera St. Louis presents UN BALLO IN MASCHERA (The Masked Ball) by Giuseppe Verdi
ROSS FAMILY THEATRE
Un ballo in maschera by Giuseppe Verdi
Experience a whirlwind of forbidden passion, political intrigue, and deadly betrayal culminating in a fateful masked ball. Witness the tragic consequences of a love that defies destiny, where secrets and daggers intertwine.
Purchase Tickets Here.
Miss Missouri Volunteer Scholarship Pageant Final Competition
ROSS FAMILY THEATRE
Miss Missouri Volunteer Scholarship Pageant Final Competition
Miss Missouri Volunteer Pageant is a nonprofit scholarship program for young women ages 13 to 26. This program is a part of the Miss Volunteer America, a national program based in Tennessee that seeks to empower young women across the country through educational scholarships and extraordinary opportunities. The program emphasizes Scholarship, Education, Responsibility, Volunteerism and Empowerment.
Purchase Tickets Here
Miss Missouri Volunteer Princess Program
ROSS FAMILY THEATRE
Miss Missouri Volunteer Princess Program
Miss Missouri Volunteer Pageant is a nonprofit scholarship program for young women ages 13 to 26. This program is a part of the Miss Volunteer America, a national program based in Tennessee that seeks to empower young women across the country through educational scholarships and extraordinary opportunities. The program emphasizes Scholarship, Education, Responsibility, Volunteerism and Empowerment.
Purchase Tickets Here.
Miss Missouri Volunteer Pageant
ROSS FAMILY THEATRE
Preliminary competition for the Miss Missouri Volunteer Scholarship Program.
Miss Missouri Volunteer Pageant is a nonprofit scholarship program for young women ages 13 to 26. This program is a part of the Miss Volunteer America, a national program based in Tennessee that seeks to empower young women across the country through educational scholarships and extraordinary opportunities. The program emphasizes Scholarship, Education, Responsibility, Volunteerism and Empowerment.
Purchase Tickets Here.
Coffee Concert: Kim Fuller Barnes
STRAUSS BLACK BOX THEATRE
Indulge in a melodic journey through the timeless classics of the Great American Songbook with Coffee Concerts @ KPAC. Sip unlimited cups of your favorite brew as we transport you to the golden era of music. Our series of enchanting performances celebrates the enduring allure of these legends, brought to life by exceptionally talented musicians. Join us at KPAC for an intimate musical rendezvous, where every note is a sip of nostalgia, and every chord is a taste of pure elegance. Let your senses savor the harmonious blend of coffee and melodies, creating a symphony of unforgettable moments.
Coffee and donuts sponsored by Dunkin' Donuts.
Tickets on sale soon
Klassic Rock Karaoke Competition 2025: Grand Finale
ROSS FAMILY THEATRE
Klassic Rock Karaoke - Experience It!
Join us for unforgettable live performances of Classic Rock music, featuring talented vocalists competing for exciting cash prizes. Energize your night with our high-energy music show that brings the magic of Classic Rock to life!
At Klassic Rock Karaoke, we celebrate the spirit of Classic Rock by providing an opportunity for talented vocalists to shine on stage. Our vibrant venue offers live performances with karaoke background music, allowing you to hear your favorite Classic Rock songs while witnessing fierce competition among singers vying for cash prizes. Expect an electrifying atmosphere that resonates with the energy of live music and the passion of our performers.
The 2025 Series at the Kirkwood Performing Arts Center features a LIVE AUDITION day and four evening performances throughout the year. The LIVE AUDITION is free to the public and will be a day filled with singers auditioning on stage, food, drink and a live broadcast by our sponsor, Classic Rock 93.1
Shows #1, #2, and #3 will each have three competitive sets with the winner of each set selected by audience voting. The three winners will compete in a fourth set and the audience will decide on the first, second and third place finishers, who will earn cash prizes of $500, $300 and $200 respectively.
At the Grand Finale previous winners from Shows #1-3 will be invited back to compete against each other - and new Klassic Rock Karaoke singers. It will be a spectacular event and the culmination of The 2025 Series, taking place over the 2025 Christmas holiday season.
Purchase Tickets Here
Let It Be Christmas: A Rock Opera
ROSS FAMILY THEATRE
Let it Be Christmas tells the Christmas story exclusively
through the music of The Beatles
Let it Be Christmas is a unique, modern day telling of the Christmas story expressed entirely through the music of The Beatles. The songs are cleverly woven together to celebrate the lives of Mary and Joseph, and ultimately, the birth of the Christ Child. The production includes dozens of the Fab Four’s best-loved tunes such as “Hey, Jude,” “The Long and Winding Road,” “All You Need is Love,” and of course, “Let it Be.” “Sit back and let the evening go” as you witness the Christmas story as never before.
“Christmas in July” Sale: Purchase tickets before August 1 and save $5 per seat!
Purchase Tickets Here
The 2025 Christmas Celebration at the KPAC feat. Savage Wright Project
STRAUSS BLACK BOX THEATRE
If you are looking for a way to celebrate the holidays with your family, join us for The 2025 Christmas Celebration at the KPAC ft. The Savage Wright Project. Combined with over 50 years of national and international touring, The Savage Wright Project and friends are sure to ring in joy with your favorite sing-a-longs, hymns, and standards from the great American Songbook. Come celebrate a jazzy Christmas with us! This event is family friendly and for all ages
Purchase Tickets Here
Let It Be Christmas: A Rock Opera
ROSS FAMILY THEATRE
Let it Be Christmas tells the Christmas story exclusively
through the music of The Beatles
Let it Be Christmas is a unique, modern day telling of the Christmas story expressed entirely through the music of The Beatles. The songs are cleverly woven together to celebrate the lives of Mary and Joseph, and ultimately, the birth of the Christ Child. The production includes dozens of the Fab Four’s best-loved tunes such as “Hey, Jude,” “The Long and Winding Road,” “All You Need is Love,” and of course, “Let it Be.” “Sit back and let the evening go” as you witness the Christmas story as never before.
“Christmas in July” Sale: Purchase tickets before August 1 and save $5 per seat!
Purchase Tickets Here
THE WIZARD OF OZ presented by Gateway Center for the Performing Arts
ROSS FAMILY THEATRE
Presenting Partner: Nestle Purina Petcare
We're off to see the wizard! This beloved tale, in which a Kansas farm girl travels over the rainbow to discover the magical power of home, has entertained audiences for generations.
Follow the yellow brick road in this delightful stage adaptation of L. Frank Baum’s beloved tale, featuring the iconic musical score from the MGM film. The timeless tale, in which young Dorothy Gale travels from Kansas over the rainbow to the magical Land of Oz, continues to thrill audiences worldwide. Rated G.
Purchase Tickets Here.
THE WIZARD OF OZ presented by Gateway Center for the Performing Arts
ROSS FAMILY THEATRE
Presenting Partner: Nestle Purina Petcare
We're off to see the wizard! This beloved tale, in which a Kansas farm girl travels over the rainbow to discover the magical power of home, has entertained audiences for generations.
Follow the yellow brick road in this delightful stage adaptation of L. Frank Baum’s beloved tale, featuring the iconic musical score from the MGM film. The timeless tale, in which young Dorothy Gale travels from Kansas over the rainbow to the magical Land of Oz, continues to thrill audiences worldwide. Rated G.
Purchase Tickets Here.
THE WIZARD OF OZ presented by Gateway Center for the Performing Arts
ROSS FAMILY THEATRE
Presenting Partner: Nestle Purina Petcare
We're off to see the wizard! This beloved tale, in which a Kansas farm girl travels over the rainbow to discover the magical power of home, has entertained audiences for generations.
Follow the yellow brick road in this delightful stage adaptation of L. Frank Baum’s beloved tale, featuring the iconic musical score from the MGM film. The timeless tale, in which young Dorothy Gale travels from Kansas over the rainbow to the magical Land of Oz, continues to thrill audiences worldwide. Rated G.
Purchase Tickets Here.
THE WIZARD OF OZ presented by Gateway Center for the Performing Arts
ROSS FAMILY THEATRE
Presenting Partner: Nestle Purina Petcare
We're off to see the wizard! This beloved tale, in which a Kansas farm girl travels over the rainbow to discover the magical power of home, has entertained audiences for generations.
Follow the yellow brick road in this delightful stage adaptation of L. Frank Baum’s beloved tale, featuring the iconic musical score from the MGM film. The timeless tale, in which young Dorothy Gale travels from Kansas over the rainbow to the magical Land of Oz, continues to thrill audiences worldwide. Rated G.
Purchase Tickets Here.
THE WIZARD OF OZ presented by Gateway Center for the Performing Arts
ROSS FAMILY THEATRE
Presenting Partner: Nestle Purina Petcare
We're off to see the wizard! This beloved tale, in which a Kansas farm girl travels over the rainbow to discover the magical power of home, has entertained audiences for generations.
Follow the yellow brick road in this delightful stage adaptation of L. Frank Baum’s beloved tale, featuring the iconic musical score from the MGM film. The timeless tale, in which young Dorothy Gale travels from Kansas over the rainbow to the magical Land of Oz, continues to thrill audiences worldwide. Rated G.
Purchase Tickets Here.
Coffee Concert: Charles Glenn
STRAUSS BLACK BOX THEATRE
Indulge in a melodic journey through the timeless classics of the Great American Songbook with Coffee Concerts @ KPAC. Sip unlimited cups of your favorite brew as we transport you to the golden era of music. Our series of enchanting performances celebrates the enduring allure of these legends, brought to life by exceptionally talented musicians. Join us at KPAC for an intimate musical rendezvous, where every note is a sip of nostalgia, and every chord is a taste of pure elegance. Let your senses savor the harmonious blend of coffee and melodies, creating a symphony of unforgettable moments.
Coffee and donuts sponsored by Dunkin' Donuts.
Tickets on sale soon
Bach to the Future
STRAUSS BLACK BOX THEATRE
Get ready for a musical sleigh ride through time as Bach to the Future returns to the Kirkwood Performing Arts Center! This innovative St. Louis ensemble features Michael Silverman on piano and keyboards, Rob Silverman on drums, Matt Bollinger on bass, and Tracy Silverman on electric violin — a powerhouse lineup that blends classical virtuosity with the freedom and flair of jazz and world rhythms.
For this special holiday performance, the group will perform some of their most popular Bach to the Future arrangements of timeless classical works — all brilliantly reimagined through jazz, rock, and Latin grooves — along with a festive selection of holiday favorites given their signature creative twist.
It’s an inspired, high-energy concert for the whole family — where timeless masterpieces meet modern innovation.
Don’t miss this joyful holiday event — only at the Kirkwood Performing Arts Center!
Purchase Tickets Here.
Erin Bode Christmas Concert - A Cold December Night
STRAUSS BLACK BOX THEATRE
Join acclaimed vocalist Erin Bode for a luminous evening of holiday music on Friday, December 12, 2025 at 7:30 PM at the Kirkwood Performing Arts Center. Drawing from her beloved album A Cold December Night, Erin and her trio reimagine seasonal favorites and intimate originals with warmth, grace, and jazz-inflected charm. The delicate textures of Tara Santiago (cello) and Steve Schenkel (guitar) frame Erin’s crystalline voice, creating a cozy, candlelit atmosphere perfect for the season. Expect cherished carols, fresh arrangements, and moments of quiet beauty that make the holidays feel brand new.
Lineup: Erin Bode, vocals • Tara Santiago, cello • Steve Schenkel, guitar
Purchase Tickets Here
Extraneous, Commas: Roll the Dice! Improv Comedy Game Show
STRAUSS BLACK BOX THEATRE
It’s a Game! It’s a Show!
An Improv Show made up of short-form improv games! It’s a Show within a Game! (Like ‘Whose Line is it Anyway?’)
Join in the fun as you, the audience, roll the dice to pick the games! Improvisers must think fast as they move along the game board. There will be singing, dancing, crying, and, for sure, laughing!
Any audience participation is completely voluntary!
Purchase Tickets Here
The Kendrick Smith Quartet
STRAUSS BLACK BOX THEATRE
Meet the Kendrick Smith Quartet — the hottest jazz combo in the St. Louis scene, lighting up stages with their high-energy sets and soulful improvisation. At the helm is fiery saxophonist Kendrick Smith, whose dynamic tone and bold phrasing command attention from the first note. Holding down the groove is Bernard Terry on bass, laying down rich, driving lines with effortless finesse. On drums, Ben Dicke brings tight, intuitive rhythms that push the band forward with precision and punch. Rounding out the group is Daniel Herrera on piano, blending harmonic depth with spontaneous flair to complete the group’s explosive sound.
Together, they blend tradition and innovation — channeling the spirit of hard bop with a fresh, modern edge. Whether burning through uptempo swing or simmering on a ballad, the Kendrick Smith Quartet is a must-hear force in St. Louis jazz.
Purchase Tickets
Jeremiah Johnson
STRAUSS BLACK BOX THEATRE
Get ready for a night of gritty, soulful blues when Jeremiah Johnson brings his powerhouse trio to the Strauss Black Box Theatre at the Kirkwood Performing Arts Center on Friday, December 5. Known for his fiery blend of St. Louis blues, Southern rock, and heartfelt songwriting, Johnson has carved out a reputation as one of the top modern blues-rock performers in the country. With multiple Billboard-charting albums including Hi-Fi Drive By and Heavens to Betsy, he delivers hard-hitting guitar riffs, emotionally charged vocals, and stories rooted in real life. His music is both deeply personal and undeniably energetic, drawing on working-class experiences and the spirit of American roots music.
This show is part of the Strauss Studio Series, an intimate, cabaret-style concert experience that brings you closer to the artist than ever before. The Black Box Theater’s up-close setting is the perfect environment to experience Johnson’s raw and dynamic live performance. You can expect a mix of fan favorites, deep cuts, and spontaneous jams, all performed with the soulful intensity that has earned him a loyal following across the globe. With tight arrangements, extended guitar solos, and a rhythm section that knows how to drive the groove, the Jeremiah Johnson Band promises an unforgettable night of music.
Tickets are available now at Metrotix.com or at the KPAC box office. The Strauss Black Box Theater is located inside the Kirkwood Performing Arts Center at 210 E. Monroe Avenue in Kirkwood, Missouri. Doors open at 7:00 PM, and the show starts at 7:30 PM. Whether you're a die-hard blues fan or simply looking for an extraordinary live music experience, this is one show you won't want to miss.
Purchase Tickets
Coffee Concert: Anita Rosamond
STRAUSS BLACK BOX THEATRE
Indulge in a melodic journey through the timeless classics of the Great American Songbook with Coffee Concerts @ KPAC. Sip unlimited cups of your favorite brew as we transport you to the golden era of music. Our series of enchanting performances celebrates the enduring allure of these legends, brought to life by exceptionally talented musicians. Join us at KPAC for an intimate musical rendezvous, where every note is a sip of nostalgia, and every chord is a taste of pure elegance. Let your senses savor the harmonious blend of coffee and melodies, creating a symphony of unforgettable moments.
Coffee and donuts sponsored by Dunkin' Donuts.
Tickets on sale soon
Dance Center of Kirkwood presents The Nutcracker Ballet
ROSS FAMILY THEATRE
Presented by Dance Center of Kirkwood
The magic of the season comes to life in this stunning production of the Nutcracker Ballet. Colorful costumes, breathtaking music, and over 50 local, classically trained dancers make this performance a true holiday tradition.
The Dance Center of Kirkwood presents its annual Nutcracker Ballet in November of each year. The production lasts approximately two hours with one 15-minute intermission. All ages are welcome!
Purchase Tickets Here.
Dance Center of Kirkwood presents The Nutcracker Ballet
ROSS FAMILY THEATRE
Presented by Dance Center of Kirkwood
The magic of the season comes to life in this stunning production of the Nutcracker Ballet. Colorful costumes, breathtaking music, and over 50 local, classically trained dancers make this performance a true holiday tradition.
The Dance Center of Kirkwood presents its annual Nutcracker Ballet in November of each year. The production lasts approximately two hours with one 15-minute intermission. All ages are welcome!
Purchase Tickets Here.
Sugar Plum Fairy Luncheon
Prior to the two matinee shows, Dance Center of Kirkwood will host a Sugar Plum Fairy Luncheon at the Kirkwood Performing Arts Center. Create new memories with that special child in your life before attending the Nutcracker Ballet. Attendees will enjoy a delicious lunch with sweet treats, engage in crafts, and receive a visit from Mrs. Claus. Look out for appearances from some of the cast of the Nutcracker!
Tickets for Luncheon sold separately. Go to www.dancecenterkirkwood.com or call (314) 821-6663.
Dawn Weber’s SWUNK featuring Aska Maret
STRAUSS BLACK BOX THEATRE
This unique St. Louis project brings Trumpet, Vocalist, Composer, and Songwriter, Dawn Weber with special guest, Aska Maret on electric violin together. These 2 jazz female musicians from opposite sides of the globe make magic when they are teamed up with some of St. Louis finest rhythm section players. This project called Swunk incorporates the 3 essential elements of Jazz: Swing, Blues, and Improvisation. What is Swunk? Take Swing, Blues, Hip-Hop, Soul and Funk, fuse it together and you get Swunk. St. Louis has such a special music scene and vibe. This original set was written in St. Louis, for St. Louis, and brought to life by St. Louis Musicians. You will leave with an uplifted soul and a pep in your step. Hope you can come check out this unique groovy group! This show will have your head boppin and grooving!
Purchase Tickets
Dance Center of Kirkwood presents The Nutcracker Ballet
ROSS FAMILY THEATRE
Presented by Dance Center of Kirkwood
The magic of the season comes to life in this stunning production of the Nutcracker Ballet. Colorful costumes, breathtaking music, and over 50 local, classically trained dancers make this performance a true holiday tradition.
The Dance Center of Kirkwood presents its annual Nutcracker Ballet in November of each year. The production lasts approximately two hours with one 15-minute intermission. All ages are welcome!
Purchase Tickets Here.
Dance Center of Kirkwood presents The Nutcracker Ballet
ROSS FAMILY THEATRE
Presented by Dance Center of Kirkwood
The magic of the season comes to life in this stunning production of the Nutcracker Ballet. Colorful costumes, breathtaking music, and over 50 local, classically trained dancers make this performance a true holiday tradition.
The Dance Center of Kirkwood presents its annual Nutcracker Ballet in November of each year. The production lasts approximately two hours with one 15-minute intermission. All ages are welcome!
Purchase Tickets Here.
Sugar Plum Fairy Luncheon
Prior to the two matinee shows, Dance Center of Kirkwood will host a Sugar Plum Fairy Luncheon at the Kirkwood Performing Arts Center. Create new memories with that special child in your life before attending the Nutcracker Ballet. Attendees will enjoy a delicious lunch with sweet treats, engage in crafts, and receive a visit from Mrs. Claus. Look out for appearances from some of the cast of the Nutcracker!
Tickets for Luncheon sold separately. Go to www.dancecenterkirkwood.com or call (314) 821-6663.
The Black Rep presents Pheonix Rising: In the Same Tongue
ROSS FAMILY THEATRE
The Black Rep Presents Dianne McIntyre: In the Same Tongue
A pioneering dance innovator, noted for decades of collaborations with leading forces in avant-garde jazz, Dianne McIntyre returns to The Black Rep with a major new work featuring a score by celebrated composer Diedre Murray and poems by Obie-winning playwright Ntozake Shange. This elegant and captivating work employs a live jazz ensemble and a company of dancers to explore the deep rivers of communication in our artistic expressions, in our personal expressions and in our cultural history expressions.
The Phoenix Rising Performance Series is presented with support from PNC Arts Alive and NEFA.
Additional development support for In the Same Tongue provided by The Ford Foundation, Baryshnikov Arts Center, Maggie Allesee National Center for Choreography, Dance Place/Alan M. Kriegsman Creative Residency, Doris Duke Foundation. It was made possible by the New England Foundation for the Arts' National Dance Project, with lead funding from the Doris Duke Foundation and The Mellon Foundation. In The Same Tongue is Commissioned by Walker Art Center, Northrop at the University of Minnesota, Duke University, Apollo Theater, Princeton University’s Lewis Center for the Arts’ Caroline Hearst Choreographer-In-Residence Program, ArtsEmerson and Thomas M. Neff.
Purchase Tickets Here.
Any Major Dudes: Steely Dan Tribute
STRAUSS BLACK BOX THEATRE
Any Major Dudes celebrates the music of the inimitable Steely Dan. Known for chart topping hits like “Rikki Don’t Lose That Number” and “Do it Again”, their music weaves infectious melodies with complex musical ideas, brought to life with an array of accomplished studio musicians. The sound of Steely Dan can quite simply be described as where Rock N’ Roll intersects with Jazz.
Any Major Dudes honors the meticulously crafted compositions, capturing not only the overarching melodies, but the quirkiness, the often cynical tone of the lyrics, and the subtle detail that defines the Steely Dan sound.
Any Major Dudes takes audiences on an journey of Steely Dan’s initial 7 studio albums, featuring the swerving guitar work of the 1972 classic, “Reelin’ in the Years”, the colorful piano arrangement of 1977’s, “Aja”, the up-tempo funky blues classic, “Peg”, and for the super-fans deep cuts such as, “Don’t Take me Alive” & “Sign in Stranger”. The powerful horns, the iconic guitar solos, the delicious piano chords, the grooving drums, and the distinct vocal stylings, Any Major Dudes is truly a show for Steely Dan fans by Steely Dan fans.
Purchase Tickets
The Black Rep presents Pheonix Rising: In the Same Tongue
ROSS FAMILY THEATRE
The Black Rep Presents Dianne McIntyre: In the Same Tongue
A pioneering dance innovator, noted for decades of collaborations with leading forces in avant-garde jazz, Dianne McIntyre returns to The Black Rep with a major new work featuring a score by celebrated composer Diedre Murray and poems by Obie-winning playwright Ntozake Shange. This elegant and captivating work employs a live jazz ensemble and a company of dancers to explore the deep rivers of communication in our artistic expressions, in our personal expressions and in our cultural history expressions.
The Phoenix Rising Performance Series is presented with support from PNC Arts Alive and NEFA.
Additional development support for In the Same Tongue provided by The Ford Foundation, Baryshnikov Arts Center, Maggie Allesee National Center for Choreography, Dance Place/Alan M. Kriegsman Creative Residency, Doris Duke Foundation. It was made possible by the New England Foundation for the Arts' National Dance Project, with lead funding from the Doris Duke Foundation and The Mellon Foundation. In The Same Tongue is Commissioned by Walker Art Center, Northrop at the University of Minnesota, Duke University, Apollo Theater, Princeton University’s Lewis Center for the Arts’ Caroline Hearst Choreographer-In-Residence Program, ArtsEmerson and Thomas M. Neff.