The Story of Starlight
1955 view of Starlight. Courtesy: Missouri State Archives
The idea for an open-air theatre in Kansas City began in the 1920s when the Kansas City Federation of Music Clubs started advocating for a venue where people could enjoy live performances in a natural setting. In 1926, Queen Marie of Romania’s visit to Kansas City sparked momentum for the theatre when a concert in her honor raised $7,000.
Despite this early momentum, progress stalled for decades. Temporary outdoor productions in the 1930s drew large crowds and raised more funds, but plans for a permanent venue remained unfinished.
It wasn’t until the late 1940s that the plan for Starlight finally took shape. Kansas City was preparing to celebrate its 100th anniversary in 1950, and organizers wanted to put on a grand outdoor production.
This provided the push needed to finally build a permanent venue. In 1947, voters approved a $500,000 bond issue, and the Kansas City Centennial Association contributed another $135,000 to speed up construction.
The Birth of Starlight Theatre
1950: Kansas City Centennial Celebration. Courtesy: KC Public Library
Construction began in December 1949 under architect Edward Buehler Delk. Nearly 150 workers rushed to finish the venue in time for Thrills of a Century, which opened June 3, 1950.
The production featured elaborate reenactments of Kansas City’s history, including the Battle of Westport and the arrival of the first train over the Hannibal Bridge, with thousands of residents attending each night.
The show’s success led to the theatre’s completion and its first full season the next year. On June 25, 1951, the venue premiered with The Desert Song, a romantic operetta composed by Sigmund Romberg.
Over the next decade, Starlight quickly became a beloved summer tradition, hosting Broadway musicals, variety shows, and concerts. Ticket prices started at just 65 cents, and 400 free seats were available each night, ensuring that performances were accessible to the entire community.
Growth, Challenges, and Revitalization
1955 production of Guys & Dolls. Courtesy: KC Public Library
By the 1960s, Starlight had become a fixture in Kansas City’s performing arts scene. It hosted some of the biggest names in entertainment, including Jerry Lewis, who in 1958 personally funded a temporary stage extension to bring performers closer to the audience.
President Harry S. Truman, a frequent guest, even made a brief stage appearance in a 1960s production of Mr. President before being taken to the hospital mid-performance with appendicitis.
Courtesy: Starlight Theatre
However, as audience preferences changed and production costs rose, Starlight faced financial challenges.
A turning point came in 1982 when Bob Rohlf was appointed general manager. Under his leadership, Starlight introduced contemporary concerts, bringing in artists like Bonnie Raitt, James Taylor, and Steve Miller. Broadway musicals returned, including The Wizard of Oz and Jesus Christ Superstar, and Starlight was once again thriving.
Current renovations include a canopy which will be completed in time for the 2026 season. Rendering courtesy of Starlight.
In the decades that followed, Starlight underwent major renovations to enhance the audience experience. In 2000, the 10-story Jeannette and Jerome Cohen Community Stage House was completed, giving Starlight one of the largest outdoor stages in the country and allowing touring Broadway productions to come to the Swope Park stage.
Starlight recently launched a $40 million Uniquely KC Campaign to enhance the visitor experience and expand programming. Renovations include a new seating canopy, upgraded stage production infrastructure, and improvements to parking and backstage areas. The full project is set to be completed in 2026.
Today, Starlight Theatre remains one of only two self-producing outdoor theatres in the U.S. (alongside The Muny in St. Louis). With nearly 8,000 seats, it continues to bring Broadway shows, concerts, and family entertainment to Kansas City.
Celebrate 75 Years This Summer
A visit to Starlight has been a summer tradition for families since the beginning. Shows including The Wizard of Oz, Peter Pan, Cinderella, The King and I, and The Sound of Music have thrilled children and families since the first season.
Exactly 75 years after that original opening night, School of Rock opened on June 3 featuring almost exclusively local actors and performers. What better way to celebrate a historic community icon than with a cast of Kansas Citians? Get ready for a visit to Starlight and continue the tradition!