The Starlight Theatre has a rather curious and rich history dating back to a visit by Romania’s Queen Marie in 1925. The need for an appropriate venue for showcasing local talent developed into a vision that was realized in 1949 when construction finally began at Swope Park. The theater stands as one of the last remaining self-producing outdoor theaters in America, and is renowned for the quality of its homegrown shows.
The Starlight Theatre is more compact than many similar venues however, what it lacks in size it makes up for in atmosphere. The smaller venue creates a more intimate setting, with the front row sitting incredibly close to the stage. Clear, starry nights finish off the perfect setting for a family night out.
The Starlight Theatre is a major venue for large-scale performances in Kansas City. Performances are held almost nightly and include world-class, locally produced Broadway productions. Past performances have included Chicago, Mamma Mia, The Wizard of Oz and Grease. On other nights you might find comedy shows, music concerts or dance performances.
If weather looks unfavorable on the night of your performance, bring a raincoat or poncho. You can bring an umbrella into the theater, but you are not permitted to open it in the seating area. The show goes on regardless of weather and even if you get a bit damp, you don’t want to miss out on a performance here.
The Starlight Theatre is located inside Swope Park, about a 15-minute drive south of the center of Kansas City. Performance times vary depending on the time of year and type of show, so be sure to check before booking. Tickets can be purchased at the theater before the performance however, it is highly recommended to book before hand. Parking is available for a small fee.
Starlight Theatre
Visit Starlight Theatre
Plan a trip to see Starlight Theatre
Ameristar Casino Hotel Kansas City
Reviewed on Sep 17, 2024
Hilton Kansas City Country Club Plaza
Reviewed on Sep 18, 2024
Browse tours and tickets to explore Starlight Theatre
Tours & day trips
See all 25 activitiesOpens in new tabKansas City Fun Tours
Private & custom tours
See all 7 activitiesOpens in new tabKansas City: Steamboats, Gangsters & Lady Bosses
Adventure & outdoor
See all 5 activitiesOpens in new tabTwo Flight Indoor Skydiving Experience
Attractions
See all 5 activitiesOpens in new tabSEA LIFE Kansas City Aquarium
Reviews of Starlight Theatre
5/5 - Excellent
You don’t need to go so early to the concert because there is a lot of parking spaces. You are able to enjoy food inside or eat nearby. I highly suggest paying for the grass parking. You are right next to the gate entrence. You are not able to bring a professional camera inside so bring your nice phone camera or pocket camera.
5/5 - Excellent
Get an uber if you can and walk in. Parking and leaving looked like a nightmare.
5/5 - Excellent
An absolute must for theatre afficionados.
Popular places to visit
Kansas City Zoo
Take a trip through an African plain, as well as meeting animals from other parts of the world, at this city zoo.
Swope Park
The largest park in Kansas City is filled with opportunities for activity and exploration. Enjoy the zoo, a Broadway show, hiking and a range of other activities.
National Museum of Toys and Miniatures
Revisit your youth at this museum that houses one of the largest collections of dolls, bears and miniature sets in the Midwest.
Ewing and Muriel Kauffman Memorial Garden
Explore the great outdoors at Ewing and Muriel Kauffman Memorial Garden, a lovely green space in Kansas City. Experience the area's acclaimed art scene and entertainment choices.
Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
Home to some of the world’s most iconic works of art, this globally recognized museum also offers one of Kansas City’s best outdoor spaces.
Van Noy Mansion
Find out about the history of Kansas City when you take a trip to Van Noy Mansion. Experience the area's entertainment choices or attend a sporting event.
Best Lodging Options Near Starlight Theatre
Check availability on hotels close to Starlight Theatre
- Vacations and getaways similar to Starlight Theatre
- Other Hotels near Starlight Theatre, Kansas City
- Hotels near popular Kansas City Attractions
- Expedia's Latest Trends
- Seville Plaza Hotel, Trademark Collection by Wyndham
- Hotel Westport Kansas City, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
- Southmoreland on the Plaza an Urban Inn
- Hotel Lotus
- Newly Renovated Stylish 3rd Floor Apartment 5 mins from Country Club Plaza
- Best Western Plus Kansas City Sports Complex Hotel
- 2-story dog-friendly home with pool table, full kitchen, washer/dryer, Xbox, AC