Frequently Asked Questions

Whether you’ve visited us before or are coming to a show for the first time, sometimes it’s good just to have answers. Hopefully we’ve answered any questions you might have below to make sure you have a great experience. Is your question not listed? Call us at 816-235-2700!

COVID-19

What precautions are you taking to keep patrons safe?
KCRep is taking a variety of precautions to protect our audiences, staff, and artists. We have worked diligently with local and national health and industry experts on a comprehensive safe-return plan to be able to offer world-class theatre in the safest way possible. We continue to follow state and local health and safety guidelines regarding COVID-19.

For the most up-to-date KCRep COVID-19 audience protocols please visit kcrep.org/safety.

About KCREP

Who founded KCRep? How long have you been a theatre?
KCRep was founded in 1964 by Dr. Patricia Mcllrath. Learn more about the history of KCRep.

Where can I learn more about your education programs?
Our education programs include the Student Matinee Seriespre- and post-show conversations for patronsworkshop and residency programs for schools, and SYTE—our Summer Youth Theatre Ensemble. To learn more about these education programs, click here.

How can I connect with the actors and artisans who worked on my favorite show?
Attend an Actor’s Forum conversation after select performances, follow us on Instagram for a look behind-the-scenes, or enjoy our popular behind-the-scenes content: interviews with the local artists creating your favorite shows.

I love seeing shows at KCRep! How else can I get involved?
Thank you! There are many ways to deepen your support of KCRep: become a season ticket holder to get tickets to every show (as well as the best seats in the house!), make a donation to support KCRep’s programming, or offer your time as a volunteer.

Can I attend an Opening Night post-show party?
We celebrate Opening Night performances with a toast in the lobby after the performance, as well as words from the production’s Director. All who have a ticket to the Opening Night performance are invited and encouraged to attend! Our Opening Nights often sell out, so we recommend becoming an Opening Night Season Ticket holder if you’d like a guaranteed invitation to each party.

I’m a Young Professional. Do you have an affiliation group I can join?
Yes! Our $20/35 Club offers $20 tickets (as well as networking opportunities) to Young Professionals aged 35 and under.

How can I contact someone at KCRep?
Ticketing questions should be sent to Ticketing Services at tickets@kcrep.org or 816-235-2700 (please note: Box Office phone hours vary). Looking for something else? Send an email to info@kcrep.org and we’ll make sure your message gets to the right place.

Can I rent costumes/set pieces/etc. from KCRep?
At this moment, our rentals program is on pause and we are not currently renting out any items from our stock.

Accessibility

Where are the ADA-compliant parking spots and entrances to your theatre? Is your theatre accessible?
Our building, theatres, and classrooms are designed to be accessible. This includes accessible water fountains, restrooms, elevators, and automatic doors. At Spencer Theatre, ADA-compliant parking spots and an accessible entrance with automatic doors is located on the east side of the building, approachable via Rockhill Rd. Accessible parking at Copaken Stage is located on Level P2, next to the elevators.

Are your theatres accessible by public transit?
Yes! Spencer Theatre is a short 10-minute walk from the 51st Street Main Street Max bus stop (outside of Whole Foods). Get Directions. Copaken Stage is located on the KC Streetcar line (get off at the Power and Light stop, then walk 1-block north.) Get Directions.

Are there special effects like strobe lights, haze, smoke, or loud noises?
It’s possible, and we try and provide as much notice as we can if these effects will be used. Information about possible sensitivities will be included in your pre-show information email, on the show page for each production, and will be listed on signs outside of the theatre. If you have specific questions or concerns about a performance, don’t hesitate to contact Ticketing Services, who are more than happy to answer any questions you have about the show and possible sensitivities.

Do you offer any accommodations for deaf patrons and people with hearing difficulties?
Assistive Listening Devices are available for patrons who need additional amplification. Please contact Ticketing Services or speak with the House Manager prior to curtain to obtain a device.

Additionally, performances in our season are interpreted in American Sign Language on the 2nd Saturday of the run at 2pm for mainstage productions, and on December 3rd at 5pm for A Christmas Carol. ASL interpretation will be provided by Juliana Ladd, Jasmine Velasco, and Lisa Wirken. Please see information on specific shows for scheduled ASL interpreted performances (Look for “ASL Signed performance” on the show calendar). We strongly recommend that when purchasing tickets, you identify that you will be utilizing ASL interpretation in order to be seated accordingly.

Do you offer any accommodations for blind patrons and people with limited vision?
Live Audio Description may be available for your performance. Please contact ticketing services as far in advance as possible to inquire. If you need assistance choosing seats, our friendly Ticketing Services Team is happy to help you find the best seats for your needs. Contact us via phone or email for assistance.

Braille and Large Print programs are available for every performance. Please inquire with Front of House staff when you arrive for the performance.

Where is the ADA-compliant accessible seating located in your theatres?
Within our Spencer Theatre, ADA-compliant seating for wheelchairs is located in rows F and Q. At Copaken Stage, ADA-compliant seating for wheelchairs is located in rows A, J and T. If you would like to purchase tickets in these sections, or need to exchange tickets you currently have for those with wheelchair access, please contact Ticketing Services.

Do you offer sensory-friendly performances?
At this time, we do not have sensory-friendly performances scheduled. However, we have sensory kits available for checkout during performances at Coat Check. Sensory kits include noise-cancelling headsets, sunglasses, a weighted blanket, and fidget toys. These items are designed to help provide sensory regulation for those affected by the sights and sounds of live theatre. Sensory kits are generously provided free of charge by Variety KC.

Tickets and Packages

How can I purchase tickets?
Tickets can be purchased online 24/7, or over the phone at 816.235.2700 during Box Office hours.

Where is your Box Office? What are Box Office Hours?
We have Box Office locations within our administrative office, as well as at both of our theatres. In an effort to protect our patrons and staff during the COVID-19 pandemic, our Box Office is currently not open to the public. To purchase tickets or make a donation at this time, please email Ticketing Services at tickets@kcrep.org, call at 816.235.2700, or visit us online.

What are mobile tickets?
Mobile tickets are an easy and free way to receive your performance tickets in your email inbox. You don’t have to worry about misplacing your paper tickets, or paying for their delivery… your tickets are easily accessible on your mobile phone or desktop, and can be printed out on your home computer if you prefer to have paper in-hand. You can also access them online in your KCRep account. Click here to learn more.

What ticket discounts do you offer?
There are many ways to save on KCRep tickets: we offer a variety of discounts for local groups, students, young professionals and more! Sign up for our Email Club to get the inside scoop on flash sales, or visit our Ticket Discounts page to learn about ongoing offers.

How can I get the best prices on tickets?
Our Season Ticket holders (formerly “subscribers”) get the best prices on the best seats in the house, saving anywhere from 10% to 60% off of regular ticket prices! Visit our Season Tickets page to learn more.

We are a large group—can we get discounted tickets?
We’re happy to offer discounted group tickets to parties of 9 or more. To learn more, visit our Groups page, email tickets@kcrep.org, or call 816-235-5771.

Can I return/exchange my ticket(s)?
KCRep Season Ticket holders have free and flexible ticket exchanges: simply call us at 816-235-2700 at least 2 hours before your scheduled performance, and we’ll help you pick a new date.
Single ticket purchases that are not part of Season Ticket packages are nonrefundable. You may exchange into another performance of the same production with a $4 per ticket exchange fee, where seating is available. All exchanges must be made at least 2 hours prior to performance time. For all patrons with an exchange into a performance or seat location of higher ticket value, there will be an upcharge for the difference in the ticket price at the time of exchange. We do not need your original tickets to complete an exchange. Call Ticketing Services to discuss your options or email tickets@kcrep.org.

Tickets purchased through a reseller cannot be refunded or exchanged by KCRep. Contact them directly to inquire about obtaining a refund.

Will KCRep cancel my indoor performance in the event of inclement weather?
KCRep rarely cancels performances due to inclement weather. Patrons should always put safety first when considering traveling to the theatre. In the unlikely instance that we cancel a performance, all efforts will be made to announce cancellation at least 2 hours before the scheduled start of the show by email and through our website, KCRep.org. If KCRep performs as scheduled, best efforts may be made to accommodate those patrons unable to attend the performance due to severe or inclement weather, by offering the option of moving to another future performance of the same production (exchange and seat upgrade fees will apply). We cannot guarantee seating in this case, especially if the weather event occurs near the close of a production. Contact Ticketing Services at tickets@kcrep.org, or call 816-235-2700 during regular business hours to discuss options.

Will KCRep cancel my outdoor performance in the event of inclement weather?
If an outdoor special event is cancelled due to inclement weather, we will attempt to contact you at least 2 hours prior to the scheduled performance. You can opt-in to a text messaging alert service at the time you purchase your tickets, or by contacting Ticketing Services at tickets@kcrep.org. If your performance in cancelled, we will make an effort to reschedule your tickets for a later performance of the same production. If you are unable to attend a later performance, you will be given the option to make a tax-deductible donation of the cost of your tickets to our non-profit theatre company or request a refund. If you miss a performance that occurs, exchanges and refunds are not available.

KCRep does not offer refunds if the performance has occurred. All sales are final.

Tickets purchased through a reseller will not be refunded. Contact them to inquire about obtaining a refund.

Getting To The Theatre

Where are your theatres?
KCRep has two locations: Spencer Theatre on the UMKC campus, close to the Plaza (4949 Cherry Street, Kansas City, MO 64110), and Copaken Stage, located in the H&R Block headquarters, downtown in the Power & Light District (1 H&R Block Way, Kansas City, MO 64105).

Special events may occur at alternate venues. Double check your tickets to get detailed information about the location of your performance.

Where can I park my car? Is there a cost to park?
Parking is always free at our Spencer Theatre and Copaken Stage locations for KCRep patrons!

  • Spencer Theatre: 4949 Cherry Street, Kansas City, MO 64110 Get Directions
    Patrons may park cars in the faculty lot adjacent to the theatre, or on Levels 5 and 6 of the garage at 50th & Cherry Streets. An elevated covered walkway to Spencer Theatre is located on level 5.
  • Copaken Stage: 1 H&R Block Way, Kansas City, MO 64105  Get Directions
    Patrons may park cars in the garage beneath the building (13th & Walnut) on Levels 2-5 via Main St. or Walnut St. between 13th and 14th streets. From the garage, take the elevator to the main lobby (Level L) and continue past the waterfall toward Copaken Stage.

I received a parking pass with my ticket—do I really need it?
Yes! UMKC hangtags are required for weeknight performances held at Spencer Theatre on the UMKC campus. If you did not receive a parking hangtag, or if you cannot print the parking pass included with your mobile ticket, you can retrieve one in the Spencer Theatre lobby on the date of your performance.

Are your theatres accessible by public transit?
Yes! Spencer Theatre is a short 10-minute walk from the 51st Street Main Street Max bus stop (outside of Whole Foods). Get Directions.
Copaken Stage is located on the KC Streetcar line (get off at the Power and Light stop, then walk 1-block north.) Get Directions.

What if I bike or scoot to the theatre? Where do I lock up?
KCRep offers bike racks at both locations so you can easily secure your bike or scooter.

  • Spencer Theatre: 4949 Cherry Street, Kansas City, MO 64110  Get Directions
    A bike rack is located on the west side of the building, near the White Recital Hall entrance. A RideKC Bike Share docking station, as well as rentable bikes and e-bikes, are located across the street from Spencer Theatre, just south of the Atterbury Student Success center, near the entrance to Pierson Hall. Learn more about Bike Share on the UMKC campus.
  • Copaken Stage: 1 H&R Block Way, Kansas City, MO 64105  Get Directions.
    Patrons may park their bikes in the garage beneath the building (13th & Walnut) on Level 2 via Main St. or Walnut St. between 13th and 14th streets. A bicycle rack is located next to the elevators on level P2. From the garage, take the elevator to the main lobby (Level L) and continue past the waterfall toward Copaken Stage. A RideKC Bike Share docking station, as well as rentable bikes and e-bikes, are located near the theatre at 13th and Grand.

Where are the ADA-compliant entrances to your theatre? Is your theatre accessible?
Our building, theatres, and classrooms are designed to be accessible. This includes accessible water fountains, restrooms, elevators, and automatic doors. At Spencer Theatre, ADA-compliant parking spots and an accessible entrance with automatic doors is located on the east side of the building, approachable via Rockhill Rd. Accessible parking at Copaken Stage is located on Level P2, next to the elevators.

Before The Show

I’m new to the performing arts: what should I expect?
Welcome! We’re so glad that you are here! KCRep strives to create an accessible and enjoyable theatre experience for all of our guests, and we can’t wait to welcome you into our home.
When you arrive at the theatre, there is plenty to do in the lobby: enjoy food and drink from our concession stand, chat with your fellow theatre lovers, or attend a pre-show conversation. Before the show begins, please note the signs located next to the theatre entrances: they will tell you how long the play is, whether or not there is an intermission, and any sensitivities (such as smoke effects or strobes) that you should be made aware of. Depending on the length of the performance, you may want to use the restroom before you take your seat. (And be aware that lines for the restroom can get long at intermission!)
The theatre itself will open approximately 30 minutes before curtain. Enter the theatre from the door specified on your ticket and, if you need assistance, look for one of our friendly ushers. They can help you find your seat and will give you a free program containing information about the show. Turn off your cell phone and settle into your chair. When the lights go down, the show is about to start! Lean in and enjoy!

How should I dress?
We don’t have a dress code at KCRep — come as you are! Many people wear what they would wear to the movies (shirt and shoes required.) We also recommend bringing a light sweater or jacket with you into the theatre in case you get cold.

How soon before a performance should I arrive?
We recommend that you arrive at the theatre 45 minutes to an hour before the curtain time listed on your tickets. This will give you plenty of time to find the theatre and enjoy our lobby amenities.

How will I know that the performance is about to start?
Look for the blinking lights! Five minutes before a performance is to start, or when intermission is about to end, the lights in our lobby will blink. This is your cue to return to your seat.

What should I do if I arrive late?
If you are late, please find a KCRep staff member in the lobby. You will be seated at the discretion of house management. To avoid disrupting other patrons, you may be seated in the back or delayed until intermission.

Do you have a concession stand?
Yes! Our concession stand opens one hour before each performance. We offer a full bar as well as light snacks such as cookies. Please note that drinks are allowed in the theatre, but food is not. We ask that you finish all snacks in the lobby.

Boulevard Brewing Co.
Beer provided by Boulevard Brewing Company


Wine and Spirits provided by Lohr Distributing


Spirits provided by J. Rieger & Co.

Do you have any suggestions on where to have dinner nearby?
KCRep patrons receive a 15% discount at Bristol Seafood + Steak + Social located in downtown Kansas City right next to Power & Light, and a 20% discount at Café Trio on the Plaza! Show ticket on performance date (on phone or printed copy) to receive this discount. Applies to food only – excludes alcohol and happy hour items. Reservations recommended. Dine-in only. Cannot be combined with any other offer or discount.

Do you give out programs? Can I read the program before the show?
Yes! Our program is chock-full of information to help you better enjoy and understand the show.

Photography Release
Your attendance at the theatre serves as permission to appear in photographs or video taken in public areas of the theatre.

During The Show

Are there special effects like strobe lights, haze, smoke, or loud noises?
It’s possible, and we try and provide as much notice as we can if these effects will be used. Information about possible sensitivities will be included in your pre-show information email, on the show page for each production, and will be listed on signs outside of the theatre. If you have specific questions or concerns about a performance, don’t hesitate to contact Ticketing Services, who are more than happy to answer any questions you have about the show and possible sensitivities.

What accessibility accommodations do you offer?
Yes! From Sensory Kits to Assistive Listening Devices to seating for wheelchairs, we offer many accessibility accommodations. Visit the Accessibility section to learn about these accommodations.

Where is the ADA-compliant accessible seating located in your theatres?
Within our Spencer Theatre, ADA-compliant seating for wheelchairs is located in row F. At Copaken Stage, ADA-compliant seating for wheelchairs is located in rows A, J and T. If you would like to purchase tickets in these sections, or need to exchange tickets you currently have for those with wheelchair access, please contact Ticketing Services.

Can I bring children? What ages do you recommend this show for?
We recommend theatre for all ages, and suggest that you begin bringing your children to the theatre when they are able to sit quietly in a seat for extended periods of time. Parents should use their best judgement when deciding whether a show’s content is appropriate for their children. We encourage you to read more about our performances here on the website, or contact Ticketing Services at tickets@kcrep.org or 816-235-2700 to inquire if any performances have content that might be objectionable to those under 18. Regardless of age, a ticket is required for every person entering the theatre.

Does this show contain nudity or adult language? How can I find out about content?
We make our best efforts to list any sensitive content, such as nudity or strong language, on each performance’s show page. If you have concerns about content, contact Ticketing Services who can help inform you.

Can I take photos or videos of the performance?
You are permitted to take photos/videos before the show begins, and we encourage you to have fun taking selfies in our Lobby Photobooth. Once the show begins, the use of all cameras and recording devices in the theatre is strictly prohibited for the safety of our actors and in accordance with the rules of Actors Equity Association.

Should I turn off my cell phone during the performance?
Yes. Please put your phone on Silent, preferably in Airplane or Sleep mode, so that it does not chime or buzz. Nothing is more disruptive to the live theatre experience than the chiming or vibrating of phone notifications.

A Christmas Carol

When do tickets for KCRep’s A Christmas Carol go on sale?
Tickets for our annual production of A Christmas Carol go on sale in July. Want early access to tickets next season? Sign up for our Email Club to be notified when tickets go on sale, or become a Season Ticket holder to get an invitation to VIP Week (first access to tickets in early July, before they go on sale to the General Public.)

What makes KCRep’s A Christmas Carol such an iconic holiday tradition for Kansas City audiences?
KCRep’s A Christmas Carol is full of magical moments, including cheerful songs, dance, a candlelight carol, and meaningful interactive moments that will put you in the holiday spirit during this festive time of year. Buy your tickets early to secure premium tickets in our legendary Glitter Row for an up-close moment with The Ghost of Christmas Present, and get covered in a magical burst of glitter – great for kids and kids at heart!

Do you offer discounts for A Christmas Carol?
We want to make A Christmas Carol affordable for everyone who wants to celebrate the holiday with us! For discounted tickets, look for our Scrooge Saver dates, indicated with a red hat icon on the performance calendar when tickets go on sale this summer. These already discounted tickets sell out quickly, so act fast! Youth Tickets are also available for kids 16 and under by contacting Ticketing Services at 816-235-2700.

Do you offer a child discount on tickets to A Christmas Carol?
Yes! When tickets go on sale this summer, contact Ticketing Services at 816-235-2700 for discounted tickets for youth age 16 and under. Prices vary by performance. Discounts not available on prior purchases.

Can I take my family holiday photo at the theatre?
Yes! In our Spencer Theatre lobby, you’ll find beautifully decorated holiday scenes, including our legendary 18’ Christmas tree! Grab a group photo at no additional cost, and you’ll remember the holiday magic you share with your family for years to come.

How can I share the magic of A Christmas Carol with my office, church, or community group?
We’re happy to offer discounted group tickets to parties of 9 or more. To learn more, visit our Groups page or call 816-235-5771.

Can I host my Christmas party at the theatre?
Yes! Our upstairs premium Donor Lounge can be booked for a variety of events, including holiday parties! Packages are available at multiple price points, and we’ll put you in touch with KCRep’s preferred caters to make your holiday party extra special. Enjoy a pre-show event followed by a performance of A Christmas Carol. To learn more, visit our Groups page.

Student Matinee Series

Where are you located?
Spencer Theatre is located at the James C. Olson Performing Arts Center, 4949 Cherry, Kansas City, MO, 64110 on the UMKC Campus. Your school bus should enter the parking area from Rockhill Road and merge into the drive in front of the Performing Arts Center (marked Bixby Lane). When you arrive at the theatre, please stay on your buses! A staff member will greet your bus and let you know how to proceed.

Copaken Stage is located at 13th and Walnut, inside the H&R Block Building, downtown. (The exact address is: One H&R Block Way, Kansas City, MO 64105.)

Can we take photos or videos of the performance?
The use of cameras and other recording devices is a violation of the actors’ contracts. We ask that you refrain from taking photos or videos during the production. However, you are welcome to take photos of students in the lobby or in the theatre before the performance begins. It is also important to remember that electronic and recording devices should not be brought inside the theatre. This includes pen lights, hand-held games, virtual pets, cell phones, mp3 players, pagers, ipods and bright or noisy jewelry.

Can we take food or drinks into the theatre?
No. There is no food, drinks or gum allowed in the theatre during the performance.

Can we bring sack lunches?
Sack lunches can be stored by the House Management staff until after the performance. They cannot be consumed in the lobby before or during the production.

Is there a concession stand?
Snacks will be sold at intermission but cannot be taken into the theatre. Please alert students to this policy so that they will not buy more than they can enjoy during intermission. Please let your students know to bring one dollar bills if they would like to purchase concessions. This will ensure the line moves swiftly.

I have a student with special needs. What should I do?
We require a minimum of two weeks notice in order to accommodate your student’s needs. This includes accommodations for students who use wheelchairs as well as for students with hearing or vision impairments. Please note that tickets for para-professionals should be included in your ticket count. Everyone entering the theatre will need a ticket.

How are we seated?
Theatre seating is assigned and based on sequence in which reservations and payments are received, talkback attendance, disability considerations, and group size.

Where should teachers and chaperones sit?
We ask that the teacher/chaperones sit among their students in various areas in order to encourage positive behavior. We ask that there be one adult seated between every ten students. You will be seated in the order you are standing in line to enter the theatre; please ensure your chaperones are spaced accordingly. Actors appreciate audience response that is appropriate to the play. By no means does the Rep want to discourage laughter or applause during a performance. However, talking, whispering, shouting or any inappropriate responses which are disruptive to the actors or to the rest of the audience is not tolerated. If behavior problems arise, we ask that a teacher or chaperone accompany the student to the theatre lobby and remain with the student until the end of the play.

What if there is bad weather?
Please note that Kansas City Repertory Theatre shall be under no liability for failure of the group to attend in the event that such failure is caused by, or due to, inclement weather, interruption or delay of transportation services, or any other similar or dissimilar cause beyond the control of the company. Due to the nature of live theater, performances may be cancelled without notice. Should this occur, the Education Department will make every effort to notify you and will attempt to move your group into another student matinee performance whenever possible. Once final payment has been received, per the Rep’s ticket policy, we are unable to refund payment made for reservations.

Is it possible to talk with the cast?
There is a 20-minute Q. & A. discussion with the actors following the performance. If your group needs to leave after the play, we understand, and need to know beforehand. However, we encourage you to stay for this unique learning experience.

My bus driver wants to see the show. Does she/he need a ticket?
Yes! Each person planning to see the play will need a ticket to give the ushers in order to enter the theatre. This includes all students, chaperones, para-professionals and drivers. If your bus driver will be attending the performance, please remember to give them their ticket prior to entering the theatre.

Are tickets available for purchase at the door?
Extra tickets will not be available on the day of performance. If you need to increase your seat count prior to the performance day, please contact Melinda McCrary, Director of Education, and she can let you know if additional seats are available for purchase.

What should we wear?
Dress for the weather. You may wear dress clothes in order to make the theatre field trip a special one, but it is not required. Please be advised that, at times, it may be chilly in the theatre.

How can we let the performers and artists know what we thought?
After your visit, take time to discuss and reflect with your students and tell us about your experiences. We can share your feedback with artists and funders who make these productions possible. Please send your letters to: Melinda McCrary, Director of Education, Kansas City Repertory Theatre, 4825 Troost, #101, Kansas City, MO 64110.

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