RSS 2.0 FeedSeptember 21, 2011, Local Arts News
Impressions of a new landmark
Dance contributor Laura Vernaci explored the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts on Sunday. From the parking garage to entry space to the two striking halls, she hailed the KCPA as a "world-class venue."
Oddly enough, the first of many impressive elements to the new grandiose Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts was the parking garage. Built underground away from bird’s eye, the city-run garage is expansive and well-thought out. Although traffic was heavy, entering and exiting the four-floor garage was a smooth, organized process and there were plenty of elevators and stairways to accommodate future sold-out performances.
Once above ground, and despite the dreary overcast, attendees marveled in two amazing views. First, of course, was the Kauffman Center itself. The majestic, modern building was even more stunning up close as the intricacies of the support cable and wire system with the full-glass facade became visible. The other view actually was facing away from the structure and taking in the Kansas City skyline.
The sharp exterior lines carried inside to contrast with the stark white walls, rounded walkways, and sparse adornments. The two architectural designs meet in the middle of the structure, also known as the Brandmeyer Great Hall. From here, guests can again stare off into the distance of the Kansas City landscape or can choose to enter one of the two halls.
Facing north, the Muriel Kauffman Theatre is to the left, distinctly marked by the red carpet walkways. The 1,800-seat house is lavish with corresponding red chairs and sections finished with light gold lit up glass, which gives the appearance of crinkled aluminum foil. Behind the box seats are colorful floor to ceiling art murals created by students of the Kansas City Art Institute. As the lights dim, the seemingly brown curtain shimmers a deep gold, and opens to reveal the 5,000-square-foot stage which will be home to the Kansas City Ballet and Lyric Opera of Kansas City. The stage boasts a 90-musician orchestra pit, seven panels of marley, five wings, a trap door, and a 74-foot tall fly tower. The elegant and awe-inspiring space is one to breathe in and observe upon entering for the first time. Though slightly more accommodating than the 1,650-seat Lyric Theatre, the Muriel Kauffman Theatre feels much larger but may not have a bad seat in the house.
On the opposite side of the building is the Helzberg Hall, which will deservedly host the Kansas City Symphony. The Helzberg Hall incorporates every component desirable for a symphony concert hall. Made out of Alaskan Cedar, the 1,600-seat house wraps around the open stage. Directly behind the stage, is a 150-seat chorus loft and directly behind it is the much anticipated custom-built 5,548-piece pipe organ. The walkways leading into and out of the hall are flanked with Royals-esque bright blue carpeting.
Overall, the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts is a world-class venue expected to honor local artists and attendees as well as attract national and international organizations and tourists. No doubt Kansas Citians deserve such a landmark and it will do great things not only for the performing arts community but the economy as well. My only hope is it won’t wholly replace or get rid of the unique, intimate, historical theatres that have gotten us this far, such as the Lyric and the Folly.
For tours, please visit www.kauffmancenter.org or call 816-994-7247. Here’s to a grand opening season!
Top Photo: Kauffman Center Open House (Photo by Susan Jones Mertz)
Dance Contributor
Laura Vernaci is a Kansas City native who has always been passionate about the arts, particularly dance. She began dance lessons at the young age of five and hasn't stopped since. She trained at the Kansas City Ballet where she became a serious dancer and learned about a professional company.
She attended Butler University in Indianapolis, IN where she majored in dance. She transferred to Truman State University in Kirksville, MO in 2006 and received a degree in Journalism in May 2008. Laura spent the 2008-2009 in Duluth, MN dancing professionally for the Minnesota Ballet. She performed in productions such as, "The Nutcracker," "Cinderella" and "Coppelia" as well as world premier ballets created on the company.
She recently moved back to Kansas City and is excited to combine her experience in writing with her passion for dance. In addition to performing and writing, Laura also enjoys teaching dance and choreographing.
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