Folly Theater

The Folly Theater, located at the corner of 12th and Central Streets in downtown Kansas City, Missouri, is a historic performance venue with a storied past and a vibrant present. Since its establishment in 1900, the theater has been an integral part of Kansas City's cultural landscape, witnessing the evolution of the downtown area into a flourishing arts and cultural hub. Originally opened at the turn of the 20th century, the Folly Theater has undergone significant changes over the years, including a major renovation that led to its reopening in 1981. This renovation was a pivotal moment for the theater, which began to offer children's programming shortly thereafter with the inception of the Folly Kids' Series. This initiative, which started as one of the few opportunities for children's programming at the time, has continued to provide curriculum-based performances by national and international touring theater troupes. The Folly Kids' Series is particularly notable for making the arts accessible to all children, regardless of their economic background, through the generous support of donors who provide the "Gift of the Arts." The Folly Theater prides itself on being a "jewel box of a theater," a description that highlights its intimate and ornate architectural features. The theater's marquee and flashing lights are a well-known sight on 12th Street, symbolizing the timeless allure of show business. As part of its ongoing commitment to the community and the arts, the Folly Theater has announced plans for significant renovations, aiming to reach a fundraising goal of $1.56 million. This effort underscores the theater's reliance on community support and the generosity of thousands of donors to continue its legacy. The Folly Theater is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with a vision to enhance life through the power of the arts. Its mission is to preserve Kansas City's oldest historic theater as a premier performance venue by maintaining its heritage, diversifying its program and entertainment offerings, and actively participating in the revitalization of downtown Kansas City. In addition to the Folly Kids' Series, the theater offers a range of performances, including a Jazz & Americana Season Program, and provides various ways for the community to engage with and support the arts. These include sponsorships, fundraisers, volunteer opportunities, and special events like the Folly Frolic and Folly Garden Party. The Folly Theater's executive director, Gale Tallis, has been a driving force behind the theater's initiatives, emphasizing the importance of the arts in shaping innovative, creative thinkers and future leaders. The theater's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion is also evident in its operations and outreach efforts. As the Folly Theater looks to the future, it continues to invite the community to join in its endeavors, whether through attending performances, participating in events, or contributing to its fundraising efforts. With a rich history and a clear vision for the future, the Folly Theater remains a cherished institution in Kansas City, dedicated to bringing the joy and inspiration of the performing arts to audiences of all ages.