We attended a great jazz show by Terri Lyne Carrington at the theater. It was my first time attending a show there. The building is so lovely. Beautiful architecture. It's older and the only disadvantage to this is the seating is not on levels like a more modern theater. As a person who is 5'2, I had to constantly try to move around in my seat to get a view between people's heads in the rows in front of me. I could never get really comfortable but that was my only complaint. If o were wealthier, I'd grab some of the box seats. That looks like fun! The show was fantastic and Carrington and her magnificent band performed music of resistance! She and her band did a twist on one of Max Roach's albums, We Insist! Starting out with the great Driva'Man. I enjoyed it so much! I know the theater is having an art auction to raise money soon of you love art especially local artists, this would be a great event to support. I'd love to go back to see more shows and plays. read more

Folly Theater - Waiting to get into the show! - Performing Arts Near Me - Kansas City, Missouri

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Gorgeous Historic Venue, wonderful performances, great location downtown. I've seen jazz concerts, cabaret shows, local talent and touring shows. There is a parking garage to the west, street parking, or public transit. There is a concession stand in the lobby and they allow refreshments into the theater. I prefer the main floor, near the front. There is a balcony, the seats are narrow, and they have box seats as well. The bathrooms are small for the size of the venue, so there is usually a line. read more

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Love to see the KC Ballet adding more family programming, and we joined a host of others for a sold out adaptation of Beauty and the Beast. It was enjoyable, the Folly is cool, and the flow of everything here needs a tiny bit of reworking. First, you have to love the old historical landmark type of theaters where the energy and craftsmanship put into them lives on. The auditorium itself is small, but can pack in quite a few people. Upstairs, you better have your legs and balance because it can definitely be a little disorienting with the stacked seating. The parking garage is nice and easy in the sense that it's next to the Folly and pre-pay as you go in. There will likely be a line of cars to get into the garage but with some patience it all works out. From the second we got into the building, it was claustrophobically PACKED. The ticket takers were right by the door, and at the confluence of people waiting in line for drinks and snacks. I think opening up the doors on the east end to help create multiple lines would be helpful. The bathroom lines bottled up, people meeting each other bottled up, and it felt more condensed in here than it may need to. I think adding some selfie stations and other things further down the hallway may help the flow from backing up each time. As busy as it felt also reassuring to see so many people out and about. Glad people still care about human performance and the arts! All in all, a nice theater and we had a good time. The show was enjoyable and a compact 1 hour performance which was great for the kids. I'll keep eyes on other opportunities to come down here when we can. read more

What a beautiful theater! I've been here a couple times for family friendly ballets and have enjoyed the beauty of both the theater and the ballet! It's nice that there is a parking garage right next door and it's super easy to get to the theater from. As you can imagine, traffic can get busy in front of the theater, especially because it's a one way street, but they had officers conducting traffic, which was so helpful! Traffic getting into the actual theater on the other hand could be better. They scan your ticket right when you walk in the door, so it's kind of chaotic at first with non clear lines of where to go or who is in line. Once that is over though and you're headed to your seat, it's smooth sailing. There's concessions that you can enjoy before/during the show, which is so nice! If you get a chance to see something at this theater, I would recommend it! It's also a plus that they have kid friendly events here! read more

Folly Theater - Stage - Performing Arts Near Me - Kansas City, Missouri

Went to the Folly Theatre for the first time in my life to see Samara Joy concert. The venue was beautiful! There is no doubt about that...but the balcony seats are TOO SMALL. I was not the only person in the show who had this issue. Everyone in our section had the same complaint. So much so that one person asked the ushers if he could sit on the aisle steps. I am 5'11" tall, and it was almost unbearable. I was seated next to a lady. She and I had to angle our knees away from each other, with our shoulders resting on the other person, just to get some form of relief. My knees have been swollen for about a week now. Again, the venue is beautiful, but I was in so much pain that I could not fully enjoy the experience. read more

If you are looking for the newest and most technologically tricked out theater that you can find, then pass on by. But if you are looking for an intimate, well-preserved, historical venue, then the Folly Theater is exactly what you need. The Folly is Kansas City's oldest theater and is one of the oldest west of the Mississippi, even appearing on the National Historic Places registry. The venue has been saved and refurbished and is used for anything from jazz concerts to business presentations. That is a far cry from its position as a burlesque house many decades ago, much of which is memorialized with fantastic photographs upstairs. But if you like arena rock or large venues for your entertainment, then this isn't going to work. But if you like to feel as if the entertainer or the speaker has invited you to a small gathering for a performance or a discussion, then this is the best place in town. The acoustics are just right, and the intimacy of the space is felt no matter who is performing. There is an outstanding Ed Dwight sculpture just up at the balcony level, a subtle yet poignant appreciation for Kansas City's jazz history. The annual Jazz Series of concerts always has some up-and-coming artists as well as some that are well-known in the music industry. We had an opportunity to see Jane Monheit as a replacement for Diane Schurr and we could not have been happier. The vocals fill the hall and deliver rather than overpower, allowing you to truly appreciate the performance. Parking may be a bit of a trick due to demand, but there is a garage nearby and plenty of other options. Concessions are welcome during the performances and are available pre-event or at intermission. Most of all, the seating can seem a touch crowded, but you need an appreciation for the history of the venue versus the convenience of accommodations today. The Folly IS Kansas City history - go live it! read more

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I came here for the Booker T. Jones concert. It was the first time I ever been to the Folly. I can't believe how clean it was for being such an old theater for this type of music It was an ideal venue. The acoustics were spot on. I'll be checking their website more often because I do plan on coming back for more shows. read more

Folly Theater - Performing Arts Near Me - Kansas City, Missouri

This is a lovely and quaint theatre that is well maintained. Free parking is available adjacent to the theatre which is very convenient. There is a concession bar inside where you can purchase a beverage for the concert and bring it in with you. The volunteer ushers are friendly and helpful. The jazz offerings are my favorite and I wish there were more. read more

Folly Theater - Bobby Watson performing a solo - Performing Arts Near Me - Kansas City, Missouri

Seating in the balcony has absolutely NO LEG ROOM. So if you are average height or taller, plan to be uncomfortably squished.

I've been to the Folly twice since the remodeling. It's a lovely historic theater and the new seats (lower level) are significantly more comfortable than the previous seats. However, the Folly continues to have accessibility problems, even with the new seats. I was disappointed that the balcony continues to be lacking elevator access. I understand that it's an old building, but other historic theaters in other cities have managed to install elevators that reach the upper levels. Even worse is navigating the small crammed lobby to enter the theater. The house opens 30 minutes before the performance and there's simply no waiting space for guests who have arrived early in order to park in the limited Folly garage. We were part of the long line of guests with mobility devices (canes, rollators, wheelchairs) who had to queue up on the sidewalk before trying to navigate the packed lobby. Attempting to reach the restrooms at the rear of the lobby was treacherous. I'm always surprised to encounter venues with a significant senior demographic who aren't accessible. Imagine how many tickets you'd sell if folks with canes and wheelchairs could actually feel welcome? read more

The Folly is a unique fabulous venue. We find the lower balcony to be our desired seating. Incredible artists perform here.

The Folly is The Absolute Best, Quaint, Historic, Beautifully Designed and Kept Theatre in the world and I am honored to call it home to my city. I always enjoy great shows/performances here. They bring The Best to life and light and I'm super excited each time a great event that I must attend is scheduled at this theatre. It exudes such class, warmth and character and did I say I'm Hometown Proud it's in my backyard? Kudos Folly! Keep The Greatness Flowing. You're second to none! read more

The Folly is a wonderful small-ish venue in downtown KC. I hadn't been since it was recently refurbished. I feel like the new entrance took away some of the charm of the famously Art Deco building, but the restoring of the main auditorium more than makes up for that- there is new carpet throughout and the seats have been updated. They're wider and much more comfortable than they used to be- people were packed in here like sardines before! My mom and I recently saw the Kingston Trio here and it was a wonderful show- great acoustics and lighting and every single staff member we encountered was so nice and helpful and accommodating. They also have a nice area for drinks and snacks before the show or during intermission. I really liked that they had a wide selection of soft drinks, wines, and several canned mixed cocktails which were chilled and poured over ice. read more

The restored historic Folly Theater is another Kansas City treasure, and exquisite on the inside...a work of art. But as a performance venue, I can't give it high marks because the seats are so uncomfortable tiny, you feel like you're in a full-body straight jacket. If people are seated on both sides of you, there's just no place for your arms to go. Add in the bulk of a winter coat, and even breathing takes up too much room! And if you're not on the front row, you stop feeling your feet part way through the evening. As one of my friends said tonight, "These are worse than airplane seats!" But oh, what you get to see and hear on the inside! As one who has to budget carefully (For instance: Gasoline or food? As a Yelper, food always wins!) I most often go for the free concerts in the Harriman-Jewell Series, founded by William Jewell College in 1965, which usually feature young, up-and-coming musicians, or those well on their way to greatness, and sometimes edgy or avant-garde talent, like the passionate female violinist who coaxed sounds I'd never heard out of a violin before, and I mean really beautiful sounds. Tonights group, WindSync, a wind quintet, meshed and wove their way through the familiar Ravel's Bolero in a wonderfully unique way, making me feel like I was hearing it for the first time...which I wasn't, as it was my step-father's favorite classical piece, and I can remember it playing almost every weekend morning! The interior of the Folly is like a jewel box, with intricate medallions on the walls, ceiling and around the stage, some featuring stylized half-clothed ladies, some in scenes with horses(!), and lots of detailed gold trim. There is so much going on visually on all surfaces, I never even noticed the half-naked ladies before tonight! Everyone should go to the Folly Theater at least once! Be prepared to hear and see amazing things, and to feel so cramped physically that it's hard to stand up at intermission! read more

The Folly is a clean high-class venue. If you have trouble with stairs choose lower level seating. No elevators. Nice old building; adequately staffed & maintained. read more

I love folks theatre, they offer a good variety of performances. I've attended piano concertos as well as burlesque shows. I would say this... the seating could be better for certain acts since it's such a small space. If you can afford it, i would recommend staying away from upper balcony. The visibility is limited even though the set up is steep. I love their staff, not sure if paid or volunteers but they are sweet and helpful and seem to genuinely enjoy being at folly. I've never seen a bar there, not sure if they offer snacks or drinks. I usually walk to folly but I recently found out they have a parking garage. When your booked performance is coming up, you get an email with parking instructions. read more

I had the pleasure of attending a jazz event at the Folly and it did not dissapoint. We were given a free drink voucher upon entering this historic venue and the staff were super friendly. Given the choice of juice,pop or alcohol I went with latter. Upstairs the area was reserved. Very nice set up with finger foods-dip,crackers,pepperoni, cheese,olives and mini cupcakes. All of the foods were delicious. After mingling the staff introduced themselves and had Adam say a few words about our Yelp family. The social hour contniued then everyone headed to the theater. The guest performer-Joshua Redman Quartet was amazing. If you are a jazz enthusiast check them out. They performed songs off their most recent album in addition to some Parker. Seating was good and I felt like I was close to the stage despite being on the balcony level. The crowd was into the sounds and overall great experience. Thanks for the experience Folly.... read more

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This venue has so much blessed history behind it, the fact that it has been restored and reopened to its former state of glory warrants a high rating from Yours, Truly. As a former stage performer (and usher who worked at Radio City Music Hall where, when I entered the stage door, I'd pretend I was a Rockette. Sadly, Rockettes have a height minimum of 5'5", so I never even auditioned, but that's a story for another time), I appreciate the history behind theaters to an almost obsessive level. The older, the better. This past Saturday night, I went to see the Burlesque Revival at the Folly (put on by Burlesque Downtown Underground, a local burlesque troupe). The Folly is Kansas City's oldest theater and the intent was to put on the kind of show that originated here, back in KC's glory days of vaudeville and burlesque. I'm not sure what the programming is like regularly, but I hope this is the first of many burlesque shows to come, as this is the perfect venue for it! It reminds me a lot of Broadway theaters and yes, the seats are small, made for the Victorian ass and stature no doubt. You know if my legs are cramped an hour into it, that there isn't much leg room either! No matter, revel in the environment, for it's pristine. The only reason I'm not giving the Folly 5-stars is due to the fact that they did not prepare properly for even a drinking crowd. It was utterly impossible to get a drink during intermission, for the line moved at a snail's pace. Despite the fact that there is a bar on the mezzanine level, it was not open. There are also little carts around that could act as bars. This was bothersome as I could only think of the money they could have made if only they had those other bars open. read more

I liked this historic theater (built in 1900). The stacked seating afforded a great view of the stage from almost every seat, with fine acoustics. The seats were comfortable, and staff were on hand to help me find my seat. Unfortunately, I needed to cut through a line at the bar just as I entered the theater. Otherwise, very nice. read more

You know this place is neat. I understand it being kept historical, but the seating needs major makeovers. The seat in front of me had huge screws poking out of the back. That could really hurt someone or just tear their clothes. I have an illness that makes prone to infection if I only get a small cut on my legs, so seeing something like that to me makes me run in the other direction. We had orchestra area tickets...the highest cost tickets. We had TERRIBLE seats! We couldn't even see half of the stage. If you have a place in your venue that has a bad view of the stage, you shouldn't charge premium cost for it. I don't know, the show we went to was great, but I don't expect to return to Folly Theater. read more

Beautiful music hall! Went here when the London orchestra was playing and it was such a wonderful event! The acoustics are perfect no matter where you sit in the theatre. The seats are small, so I hope you don't mind rubbing elbows with a stranger! They have coat racks for you so you can hang up your items and not have to worry about bulky things in your seating area. Can't wait to come here again read more

I've been here probably a dozen times over the years - mostly for Harriman Jewell concerts - and I really enjoy the venue. It has the historicity of the Lyric but feels a bit more up to date and bright and clean (in the spirit of the Kauffman Center). Great (mostly elderly) staff. Parking is pretty easy (it's the structure right next door). Seats are old but still comfortable. And the venue, and often the talent, is simply world-class. Hope you have a chance to get here sometime soon. read more

I came to this theater to see Ailey II presented by Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey. When I walked in I noticed that the lobby area was very clean and well lit. The walls were filled w/ history about the theater and had information about when it was built and who the previous owners were. When I got my ticket, I was told that I would have to wait for about 15 minutes until the first act was done because I was about 5 minutes late. I really didn't understand why I had to wait in order to go in, when they were letting people come in and out to use the restroom. If you can leave, go to the restroom and then go back in....why couldn't someone just come in? I ended up going in and enjoyed the show, however, I wish I had chosen a different seat because the side balcony blocked my line of sight a little bit. Other than that it was a good experience and I'd go back if there was another show there that I wanted to see. read more

This is a beautiful little theater. It's an old time theater and by old time I mean that the seats are small without much leg room, there isn't a lot of space to get drinks and each member of the sex gets its own cramped bathroom. Now that we got that out of the way, you will will absolutely love seeing an event here. It almost feels like you're stepping back in time. Most of the calendar features cultured events... think choirs, ensembles, classical instruments and ethnic dancing. If you watch closely you will see some more mainstream acts, especially comedians, like Hannibal Buress for one. The seats are up close to the stage so even if you're towards the back or up in the balcony you should have a good view. The acoustics are among the best in town. If you get a chance to see somebody here please jump on it. You won't regret it. read more

Three stars, but barely three stars. That sentence may offend the dedicated Folly Theater goer. But it is what it is. Let me explain. The Folly theater is Kansas City's oldest theater. With seating for just over 1000 in the hall, it makes for an intimate performance experience. Updates have been made to the house and even more so in the lobby area. Walking from the lobby into the theater space is almost a shock. You go from modern to old time theater in a real hurry. In the main hall, wood floors are still in place giving a sense of history. The downside to the wood floors are that if you happen to be in the general area of a "toe tapper" (you know, tap your toes along with the beat of the music) you definitely feel the beat whether you like it or not. One of the biggest downsides in my opinion is the house sound system. While it may work for spoken lines, for music on any scale, it is lacking. I really feel that can take an amazing performance and take it down a level or two. The space is small enough that you want to hear every last plunk on the piano, every last slap on the bass, every last little touch of the cymbals... Unfortunately you don't. Upgrades are expensive I realize, but an upgrade is needed. Tips: Drinks can be brought into the theater space (apparently....)!! Get down there early, park your car in the garage next door, and walk down to the P&L district. It is a nice walk before and after dinner (work off some calories!) The Jazz Series brings in some great acts. Plus you get to see them up close and personal. Talk to the people around you, many of them are regulars of the Folly events... If you are looking for things to do after, they will know. Conclusion: In the days of economic downturns and people not spending as much, business have to really define and reinvent themselves to be successful. The Folly has a great thing going, and with a few extra steps, it can truly be great and weather any storm. SAVE THE ARTS! read more

Folly Theater - Stage - Performing Arts Near Me - Kansas City, Missouri

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The show was great, but the seats are terrible. I couldn't see half of the action on stage. I was always straining to see around the guests who were, likewise, straining to see around the guests seated in front of them, and on and on. There were a lot of children in the crowd, and I have no idea how they could see anything. Fortunately, some of the action took place on platforms. Well, sometimes, I could see some of that action. It is a beautiful theater. No doubt. I wouldn't return, though, because it was just too difficult to see, and I am above average height. I am sure there were theater goers who couldn't see around me. Tickets aren't cheap. There are probably good seats. I just wouldn't know how to find them. read more

Folly theater was very bright and pretty with all its unique atmosphere of an old time theater. The sound was great and seating was prefect all way around. I went to see the Heartland men's chorus and they did a fantastic job. The drinks were about average. An the service from the employees form folly theater were great! Parking is not great and getting in or out of the theater is not very good either. Restrooms were very clean and easy to get too. But over all very good place to see a chorus. read more

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Me and ,y mother came and we were treated with incredible service if you are looking for something to do in Kansas City Mo this comes highly recommend. read more

My review comes from an atypical perspective...that of a performer in the theater, rather than as an audience member. I'll save a star for when I'm sitting in the seats, at some point. From a performance standpoint, it's a blessing to be able to perform at the Folly. This theater has been around since 1900. While there is no denying the appeal and allure of more modern and contemporary venues in KC, this kind of performing arts history is hard to come by. This theater was a burlesque and vaudeville hot spot. A then-unknown actor named Humphrey Bogart took the stage here in the twenties. The Marx Bros. were here, Al Jolson, many others. The building is on the National Registry of Historic Places. When you think about the generations of people who have passed over the original wooden plank flooring in the auditorium, which people have had the good sense NOT to cover over with carpeting, it's really quite impressive. Yeah, the seats are small. They're vintage...Victorians didn't have desk-ass. 'Tis life. The house is small-ish, which allows for an intimate theater experience. The building is gorgeous; it's been restored inside to its original color scheme, and the marquee sign outside is newly redone to mimic as closely as possible the original signage. For those wanting a real slice of arts history in KC, the Folly is a great place to see a show. I highly recommend finding street parking, but, then, I do with basically everything downtown. read more

As a lover of old historic theaters, I will tell you that the Folly is truly a historic gem in downtown KC. My love of broadway theater and my stint as the marketing VP of another historic theatre in Memphis, TN, years ago definitely makes me appreciate the splendor that these old theaters offer. The Folly foyer has recently undergone a renovation which makes the interior walk in space modern, open and functional, but the beauty and majestic charm of this grand old dame still awaits you behind those red curtains! I've seen several performances here, from artistic soloists, to ensembles to a Christmas drag queen show. The setting is absolutely stunning and the ambiance is perfectly mesmerizing! read more

The Folly is a Kansas City landmark and the last survivor of the numerous grand theaters in Kansas City at the turn of the last century. Over the years the theater went from legitimate fare to vaudeville and then became a burlesque house. It has been lovingly restored to its former beauty -- it's amazing to think of generations of burlesque fans sitting in this bijou of a theater! The decor of the auditorium is beautiful, in a refined Regency style. The lobby and side addition with box office, bar, and restrooms are modern. There is a paid parking lot right next door to the theater, which is handy for many people. The auditorium is small, with excellent acoustics, which has made it a favorite performance venue for chamber music, classical recitals, and many other groups, including the Heartland Men's Chorus and the Harriman-Jewell performing arts series. The Folly is definitely a jewel in Kansas City, and you're sure to enjoy yourself thoroughly at any performance you attend here! read more

We saw Robert Glasper tonight, who was very talented and very entertaining. His stage presence and choice of musicians were both on point. However there was a woman that insisted on making loud noises in the balcony, hooting and hollering, at times singing along with poor tune and in an inappropriate manner altogether. It took the staff an hour, during a 90 minute show, to finally escort her out. This is The Folly, not a speak easy. I paid good money for these tix. I was surprised at the lack of effort to ensure the rest of the fan base enjoyed themselves. I've seen many shows at this venue and never experienced this situation before tonight. But it sucked. It was distracting and annoying. The Folly staff should step up in these scenarios to ensure a quality show for their loyal patrons. read more

This is a beautiful theater. I was lucky enough to be able to perform on stage with the Heartland Men's Chorus this last summer. A total honor. read more

Folly Theater - Performing Arts Near Me - Kansas City, Missouri

I was an Usher there for a few events a couple years ago. That was an experience, but something out of "my" ordinary. But as far as arts and the theater here in KC, the Folly is as good as it gets:) (a description of one of my favorite movies as well, hehe) Oh, and in case you missed it...of ALL the places in Kansas City that President Obama and his entourage could have chosen, they held yesterday's meeting here:) Kudos to them. read more

I love the Folly Theater. The volunteer staff is wonderful, the theater is gorgeous, and everything is so clean! My only complaint is the seats are quite snug, but you have to understand this place is a historical landmark. I would love to attend more functions here in the future. read more

I have been here for a couple of shows now and this is a great venue! The sound is amazing and I don't think there is a bad seat. I have sat down front and up in the balcony and both were great. The building is beautiful. There is a good variety of events that come into the theater and a must visit venue. As with most things downtown, parking is either overpriced or you have to find something on the streets. For one event, the parking cost was 50% of my ticket price, ouch! I look forward to more events at this venue in the future. You can't beat the sound and the historic feel. read more

I've been to the Folly Theater twice, on both occasions for free concerts. I enjoyed both concerts though the first one I attended about a year ago definitely more so than the most recent cellist recital concert I attended. I can't say I'm a huge fan of the cello but my mom really enjoyed it so it was worth sitting through even the pieces that I thought were slightly on the darker side and didn't enjoy as much. The building is BEEEAUTIFUL! A lovely experience and worth a visit! : ) read more

Folly Theater - Performing Arts Near Me - Kansas City, Missouri

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A beautiful piece of Kansas City history and beautiful piece of Kansas City's future. Wonderful venue that reminds me of a Broadway theatre. , an excellent location, and friendly courteous staff. Would be nice if they had multiple restroom locations. read more

Although the Folly is small, its nostalgic decor is sure to charm you. A leftover for the days of vaudeville and burlesque, this theatre dates back to 1900. The theatre has been extensively restored from decades of decay, but the refurbished theatre still captures the glamor and style of its heyday. And, the scale and style of this charming vintage theatre will no doubt amuse modern audiences (visit the upstairs ladies room for tiny facilities and a pay phone!). My favorite description is the reminiscence of the box seats to the 1970s syndicated television show by Jim Henson "The Muppet show" and the expectation that the grumpy old hecklers Statler and Waldorf would look right at home sitting in one of the boxes here at the Folly. Parking is convenient in a structure directly adjacent to the theatre building so long as there are not too many events going on at the same time in the immediate area. The ticketing staff is not very quick--truth be told the theatre staff seems to have more than a few elderly employees--but the staff is courteous and customer experiences are good. The seats are reasonably comfortable but not luxurious. The acoustics are good. read more

The perfect small, intimate venue. Came here for a special comedy show and had a blast! Wherever you seat you get quality sight and sound. Vintage declaration. Perfect spot to enjoy a show. read more