Their handling of severe weather is ridiculous. I'm not talking rain but tornado watch, hail and thunderstorms with all other venues cancelling they wait until 45 minutes to decide. Rain or shine does not mean bodily harm with no option for refund. Then they say we can move but "seats are filling up" when they didn't advertise they were offering moves. FIFA fan fest cancelled, Shawnee Theater in the park cancelled and the lady on the phone has the nerve to cut me off when asking questions? Understand when you buy you will have to endure tornadoes, 70mph winds and hail before a refund. read more

Starlight is a Kansas City institution and I've come here countless times for everything from broadway performances to big concerts and I have to say it's a really great big venue. To start with, what other venue in KC has ample FREE parking? I feel like 10 years ago this was common, but nowadays not only is parking often pricey, but it can be harder and harder to find. With Starlight located in Swope Park, they are able to share parking with the Zoo and if needed do overflow parking into the park itself. Worst case you're walking a bit. I love that I never have to worry about finding a spot. Now, as we've moved into the modern era Starlight has enacted some clear bag policies so you'll want to read up on that. I just brought my ID , a credit card, and my phone to simplify entry. Once inside you'll be treated to the nicest outdoor venue KC has to offer. The restrooms were renovated within the past few years and are really super nice. I remember back in the day they were worse for wear, but now they are all clean, well lit, and despite it being an outdoor venue, little to no bugs. The food options appear to be decent - we ate before arriving on our latest visit, but they had solid beers available for purchase, and several bar areas which made lines move quickly. I'll finally add that you will have a vastly different experience on if you get a ticket way at the top or one down in orchestra. Of course the orchestra tickets are incredible and IMO worth the cost since Starlight keeps prices pretty fair, but I love that since it's so big and they have such far away seats, if you just want to enjoy music under the stars you can still do that here for sometimes as cheap as $30 a seat. Overall, I love this venue - especially on a nice KC night it really can't be beat if you have good seats. read more

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Great Venue with free parking. Sound quality was excellent for the David Byrne concert. East access in and out, with many staff members helping those that couldn't figure out the well marked seating areas. The only negative was having first row upper terrace ing the middle sections. avoid these rows. No guardrail in front of you and ushers blocked view for first 2 songs. First time here and very enjoyable. read more

We enjoyed Alison Krauss and Union Station on May 17, 2025. This was the second time we'd been to Starlight Theatre and the second time it rained on us. The first time was at the musical "Come From Away". We eventually left that performance because we were soaked and miserable. The Alison Krauss show was a bit better. It sprinkled a bit and rained some. They left the stage for 5-10 minutes and came back and finished the show. Luckily, we were with some friends who had a membership to the Applause Club. We were able to go in there to escape the rain. People were talking too loudly, so we couldn't hear the music. The bartender working inside was amazing! She was super kind and professional. Very quick. The venue is gorgeous! The staff and management are amazing. They were all doing their best. We met the GM, Jessica, and she was kind and helpful. They are going to be adding a canopy soon. That will help with the rain. It wasn't forecast either time we attended. We're bringing our ponchos from now on. read more

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Starlight is an overall great experience! You can bring the kiddos, you can bring the parents, anyone is welcome. The show is a great way to stay engaged rather than watch a screen. And it is stunning! read more

Starlight Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Kansas City, Missouri

It's become a spring/summer tradition to attend an open air musical at Starlight. Last year Legally Blonde was the pick, this year it was Mean Girls. Both made for such a fun girls night out. The theater itself is wonderful, an outdoor amphitheater with a good overall layout and acoustics. I haven't been to a concert here in years but, from what I remember it's a nice outdoor venue with decent sound quality. I just love the vibe of catching a show (of any kind) outdoors in the night breeze. I will definitely be continuing the tradition next year picking another musical to attend with my friends or family. You really can't go wrong with supporting the arts at Starlight. The only thing that can go wrong is parking, getting out of the park once the show is over can be a long tedious process but, to me that one little flaw is nothing in comparison to the overall experience of Starlight itself. It just gives you more time to gab about the fabulous production you just saw. No harm no foul. read more

Starlight Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Kansas City, Missouri

Starlight is my favorite outdoor theatre. I've been multiple times, usually once or twice a season. But this season, I was lucky enough to attend all five shows and they were all fantastic. There isn't a bad seat in the house. I had a different seat for each show and can't complain about any of them. Not to mention, the TVs that allow you to watch the performers and the set up close is a nice touch. The staff and volunteers are always friendly and greet you with a smile. I look forward to the preshow activities and performances each time. The collectible refillable cup this season was a great bonus. I can't wait to visit again next season. I definitely recommend attending at least one show at Starlight. read more

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The Starlight theatre is a beautiful venue. However I am not fan of the chicken sandwich. It was bland. read more

Starlight Theatre - spicy Chicken sandwich and tater tots - Performing Arts Near Me - Kansas City, Missouri

Starlight is always a great time. The shows are wonderful. My only wish is that the concessions were more affordable. Last time they had water to give out for FREE that really came in handy . The entire place is cashless ! The workers are always friendly . read more

Starlight Theatre - Ashton Weaver at Starlight theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Kansas City, Missouri

Came to Starlight to see Incubus recently and it's still a very good venue. Parking was easy enough, seating was easy to find, there's a ton of concessions, and the merch shop was working quickly. The good: Anecdotal, but Incubus may be better now than the last time I saw them circa 2004-ish. Drinks were pretty decent. The venue itself is perfect for an evening show. And everyone working the event were helpful & pleasant. The bad: Everything was god-awful expensive. Pretty sure the small margarita I got was about $20 after a tip. Shirts were like $50 each. Food was also really high. So I'd recommend eating in advance and pre-gaming. Plus you can bring exactly 1x bottle of water (can't remember the exact size) in with you. Also, if you stick around to the end of the show, depending on where you park, you might be stuck for half an hour or so. Overall: Still an enjoyable evening, just a bit expensive and doing weeknight concerts after turning 40 is rough. read more

Love this KC Outdoor Theater! Snag some tickets at the box office (lower fees), some cold bevies from the vendors and plop your butts under the giant fans and moon light. We've visited a few times and always have the best evenings. Great location to enjoy some live entertainment!! read more

Starlight Theatre - Incubus in concert - Performing Arts Near Me - Kansas City, Missouri

I haven't been back here since I first moved here but I got to catch a show recently. It was a nice weather day which contributed to a good show since it is outside. The seats and space are comfortable. There are several entrances I believe so that people don't have to crowd or herd. The food and beverage line was long so plan to get their early if you partake. The fountain and space is well taken care of and very clean. I would be comfortable taking young ones as long as it's not too crowded. The show was fantastic and I appreciate how they always have shows that can appeal to everyone and curate a good list of shows. read more

Went to Whiskey Meyers on July 12th. They did not disappoint. Starlight is just amazing. What a beautiful place. Great views everywhere. The parking is easy. Easy in and out. Yes people you have to have some patience. It is a gem we have in KC. Highly recommend the pulled pork nachos. They smoke the pork on site. A guy does it for every show. Big portion and we didn't take a picture. Now you know it was that good read more

We drove from Omaha since my husband had scored some cheap Pixies tickets. We had the last seats in the last row and to be honest, they were great. We had the best shade and breeze, a great view, and easy access to the abundant food and drink choices and to the clean and convenient bathrooms. We parked in the EV charging area (to charge not just to park of course). It cost about $6 to charge but we didn't have to pay to park so that was nice It's a nice place to see a show, sound was good, staff was friendly. Food was ok, was not super expensive, and was served immediately. We bought a reusable cup for $9, refills were $1, definitely would do that again. Pixies were kinda lame in my opinion, compared to when I saw them over 30 years ago. However I am certain that was not a fault of the Starlight Theater! Very nice venue. read more

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Excellent outdoor concert venue. There are lots of tables to enjoy a pre show meal or drink from one of the vendors. You can buy earplugs or rent seat cushions. Ramps throughout the space which make it easier to navigate. Easy in/out for the parking lots. read more

Starlight Theatre - Great outdoor venue with stadium style seats. - Performing Arts Near Me - Kansas City, Missouri

Starlight has been on my list of venues to visit in KC- but I'm always traveling during the summer when shows are playing that I'd like to see. We went as a family for my sons first rock concert- The Black Keys. There isn't a bad seat in the house! With large screens you can see the artists even from further back. It was HOT with nary a breeze, but they did have free iced water for people and allow you to bring in sealed, plastic water bottles. There was a line to get in for parking, but the attendants did a great job directing people and it moved quickly. Prices for tickets were very reasonable and it was a family friendly place to bring my teenagers. read more

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I recently had the pleasure of attending a Tears for Fears concert at Starlight Theater, and it was an absolute blast. Talk about sowing the seeds of love! It was a delirious, mad world as a giddy throng of Fearmongers (that's what we fans call ourselves) shouted and let it all out. The crowd was head over heels for Tears For Fears during their excellent performance. We all wanted to rule the world and for two hours, we did! So yeah, the concert itself was nothing short of GREAT! The sound quality is always top-notch at Starlight. Parking: strangely, was a bit more troublesome than usual. While there were a few attendants and cones initially, they sort of disappeared, leaving us to search aimlessly for a spot. Luckily, we were able to find one pretty easily, but it was definitely not the usual seamless "directed" parking experience I've come to expect from Starlight. Getting in: While the line to get into the venue was long, I was very pleasantly surprised by how quickly it moved. The staff really had things organized and got everyone in quickly. Merch: not really anything to do with Starlight itself, but apparently people go crazy for TfF merch. The line for that was super long...and yeah, they had some awesome tshirts, but I'm not paying $45 for one!! Holy geez! Long story short, if you're looking for a fantastic concert experience, I highly recommend checking out Starlight Theater. Open air, very well maintained and operated...and just so much fun!! read more

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Always a fun outdoor concert venue!!!! Lover boy & Foreigner tonight - final tour hmmm we will see read more

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This is one of the nice outdoor theater here in KC. I've enjoyed the shows like the musical, broadway, or even concerts here. Especially during a summer night. Seats are reasonable where you sit. I like the middle rows. I also enjoyed a good time with good friends. This theater offers a great atmosphere. I can remember watching One Republic here and I was so moved by their music and the people who went to see them. It was magical. Oh I can't forget, get the funnel cake. It's so good and fresh. Very worth it. People are friendly here and will helped you out if you're lost or can't find your seat. Would come back again and again. read more

Starlight Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Kansas City, Missouri

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I really enjoy the outdoor venue of Starlight Theatre. It's beautiful, clean, and well maintained. The performances I've seen have been first rate. I used to be a season ticket holder but am no longer as the offerings can be redundant to someone like me who has seen many Broadway performances. The food and drink choices are somewhat limited but I don't go there for the food so it means little to me. What matters most to me are the show offerings and Starlight does a wonderful job in bringing shows and talent to the KCMO area. read more

Starlight Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Kansas City, Missouri

I've seen this venue thousands of times because it is right by the KC zoo. But this was my first time there. It's quite the experience. It's easy to find because it's in the city but it is surrounded by gorgeous trees. We went for a third eye blind concert. It is an outdoor venue so super hot in Summer but it had enough shade that it wasn't unbearable. There were ample concessions. The sound was better than I expected for such an old venue. I was disappointed as usual when venues charge for parking but got a bit of a laugh getting to choose paved or grass. Paved was of course more expensive. I guess they have to pay those directing traffic somehow. read more

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Starlight Theatre is such a beautiful outdoor venue. The outdoor amphitheater provides a charming atmosphere for attendees to enjoy performances under the stars. Many visitors appreciate the laid-back and comfortable experience. As with any venue, experiences may vary depending on factors such as the specific show you attend and the weather. The Starlight staff is always present to assist you with seating needs, and other things. There are plenty of food options ranging from chicken tender baskets to nachos. read more

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Workers rude Won't come back ever!!!! She only talked to me not others but lost my business she made it a sucky experience workers at the ushers read more

What a perfect night under a full moon to attend the Robert Plant and Alison Krauss concert at the Starlight Theater. The Starlight Theater, in my opinion, is the best outdoor venue in the city. The theater offers a beautiful and unique atmosphere, surrounded by trees and nature, which makes it the perfect setting for an outdoor concert. The sound quality is excellent, and the layout of the theater ensures that every seat has a great view of the stage. The two big screens help the viewing experience. I grew up attending performances at Starlight so it is filled with wonderful memories and I love adding to them. Robert Plant and Alison Krauss are both legends in their respective genres, and seeing them perform live is truly a treat. Their collaboration, which produced the album "Raising Sand," has been praised by critics and fans alike. Seeing them perform together live at the Starlight Theater was a musical treat. The chemistry between the two artists is undeniable, and their voices blend together beautifully, creating a truly magical performance. The band musicians were so talented. The combination of the beautiful outdoor venue of Starlight and the legendary artists made for a special evening. read more

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We came from St. Louis to see Berlin. My husband has been waiting 40 years to see them, and they did not disappoint. The venue was amazing. A few things that would stand out to anyone... -great view from every seat. We were way in the back and had a clear view of the stage. The seats are easy to access without steps, and the grades of the ramps are not too steep. The only concession we tried was the freshly squeezed lemonade, which was amazing. The paper straws they had started disintegrating in less than 30 minutes--before we finished our drinks. The real high points for me were the aspects of the venue that related to accessibility for people with various types of disabilities. I am the mom of a young adult who has cerebral palsy. The adult-sized changing table with a curtain for privacy around it in (at least) the women's restroom is TOP TIER!! Seriously, we need to normalize this in all public venues!! There were communication and ASL alphabet signs all over the place courtesy of Variety the Children's Charity and the Mahomes family!! Yes!!! Phenomenal!! Seriously, we need these everywhere!! Thank you so much Starlight Theatre, Variety, and the Mahomes family, you all are the best!! read more

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Went to see Van Gough. Enjoyed learning all about him. The cost was a bit much for the experience but hey! We enjoyed the experience. read more

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We had a wonderful night here at the Starlight theater to see Rachel Platten and Pentatonix. It was a fantastic show and we had great seats near the front! The stage is a cute old time-y outdoor stage that makes this a really unique experience for concerts compared to more modern venues such as sprint center. There was a bit of a sewer-type smell that you can waft sometimes during the evening. Food options here aren't great, so I would eat beforehand. Long lines, and popcorn was stale. Cheese plate? DONT plate. I didn't even know what I was eating. They do serve alcohol, which is a plus. Parking is somewhat of a controlled nightmare - they did a good job directing you where to park, but we had to park in the grass because we came only 20 minutes early (all the paved parking was gone). Make sure you bring a car that can drive the lawn. Would definitely come back for more concerts! read more

Hell of a place for a concert! I've seen The Cure, Duran Duran, Disney, etc out here and the place is just so cool. Great vender locations, food is awesome and ambiance is the best. read more

Starlight Theatre - Duran Duran - Performing Arts Near Me - Kansas City, Missouri

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What a great outdoor venue!! Drinks were great and the lines were not long. Biggest bathrooms I have seen. Lovers it. Can't wait to see another concert there. Not a bad seat anywhere. read more

I came here for the van gough exhibit and was impressed with the precautions the starlight had prepared! The venue was clean and well kept and the staff were very kind and able to assist and accommodate willingly. I thoroughly enjoyed the van gough exhibit and it's ability to immerse the person into his life! Such a cool experience read more

Starlight Theatre - Van gough exhibit - Performing Arts Near Me - Kansas City, Missouri

This is an outdoor amphitheater that offers concerts, musical theater productions and comedy shows. We attend 2-4 shows a year and have a blast every time! We have seen broadway travel productions, REO Speedwagon, Chicago, Steve Martin and many many others. It is beautiful, well maintained, clean and has many food and drink vendors and helpful ushers every few feet. If you are considering attending a show, I highly recommend this location!! read more

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Starlight is one of my favorite things about KC!!There really isn't a bad seat in the house. The prices remain reasonable. And with the new fans added this summer, a hot night doesn't keep you from attending. Jason Mraz was in town last night for the first time in six years. I did something I never thought I would and brought our four month old baby along (no babysitter), that's how bad I wanted to see him again. We were a little surprised we had to purchase a ticket for the little dude. I would've thought since he didn't take a seat, no ticket needed, but someone had ended up turning in an extra one to the box office that they allowed us to use. Thank you. This is a date night dream or a fun family night, depending on the entertainment. We've been to dozens of plays and concerts here. We really should consider season passes at this point. read more

Starlight Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Kansas City, Missouri

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ZZ top. Was amazing. Who knew seeing a concert st starlight would be this awesome. Highly recommend. Seeing a music concert there.

Love the atmosphere and the food is really good--but a little expensive. It is buffet style, so service is a non issue.

Beautiful location. Outside so starts later in day when it's cooler and they also have 35 foot tall fans overhead. It has lots of restaurants and a bar area. They have Broadway series and a lot of other performers and musicians at the venue. Really great place! read more

My 1st time to Starlight. There always seems to be some confusion when I ask anybody about it about whether it's all outdoor or if there's indoor also. I can now confirm that there is indeed an indoor theater. I saw the office parody, which is a review unto itself, but as far as the Starlight goes, I can't wait to come back and see my next show or concert. Comfortable seating and the staff wasn't lying when they said there's not a bad seat in the house. There really isn't. read more

Starlight Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Kansas City, Missouri

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This venue is beautiful, the stage is large but not so big you get overwhelmed like you can with the larger venues downtown. We attended a concert on a beautiful 72° night and it was amazing. Sound was decent, employees helpful, bathrooms clean. Confessions were typical concert prices 13$ beers etc... We got tickets in the Box section row A and they were great seats as far as feet from stage and space. Parking was free but we arrived an hour early and brought lawn chairs to sit behind our car and eat a take out meal while we waited, others did the same, this allowed us to be right up front when gates opened . My only con is the seating. The seats are awful if you are a large person. My husband and I are both over 6ft tall and both over 250lbs. We barely fit in the seats. By the time the concert was over, 3 hrs or so our backs and hips were screaming from being wedged into too small seats. There were other patrons there in the 350lb and up club that I have no idea how they got in the seats because of how small they are. I get that's a niche complaint for bigger folks but I'm sharing as a warning. I have bruises on my hips from cramming myself into the seats. If you're a woman above a size 18 beware and any men with a waist over 42 inches, you've been warned. Otherwise it's a great concert/play space. read more

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I don't live in Kansas City and this was my first time coming to the Starlight theater. This outdoor venue is a lovely space for plays, shows, and concerts, especially when the weather is nice! I was here to see my sister in The Wizard of Oz. I didn't take off a star for this, but as an aside, the only thing I didn't like was the food. I got street tacos and there were three meats available. Three tacos come in one order, but when I asked for one of each, the cashier told me that was fine, but one of the workers told me they couldn't mix and match because of portion control, which made absolutely no sense to me. And, though they were street tacos they didn't come with lime, and only one choice of salsa which I had to ask for. And, it was pricey but the food was just mediocre. Granted, the main reason people are coming here is to see shows, so, my suggestion would be to just eat beforehand. read more

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There is no other outdoor venue like this in Kansas City. The location, tucked into Swope Park, combined with the easy layout and friendly staff make this the best outdoor event space that I can think of. Starlight has been the key to some of the best memories of this summer; I was able to see Arcade Fire, Willie Nelson and The Blue Man Group in the span of a few months. Last thing - There's really not a bad seat in the house. I saw a concert in one of the last rows and saw a show in the orchestra section and they both delivered. Glad this is situated in a cool part of the city and love when a good show rolls into it. read more

A perfect outdoor venue for shows and concerts. The addition of the large fans create a wonderful breeze during the heat of the summer. There are plenty of food and beverage stands throughout the venue so lines move quickly. Staff is incredibly friendly and helpful. read more

Starlight Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Kansas City, Missouri