The Lewis & Shirley White Theatre at The J officially announced its 2026–2027 season schedule, showcasing a mix of audience favorites and newer productions.
Season subscription packages go on sale to the public on Tuesday, June 16, while single tickets for individual shows will be available beginning Tuesday, Aug. 11. More information about season subscriptions and the 2026-27 season lineup can be found at TheWhiteTheatre.org or by calling the box office at (913) 327-8054.
In addition to opening the new season, “A Chorus Line” will be reopening the theater after a two-month renovation that includes new seating, improved acoustics and better sightlines.
“This season represents some of the most thoughtful and exciting programming we’ve ever assembled,” said Jonah Greene, director of Arts and Culture at The J. “Combined with our upcoming renovation and new branding, it marks an exciting new chapter for The White Theatre as we continue to create meaningful experiences through exceptional performances and storytelling.”
The season will also feature the return of The White Theatre’s beloved artists-in-residence, Kinnor Philharmonic, with both its annual New Year’s Day Concert and Summer Concert. These popular performances continue a longstanding tradition of bringing live symphonic music to Kansas City audiences while celebrating both classical repertoire and Jewish musical heritage.
The White Theatre’s New Works Series returns this year, showcases original productions rooted in Jewish stories and culture. This year’s New Works Series features the world premiere of “And You Shall Be a Blessing,” a new musical celebrating the life, music and legacy of Debbie Friedman, sometimes called the Joan Baez of Jewish folk rock.
The 22nd season features four main tracks: the Theatre Series, New Works Series, Concert Series and Special Engagements.
The Theatre Series
“A Chorus Line” (Nov. 7–22, 2026)
This Pulitzer Prize-winning musical focuses on 17 dancers auditioning for eight coveted spots in a Broadway chorus line, baring their souls in a riveting exploration of sacrifice, ambition and the human need to be seen.
“‘A Chorus Line’ is a timeless story that continues to resonate with audiences because of its honesty, heart and celebration of the people who make theater possible,” said the show’s director and choreographer, Christina Burton. “Audiences will be swept up in these characters’ stories, inspired by their passion and mesmerized by the incredible talent of Kansas City’s performers.”
“Little Shop of Horrors” (Jan. 30–Feb. 21, 2027)
A hapless florist’s life is transformed when he nurtures a bloodthirsty plant with big dreams and an even bigger appetite. Featuring an early rock-and-roll score, this cult classic blends comedy, horror and romance.
“Leopoldstadt” (March 20–April 4, 2027)
Presented in partnership with the Midwest Center for Holocaust Education, Tom Stoppard’s Tony Award-winning final play traces a prosperous Jewish family across half a century of Viennese history, from the grandeur of 1899 to the devastation of the Holocaust. A deeply personal drama explores memory, identity and loss through the lens of one family’s story.
“The Sound of Music” (July 3–25, 2027)
Rodgers and Hammerstein’s beloved classic follows the spirited Maria, who becomes governess to the von Trapp family in Austria on the eve of World War II. Filled with songs and romance, this musical celebrates the triumph of the human spirit.
New Work Series
“And You Shall Be a Blessing” (Aug. 28–Sept. 5, 2027)
A new musical celebrating the life of legendary Jewish singer-songwriter Debbie Friedman, whose music transformed Jewish worship and touched millions worldwide. Based on her life story, the production features her beloved original music and lyrics.
The Concert Series
Kinnor Philharmonic New Year’s Day Concert (Jan. 1, 2027)
The Kinnor Philharmonic will ring in the New Year with its annual tradition. Inspired by the Vienna Philharmonic’s famous New Year’s concert, this themed symphonic program under conductor Chris Kelts is followed by a festive bubbly reception.
Kinnor Philharmonic Summer Concert (May 30, 2027)
The Kinnor Philharmonic will return with a summer symphonic program infused with Jewish heritage and musical tradition. This annual concert offers a memorable way to celebrate the season through music.
Special Engagements
“The Birthday of the World” (Oct. 7–9, 2026)
This play, presented in partnership with The Coterie Theatre, is inspired by Jewish folklore and the book by Dr. Rachel Naomi Remen. This theatre-for-the-very-young production invites children ages 0–5 and their grown-ups into an immersive, sensory story about how the world was born and how every person carries a spark of light.
Due to renovations taking place at the White Theatre, all six performances will be held in the social hall at The J and will feature general admission seating.
“The Jewish Nutcracker” (Dec. 6, 2026)
Rebecca and the Nutcracker embark on a magical journey from Bubbe’s house to the Land of Nosh, encountering dancing dreidels and gelt-y delights along the way. Featuring nearly 200 Encore dance students, this holiday tradition is for the whole family.
“Mamma Mia” Sing-Along (Dec. 20, 2026)
The ABBA-powered movie musical comes to The White Theatre with lyrics projected on screen for a joyful communal sing-along. Featuring chart-topping hits including “Dancing Queen,” “S.O.S.” and “Mamma Mia,” this interactive event offers fun for audiences of all ages.
“Freedom Song” (April 11, 2027)
Presented by Beit T’Shuvah, this original musical intertwines a Passover Seder with personal stories of addiction, recovery and redemption. Performed by individuals in recovery, the production offers a moving exploration of freedom and transformation.
“Encanto” Sing-Along (June 13, 2027)
The White Theatre will host a movie musical sing-along of Disney’s “Encanto.” Lyrics will be projected on screen, and voices are encouraged.
Full details and performance times can be found at TheWhiteTheatre.org. Auditions for various musicals and plays produced by The White Theatre will be announced on the website as well as on Facebook.
Tickets for the remainder of the current (2025-2026) season are still on sale at TheWhiteTheatre.org.
