Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts Rolls Out Open Doors Program

The Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, a new center for music, opera, theater, and dance, opening in downtown Kansas City, Missouri in September 2011 announces the launch of the Open Doors program, a community initiative that will connect kids from throughout the metropolitan area to educational programs and performances at the Kauffman Center.

The Open Doors program is designed to give opportunities for young people, especially those with limited experience of the arts, to attend performances at the Kauffman Center, as well as perform on the stages of the Center's two performance spaces, the Muriel Kauffman Theatre and Helzberg Hall.

"Nurturing a love of the arts for present and future generations is at the core of our vision for the Kauffman Center. One of the ways we realize that vision is by bridging gaps between the arts and the needs of individuals, families, organizations, and communities," states Julia Kauffman, Chairman of the Kauffman Center.

Open Doors, the first of its major educational programs, will connect young people to the Kauffman Center through three major components:
· The Open Doors Transportation Fund will offer funding to schools in the metropolitan area so that bringing students to the Kauffman Center for school matinee performances is more affordable

· The Open Doors Ticket Fund will offer access to programming at the Kauffman Center for youth and families through reduced price or free tickets.
· The Open Doors Spotlight on Youth program will inspire and nurture the next generation of artists by giving young performers the opportunity to perform on the stages of the Kauffman Center.

The Transportation Fund will be rolled out this summer so teachers will have the opportunity to receive funding for performances during the upcoming school year.

"We have experienced such enthusiasm and support from young people and families in the community, and are eager to close the accessibility gap that is key to connecting kids to the Kauffman Center and sharing this beautiful facility and the extraordinary performances we have planned," said Jane Chu, President and CEO of the Kauffman Center.

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