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The Grand Lady Had a Rough Night — But She’s Still Standing!

Overnight, our historic theater experienced a break-in that left a lot of damage. The good news? Everyone’s safe, and cleanup is already underway with our friends at SERVPRO.

Damage to the historic theater includes the destruction of all six lobby monitors in the West Lobby box office and concessions area, broken glass in the West Lobby power-assist door, and general disarray in the lobby and bar areas. Food products were thrown across counters and floors, trash cans were overturned, and multiple fire extinguishers were discharged on stage and across the orchestra level floor and seats. We are still in the early stages of assessing the full extent of the loss, which will depend in part on whether the stage lighting and sound equipment were damaged, as well as the value of any stolen items. However, current projections indicate that the total loss will exceed $250,000.

The Folly has seen a lot in her 125 years, but thanks to our incredible community, she always comes back stronger.

Help support the Grand Lady of 12th Street’s recovery. 

Your generous support makes Folly Theater programming possible.

Support the Folly experience today. Your generosity will ensure the Folly’s intimate performances are available to audiences now and for years to come. Please give generously.  Your tax-deductible contribution will help maintain the Folly for future generations to enjoy.

Consider being a monthly donor! A recurring gift of $10, $20, $50, $100, or another amount helps maintain our historic building and create performance memories year-round! Want more information? Contact Brian Williams at 816-768-6886 or [email protected].

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Seat Naming Campaign

Arts supporters: Put your name down in history! Announcing the Folly’s Seat Naming Campaign! As a part of our endowment efforts, which has surpassed $2.5 million thus far, this initiative allows individuals and companies to write their name down in history (and metal) and show their support of the Folly Theater and the growth of the arts in Kansas City. We have a bit to go to reach our second phase goal of five million dollars, but that can be done with your support!

A Folly Theater seat, inscribed with your name, a loved one’s name, your business, or in memoriam, creates a lasting legacy. Your tax-deductible contribution to name a seat will be celebrated by family, friends, peers, and the community. Most importantly, your contribution ensures the sustainability of the Folly to serve many generations yet to come.

Ready to put your name down in Kansas City history as a pillar of society? Give us a call! Reach out to Brian Williams, Director of Development, by phone at 816-768-6886 ext. 102 or email him. He will gladly walk you through the process, your options, and even tour the seats with you so you know where your seat will sit in history.

You can also download the full booklet of information here. If you already know the section you want (broken down in the map below), fill out this form and email it to Brian Williams, [email protected], or mail it to 114 W. 11th St., Suite 150, Kansas City, MO 64105. Brian will contact you soon to start the process.

Below is the map of seats and commitment level for each section.

Legacy

The Folly Theater’s legacy is only possible through the generous donations of our donors and patrons. Through community and individual giving, the Folly continues to thrive as Kansas City’s oldest theater. The Folly will continue to showcase artists and productions that enrich the lives of Kansas Citians and will be more than gracious to receive monies in support of this effort.