Plan Your Visit

Pull Up a Seat. You’ll Fit Right In.

Step into Kansas City’s living room. The Folly, although 1,000 seats, is the most intimate theater you’ll experience. Countless performers have sung great praises for the theater’s majestic acoustics and the ability to see every seat from the stage. The souls of all the performers are etched into the walls of the Folly.

FAQs

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Refunds & Exchanges

All ticket sales are final. In the event an event is postponed to a later date, ticketholders will be notified, and the opportunity for refund and exchanges will be at the presenting organization’s discretion. In the event of a cancellation, all ticket holders will be refunded to their original form of payment.

Can’t attend the performance? For Folly presented events (Jazz Series, Americana Series, etc.), original ticket purchasers may submit tickets purchased through the Folly Theater at least 24 hours before the event as a tax-deductible donation. Contact us at 816-474-4444 or email [email protected].

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Student, Educator, and Military Discounts

On Folly Jazz, Americana, and some of the one-off Folly presented shows, we offer Student, Educator, and Military Discounts.

  • 50% off advance Student/Educator tickets
  • Must be able to present a valid school ID when asked. Valid for all active teachers, professors, principals, and educational staff
  • Valid on the person attending, not the whole party
  • When purchasing online, in the dropdown menu before checkout, please change “Reserved” to “Student/Educator” to receive the discount.
  • Tickets must either be purchased in-person or picked up at Will Call for online orders.
  • Student/Educator rush $15 day of
    • Must present a valid school ID at the box office on the day of, $15 all in tickets for any price level (subject to ticket availability)
  • Military rush ticket $15 day of (2 max with valid ID)
    • Must present a valid military ID at the box office on the day of, $15 all in tickets for any price level (subject to ticket availability)
  • Groups of 10+ call 816-474-4444 or add 10+ tickets to your cart (some shows may have a ticket limit, which will not apply to additional orders under 10, so please call the box office if you run into having to divide orders) for 10% off
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Third Party Ticket Sales

The only authorized ticket links can be found at FollyTheater.org. The Folly Theater does not work directly with any resale platforms (ie, Ticketmaster, StubHub, Ticket Center, Vivid Seats, etc.).

Tickets purchased from an unauthorized agent may be counterfeit, stolen, or otherwise void and may not be valid for admission to the event. The Folly Theater is unable to honor or replace invalid tickets.

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Re-entry

Re-Entry policy is determined by the presenting organization on a show-by-show basis.  If a patron departs a performance with a no-re-entry policy, the patron will be required to purchase another ticket (subject to availability)

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Accessibility

The Folly Theater main entrance is accessible without the use of stairs. Arrangements must be made in advance for seating in accessible rows on the Orchestra level when purchasing tickets online, or by calling 816-474-4444.

As a historic venue, a small lift is located in the West lobby to access the Patron’s lounge, though there’s no full-service elevator system within the Folly Theater to access all levels. We ask that patrons please plan accordingly based on individual physical needs.

Individuals with hearing impairment may request an electronic hearing device from the house manager or an usher. A photo ID may be requested for the use of the device.

Requests for a qualified sign language interpreter should be made at least fourteen (14) business days before the event. While the Folly Theater will attempt to arrange a qualified sign language interpreter on shorter notice, we cannot guarantee availability. Requests can be made to Event Manager Stephanie Spatz-Ornburn at [email protected] or 816-768-6880.

Parking and Location:

Parking is available in the garage next to the theater on 12th Street. The parking fee typically ranges from $15-30 (credit card only) upon entry, while capacity allows. Street Parking is also available in the area.

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Food & Beverage:

Bar Service: Bars serving both alcoholic beverages and soft drinks are available, depending on the event, and are located in the West and Upper Lobbies and must be consumed within the Folly Theater, as state law requires that alcoholic beverages not be carried off-premises.

Outside food and drink are strictly prohibited.

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Late Arrival:

The late arrival policy is determined by the presenting organization on a show-by-show basis. Late arrivers may be asked to wait momentarily in the lobby until an appropriate pause to enter the auditorium and be shown to their seat.

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Underage Patrons:

All event attendees, regardless of age, require a ticket for admission unless specifically stated on the event listings found at follytheater.org.

Some events may not be appropriate for children of all ages due to content, duration, or atmosphere, and we leave discretion to the parent or guardian if they allow exposure of children in their care to the type. We encourage parents and guardians to research the theme and style of the artist(s) in question by viewing publicly published examples (YouTube videos, Netflix specials, etc.).

Though rare, if a tour or presenter restricts access based on age, that information will be listed on the applicable event listings on follytheater.org.

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Prohibited Items:

The following items are not allowed in the Folly Theater:

  • Outside food & beverages

  • Firearms (including concealed carry)

  • Weapons

  • Coolers

  • Balloons

  • Fireworks

  • Illegal Substances

  • Professional cameras without prior arrangements

  • Frisbees

  • Beachballs

  • Spurs

  • Artificial noisemakers

  • Laser Pointers

  • Signs and posters

The list is not exhaustive and subject to change without notice.

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Cell Phone, Cameras, and Other Devices:

Cell phones and mobile devices should be turned to silent mode or turned off during all performances. Any other devices (such as tablets, iPads, or laptops) that may disrupt other patrons’ enjoyment are asked to be turned off or left at home.

Recording any presentation or event in the Folly Theater is strictly prohibited unless otherwise approved by the presenting organization. Approved photographers or videographers may in no way intrude on other patrons’ enjoyment of the performance. If you are seen recording an event, Folly staff may ask for your device, which will be returned after the show. Failure to comply may result in your being asked to leave.

Security:

 Folly Theater staff is dedicated to ensuring the safety and security of all patrons. Those attending a Folly Theater event are expected to abide by the rules of the facility. The Folly Theater does not permit guns or weapons of any kind. Patrons may be screened by security using hand-held wands, and all bags may be checked depending on the security policy in place at the presented performance.

Lost & Found:

Items found in the theater are held for 90 days. To check for lost items, email [email protected] or call the box office during business hours at (816) 474-4444.

Plan Your Perfect Night Out

Date Night

An evening at Folly Theater is where timeless charm meets unforgettable live performance, perfect for a date night that feels a little more dressed up, a little more special, and worth staying out past bedtime. On your romantic evening, enjoy:

  • Taking the KCATA Streetcar, there’s a stop at Metro Center (Main and 12th), approximately three miles from the Folly on 12th and Central
  • Full-service bar, and yes, you can even take your drink with you as you enjoy the show
  • Intimate view of the stage, no matter where you sit
  • Nearby restaurants
  • We’re right next door to the Kansas City Downtown Marriott, so you don’t have to go home.
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School & Family Outings

Introduce young audiences to the magic of live theater with performances designed to spark curiosity, creativity, and a lifelong love for the arts, right here in Kansas City. This series features:

  • A collection of national traveling presenters who produce quality, curriculum-based performances
  • Engaging topics that include children’s literacy, STEM, and social-emotional wellness
  • Open to students, parents, and school groups
  • One free adult with 10 paid student tickets

Recitals & Private Performances

 

Enjoy a space that was made for memorable moments—ideal for recitals, lectures, showcases, and performances that deserve an elegant and intimate spotlight. The Joan Kent Dillon Lounge features:

  • Web camera and audio setup
  • A multi-purpose space
  • Suitable to host and accommodate a variety of needs, including cocktail receptions, smaller live performances, board meetings, lectures, and even additional dressing room space
  • Can host up to 85 guests
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know before you go

Hotel Stay

Want the night to never end? You don’t have to go home. The Kansas City Marriott Downtown is the preferred hotel of the Folly Theater! It is just steps from the Folly entrance.

Hotel Stay

Want the night to never end? You don’t have to go home. The Kansas City Marriott Downtown is the preferred hotel of the Folly Theater! It is just steps from the Folly entrance.

Nearby Eats

Dig in, there are plenty of restaurants around the Folly to spark your appetite before or after the show!

  • Blue Bird Bistro – Eclectic takes on farm-to-table American fare, 1700 Summit St, Kansas City, MO 64108
  • The Savoy –  Americana cuisine, 219 W 9th Street, Kansas City, MO 64105
  • The Majestic Restaurant – Vibrant steakhouse classic, 931 Broadway Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64105
  • Mildred’s – Scratch-made baked goods and coffee, 908 Baltimore Ave. Suite 103, Kansas City, Missouri, 64105
  • Banksia – An Australian Bakehouse and cafe, 1183 Main St Ste 120, KCMO 64105
  • Milwaukee Deli – Pizza, cocktails, sandwiches, salads, 101 W 9th St, Kansas City, MO 64105
 

A further walk or a ride on the KC Streetcar…

  • 801 Chophouse
  • Blue Sushi
  • BRGR
  • Bristol Seafood Grill
  • Chipotle
  • County Road Ice House
  • Guy Fieri’s Dive & Taco Joint
  • Johnny’s Tavern
  • Johnnie’s Jazz Bar & Grill
  • Blue Nile Cafe
  • McFaddens
  • Pizza Bar
  • Yard House
  • Brown & Loe
  • Harry’s Country Club
  • Tribe Street Kitchen
  • The Farmhouse
  • Enzo Bistro & Wine Bar
  • Kansas City Taco Company

Nearby Eats

Dig in, there are plenty of restaurants around the Folly to spark your appetite before or after the show!

  • Blue Bird Bistro – Eclectic takes on farm-to-table American fare, 1700 Summit St, Kansas City, MO 64108
  • The Savoy –  Americana cuisine, 219 W 9th Street, Kansas City, MO 64105
  • The Majestic Restaurant – Vibrant steakhouse classic, 931 Broadway Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64105
  • Mildred’s – Scratch-made baked goods and coffee, 908 Baltimore Ave. Suite 103, Kansas City, Missouri, 64105
  • Banksia – An Australian Bakehouse and cafe, 1183 Main St Ste 120, KCMO 64105
  • Milwaukee Deli – Pizza, cocktails, sandwiches, salads, 101 W 9th St, Kansas City, MO 64105
 

A further walk or a ride on the KC Streetcar…

  • 801 Chophouse
  • Blue Sushi
  • BRGR
  • Bristol Seafood Grill
  • Chipotle
  • County Road Ice House
  • Guy Fieri’s Dive & Taco Joint
  • Johnny’s Tavern
  • Johnnie’s Jazz Bar & Grill
  • Blue Nile Cafe
  • McFaddens
  • Pizza Bar
  • Yard House
  • Brown & Loe
  • Harry’s Country Club
  • Tribe Street Kitchen
  • The Farmhouse
  • Enzo Bistro & Wine Bar
  • Kansas City Taco Company