Artful Connections

Host Michael Mackie sits down with Stacie McDaniel, Executive Director of the Midwest Trust Center at Johnson County Community College, to discuss one of Kansas City's leading performing arts organizations located in Johnson County and the first organization featured that is not located on the Streetcar line. McDaniel provides insights on the uniqueness of Midwest Trust Center, which provides two theaters, free parking and is located in Johnson County. The conversation also explores the upcoming 2026-2027 season, highlights including New Dance Partners, The Billy Joel Legacy, The Owen/Cox Dance Group's rendition of The Nutcracker and the Mouse King, the Winterlude Jazz Festival and Hold On To Your Butts. 

Host Michael Mackie sits down with Stuart Carden, Artistic Director of the Kansas City Repertory Theatre, to discuss the future of one of Kansas City's leading performing arts organizations. Carden shares an update on KCRep's search for a new theater venue, what the organization needs in its next home and whether it plans to continue using Copaken Theater after the move. The conversation also explores Kansas City's evolving arts landscape as KCRep, the UMKC Conservatory, and the Kansas City Symphony simultaneously pursue new venues and fundraising campaigns. The episode concludes with a preview of KCRep's 2026–2027 season, including A Christmas Carol, featuring a new Scrooge, and Come From Away, a musical inspired by events on 9/11, coinciding with the 25th anniversary.

Host Michael Mackie sits down with Quinton Lucas, Mayor of Kansas City, Missouri. Get an inside look at Mayor Lucas's insights on the FIFA World Cup 26™ Kansas City and what it means for Kansas City's future. Hear the mayor's thoughts on the City's growing cultural landscape, including the new arts destinations in the 18th & Vine area and the Kansas City Symphony's new venue in the South Plaza district. He shares where he would like to see the Kansas City Streetcar expand in the future and provides a status update on the South Loop project, as well as who he would like to see at the new Morton Amphitheater. He also discusses the need to continue to grow the number of murals by local artists and films produced in Kansas City. Finally, Mayor Lucas states what he would like his legacy to be in the last year of his tenure.

Host Michael Mackie sits down with Sidonie Garrett, Executive Artistic Director of the Heart of America Shakespeare Festival. Their discussion centers around the upcoming 2026 production of Macbeth. Garrett discusses tips for the ultimate "theatrical tailgating" experience and why Southmoreland Park is the ideal place for residents and visitors to the upcoming World Cup to experience classic Shakespeare in an inviting setting for ​free. They also discuss continuing educational partnerships with local organizations such as The Black Repertory Theater of Kansas City and plans for their big 35th anniversary in 2027. Garrett hopes that the recently opened KC Streetcar extension will allow more visitors and residents to experience future Heart of America Shakespeare Festivals.

Host Michael Mackie sits down with Dr. Peggy Shannon, The Nerman Family President of the Kansas City Art Institute, to explore the school's evolving strategic vision. They discuss Marble & Canvas, the new on‑campus retail store showcasing student and alumni work, and how the Streetcar extension is already boosting foot traffic along The Arterie—Kansas City's emerging cultural corridor. The upcoming Selfie Love Scavenger Hunt will allow residents and World Cup visitors to experience the entire cultural corridor, take pictures and win prizes throughout the summer.