Performing Arts
As the capital of Kansas, Topeka's performing arts scene is filled with variety, passion and fun. Don't miss the amazing musicals, dramas and comedies on stage at the Topeka Civic Theatre and Academy, the nation's oldest continually operating community dinner theater. The Helen Hocker Center in Gage Park specializes in family favorites and children's performances, while the Ad Astra Theatre Ensemble stages edgy and thought-provoking productions.
From renowned masterpieces to high-energy pop, the Topeka Symphony Orchestra delights audiences with its talented musicians and guest artists. Quality entertainment is always on schedule at the beautiful Topeka Performing Arts Center, an Art Deco theatre turned state-of-the-art performance venue, and at the Kansas Expocentre, a premier event facility for concerts, sporting events and more.
With venues big and small, Topeka is no stranger to the performing arts! Read on to learn about some of the stages that call the capital city “home.”
TOPEKA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
Suited to accommodate Broadway touring companies, world-class orchestras and major dance companies, the Topeka Performing Arts Center is a multi-purpose venue that hosts large concerts, plays, musical performances and more in an elegant, Art-Deco style space. For a calendar of upcoming events, visit TopekaPerformingArts.org.
HISTORIC JAYHAWK THEATRE
Downtown’s Historic Jayhawk Theatre was built in 1926, opening as a deluxe entertainment palace. Restoration of the official State Theatre of Kansas is underway, allowing visitors to see this historic site in a state of transition. Visit JayhawkTheatre.org to learn more about this aging beauty’s return to its former glory as a vibrant entertainment venue hosting a variety of main-stage acts.
TOPEKA CIVIC THEATRE AND ACADEMY
Founded in 1936, the Topeka Civic Theatre claims to be the oldest continuously operating community dinner theatre in the country! With both dinner and non-dinner shows, as well as bar service and delightful desserts, you’ll want to catch a show on the TCT mainstage during your next trip to Topeka. From improv comedy to coveted fresh-from-Broadway productions, TCT is a Topeka treat.
THE STORMONT VAIL EVENTS CENTER
From demolition derbies and sporting events to country concerts and Cirque Du Soleil, Stormont Vail Events Center hosts a variety of experiences appealing to many different audiences. Annual exhibits and fairs are also held here throughout the year.