In the Mood for Gratitude

To help get us in the mood for gratitude, the team at Starlight is thinking about all the things we’re thankful for in 2024.

Overall, it was another busy year with more than 200,000 visitors coming to a Broadway show or concert. Almost 5,000 students from local schools were able to come to free performances; some for their first ever theatre experience! We gave out thousands of first-time visitor buttons, enjoyed visits from bunches of Little Mermaids and Tinkerbells, and we had so much fun watching people complete scavenger hunts.

Here’s what some of the Starlight team is thankful for this year:

“I’m thankful for community. Whether it’s the community of supporters and audience members who believe in Starlight’s work or the community of staff behind the scenes and the celebrations we share after events and the laughs we have during lunch — I feel really, really grateful to be a part of it all.” – Denton

“I have so many things to be thankful for this year! My family and friends, of course, who know me best and accept me for my authentic self. My goofy daughter for bringing humor to even the most mundane moments, and for brightening up my workspace with an endless supply of artwork. My peers on the Philanthropy team. Considering we spend the majority of my waking hours together, it’s a good thing we like each other! They’re such thoughtful, creative, and fun people, and I’m thankful that our camaraderie can transform even the most challenging situations into shared adventures.” – Erin

“My wife and I are grateful for the fuzzy friends in our life! Our three pets Max (dog), Wayne (long hair cat), and Wax (short hair cat) make life better every week.” – Colin

“I’m thankful that I was able to introduce my three-year-old to theatre this year! He loved The Little Mermaid (and Dippin’ Dots) and kept saying, ‘this was such a fun day’ as we left Starlight. Then, we enjoyed Journey to Oz together this fall. I can’t wait to bring him to Frozen next summer!” – Rachel

“This year, I’m especially thankful to Starlight for helping Kansas City feel like home. After just 18 months in Kansas City, I am overwhelmed with gratitude for the incredible people who have welcomed me—my family, the friends I’ve made, and, remarkably, the entire Starlight community. From staff and volunteers to donors and guests, Starlight has truly embraced me. When I experienced Starlight for the first time last year, I felt an immediate connection to this city and its vibrant spirit. As someone who deeply values community, being part of magical evenings under the stars, surrounded by happy faces and shared joy, has been unforgettable.” – Juliana

This year I am thankful for joining a community of people who are invested in and support the arts and local communities! Since joining the Starlight team, I have been able to talk with the people that visit our venue, which has allowed me to make so many new connections that I am thankful for!! – Trinidy

Weddings seemed to be a theme. I guess we’re just loveable people at Starlight!

“I am thankful for my community – and I mean this in every sense of the word! I’m grateful to be surrounded by the people in my life like my fiancé, friends, and family who love and support me every day. And I’m grateful to work at an organization like Starlight – I am constantly inspired by the work that we do, and I am thankful that I can call so many of the incredibly talented employees my personal friends!” – Sydney

“I am thankful for the amazing support system I have in my life – my fiancé, family, friends, coworkers – much of my success and joy comes from them and I couldn’t be more grateful.” – Katie M.

“This year, I am thankful for my family, fiancé, friends, and coworkers. Planning a wedding is not for the weak and I greatly appreciate all the support I have gotten over the course of the last few months. Being able to talk through ideas and planning with other people from different aspects of my life has been very refreshing. Also, I’m always thankful for my dogs!” – Tanis

As for me, I’m thankful for such great teammates who are willing to share what they are thankful for this year! You are the best!! – Jodi

Thank you to everyone who was a part of Starlight this year. We wish you a happy ending to 2024 and look forward to seeing you again soon!