FAQs
The following are the questions we hear most often from Starlight guests. If you don’t find the answer you’re looking for in our FAQs about Starlight, please contact starlight@kcstarlight.com or (816) 363-7827.
In conformance with local requirements and facility safety precautions, the following items are not allowed to be brought onto Starlight premises:
- Firearms (including concealed permits)
- Knives
- Brass knuckles
- Tasers & mace/pepper spray
- Marijuana and all cannabis products
- Glass and metal water bottles
- Bag Policy: One bag no larger than 12” x 12” x 6.” All bags are subject to be searched.
- Animals (except service animals)
- Booster seats
- Car seats
- Coolers & ice chests
- Detachable camera lenses
- Drones/unmanned aerial vehicles
- Fireworks
- Food & beverages (except one 24 oz commercially sealed or empty bottle of water per person)
- Glass
- Illegal drugs or controlled substances
- Laptops
- Laser pointers
- Lawn chairs
- Professional video or audio recording devices
- Selfie sticks
- Skates and skateboards
Starlight management or event producer may also prohibit any other items deemed dangerous or unacceptable at any time.
Starlight is a cashless venue. The venue accepts payment by credit card for purchases of theatre and concert tickets at our box office. All food and beverage locations accept credit card payments, as does the Ovation Museum. Credit cards accepted are American Express, Discover, MasterCard and Visa. At food and beverage stands within the venue, Apple Pay and Google Wallet are also accepted.
Starlight is a cashless venue. Grass parking is $10 per vehicle. Paved parking is $15 per vehicle.
Starlight Indoors offers free self-parking.
Starlight gift certificates may be used to purchase Broadway season and single tickets, concert tickets, indoor series tickets, prepaid parking, prepaid dining in the Applause Club and souvenirs in the Ovation Museum. Gift certificates may also be applied to registration fees for Starlight’s classes for youth. Gift certificates can be redeemed in person, via phone, or by mail.
Performances at Starlight are held rain or shine, but we are committed to making guest safety our top priority on inclement nights. Our full weather policy is at kcstarlight.com/weather and in each Star Notes program.
Because Starlight is an outdoor venue during the summer season (April-October), we encourage guests to dress comfortably for the weather conditions. Starlight Indoors shows (October-March) are held indoors in climate-controlled spaces; coat check is provided on-site. For all performances, guests must wear clothing appropriate for a venue that caters to families and children. Clothing that is see-through, has profane language/images, is extremely revealing or is deemed inappropriate based on management and/or guest feedback is prohibited. Shirts and shoes are required at all times. Guests who refuse to comply with management requests to rectify the concern may be asked to leave. Refunds will not be issued.
Smoking is prohibited in all areas of the venue except the north lawn and east of the Encore Deck. During concerts and Starlight Indoors, a smoking area for guests is also available outside of the Applause Club. This policy applies to cigarettes, electronic cigarettes, cigars, pipes and any other smoking device.
Items found during a Starlight performance will be turned in to the East Guest Information Kiosk where they may be claimed until the end of the show. After the show, any remaining items are collected and held in our ticket office. To inquire about lost and found items, please call Ticket Services at (816) 363-7827 during normal business hours.
Summer Broadway Series
We encourage guests to arrive as early as possible to avoid traffic congestion, box office lines or other unforeseen delays. Early access through gate 7 at 6 p.m. for all guest who would like to enjoy dinner in the Applause Club, take a venue tour or start the night with a drink on the Encore Deck. Gates open at 7 p.m. for Broadway performances, and the show begins promptly at 8 p.m. If guests aren't seated by that time, per the policy of most Broadway shows, you may be held at the perimeter of the seating area until a designated pause in the performance. At that time, ushers will release guests to be seated.
Summer Concert Series
Concert gate and show times vary, so we encourage guests to arrive in advance of the time printed on their concert tickets.
Fall/Winter Indoor Series
Starlight Indoors show times vary. The Applause Club opens one hour prior to show time. The stage house opens 30 minutes prior to show time. If guests aren't seated by curtain time, per the policy of most shows, you may be held until a designated pause in the performance.
Starlight provides a wide range of food and beverage choices for purchase inside the venue for both theatre and concert events. No outside items are allowed to be brought in, except one commercially sealed bottle of water per person. Empty (24oz or less) re-usable water bottles are allowed. Metal or glass bottles are not allowed. Guests needing to bring in specific items due to medical conditions will be accommodated within reason. This policy is subject to change based on tour restrictions.
NOTE: Restrictions vary by event. We may have to ask that all lids be removed and discarded when entering. Also, bottles that are frozen are not allowed.
Our exchange policy states that ticket exchanges are only available to Broadway season ticket holders. All other ticket sales for Broadway shows, concerts and Starlight Indoors are final.
Broadway season ticket holders should notify the box office at least 24 hours in advance of their scheduled performance to exchange their season tickets for the best available seats on another night of the same show. Exchanges may be made online, in person at the box office, by calling (816) 363-7827 or by mail.
NOTE: If you exchange into a higher-priced night or seats, you will be notified regarding the amount owed. If you exchange into a less-expensive night or seats, your balance will be put on account and can be applied to future ticket purchases, prepaid parking or prepaid Applause Club dining. You may also request the balance be donated to the Starlight Annual Fund as a tax-deductible contribution.
All single ticket sales for Broadway shows, concerts and Starlight Indoors are final. Broadway season ticket holders, however, may bring their unused season tickets to the box office on the evening of another performance of the missed show to purchase the best available seats at 50% off the regular ticket price.
If you misplace or forget to bring your ticket to Starlight, come to the box office with a valid photo ID. We will be able to access your account and reprint your tickets for free.
Children under the age of 3 do not need a ticket to a Broadway show if they can remain seated quietly in an adult’s lap for the duration of the performance. For concerts and Starlight Indoors, all guests, regardless of age, must have a valid ticket.
Summer Broadway/Concert
NEW for 2023! General parking at Starlight is free and based on a first come, first served basis. Depending on your entry point to Swope Park, you will be directed to the nearest lot (grass or paved).
Guests may access parking at Starlight Theatre from three points of entry to Swope Park:
- Meyer Boulevard
- 63rd Street
- Elmwood Avenue/Gregory Boulevard
Premium paved parking is available for $30 per car and may be purchased in advance at the time of ticket purchase only. Guests that have purchased premium parking will need to enter Swope Park through the 63rd Street entry point.
All Broadway season ticket holders receive FREE paved parking - a $150 value.
Weather permitting, Starlight will provide shuttles from paved parking lots that can aid in transporting guests with mobility issues to the nearest entry gate.
Summer Broadway/Concert
However, if you prefer to drop off a guest who needs assistance, you may do so outside Gate 4 (NW corner, closest to Terrace 6), Gate 6 (NE corner, closest to Terrace 7) or Gate 7 (SE corner, by east ticket office).
Our GuestASSIST team is happy to provide wheelchair assistance from the drop-off location to a seat before the show and back to the drop-off point after the show. There may be a small amount of wait time if demand for wheelchair assistance exceeds the supply of trained staff.
Fall/Winter Indoor Series
Patrons who need special assistance may be dropped off at a designated point near gate 8.
Starlight’s drop-off and pick-up location is at Gate 4 (NW corner, closest to Terrace 6). The designated post-show inbound vehicle lane is at the park’s 63rd Street entrance. Vehicles may enter through any park entrance after post-show traffic clears.
Starlight has an arrangement with Kansas City Transportation Group (Yellow Cab, 10/10 Taxi and zTrip) to pick up guests at Gate 4 (NW corner, closest to Terrace 6). To schedule a taxi pickup, call (816) 471-5000 or (888) 471-6050. The company also offers the option to text for a cab at (816) 805-6388. Uber pickups may also be arranged by Starlight guests.
Not at this time although we are working with the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority to add service in the future.
Starlight provides a wide range of food and beverage choices for purchase inside the venue for both theatre and concert events. No outside items are allowed to be brought in, except one 24 oz commercially sealed bottle of water per person. Empty (24 oz or less) reusable water bottles are allowed at Broadway events only. Guests needing to bring in specific items due to medical conditions will be accommodated within reason. This policy is subject to change based on tour restrictions.
NOTE: Restrictions vary by event. We may have to ask that all lids be removed and discarded when entering. Also, bottles that are frozen are not allowed at concerts.
Summer Broadway
The Applause Club is Starlight’s on-site restaurant for Broadway events and on-site VIP Club for concerts. Broadway guests are encouraged to arrive early to enjoy one of two dinner buffets:
- KC Barbecue Buffet. Dining on the patio outside the Applause Club, guests enjoy a casual but hearty buffet dining experience alongside Starlight’s picturesque fountains. In keeping with a Kansas City tradition, our new KC Barbecue Buffet offers tasty food choices for diners who love their barbecue and traditional sides! Table service is provided for soft drink refills and adult beverage purchases. Soft drinks and dessert are included in the dinner price. Gratuity is not included.
- Best of Broadway Buffet. A more upscale dining experience is offered inside the fully air-conditioned club. Guests enjoy chef-inspired selections, full table service and the option to complement their meal with wine pairings by the glass or bottle. Guests are encouraged to purchase Applause Club buffets in advance as nightly seating is limited. Walk-ups are welcomed as seating allows. See the Dining page on our website for pricing details and sample menus.
Summer Concert Series
During the Starlight concert series, the Applause Club is only open to VIP season ticket holders and guests who have pre-purchased VIP access for the evening. The club offers VIP guests a private cash bar, optional buffet, private restrooms, pre-show band performances and more. See the Concert VIP page on our website to learn about season ticket opportunities.
Fall/Winter Indoor Series
The Applause Club serves as a lobby area for all guests to convene pre- and post-show. Concessions, restrooms and coat check are provided in this area.
To ensure the safety of all guests, Starlight reserves the right to inspect persons, parcels or clothing capable of concealing or carrying prohibited items into the venue in situations where health, safety or well-being may be compromised. For concerts, we inspect guest bags and parcels and, because policies often vary by concert, more extensive inspections may be conducted, including pat-downs and use of magnetic wands.
Guests are welcome to bring cell phones and/or small point-and-shoot cameras (no detachable lenses) into Starlight to take photos of friends, family and the Starlight venue before the show begins. When the curtain rises for a theatre performance however, photographing, videotaping or audio-recording any portion of the performance, stage setup, props or costumes without written consent of management is strictly prohibited. For concerts, artist restrictions vary but most allow small non-professional cameras in the seating area. GoPros, selfie sticks, iPads, laptop computers and other devices are not always allowed, so please plan accordingly and be flexible.
NOTE: Drones/unmanned aerial vehicles are never allowed.
Starlight provides a wide range of food and beverage choices for purchase inside the venue for both theatre and concert events. No outside items are allowed to be brought in, except one 24oz commercially sealed bottle of water per person. Empty (24oz or less) re-usable water bottles are allowed. Metal or glass bottles are not allowed. Guests needing to bring in specific items due to medical conditions will be accommodated within reason. This policy is subject to change based on tour restrictions.
NOTE: Restrictions vary by event. We may have to ask that all lids be removed and discarded when entering. Also, bottles that are frozen are not allowed at concerts.
In conformance with local requirements and facility safety precautions, the following items are not allowed to be brought onto Starlight premises:
- Firearms (including concealed permits)
- Knives
- Brass knuckles
- Tasers & mace/pepper spray
- Marijuana and all cannabis products
- Bag Policy: One bag no larger than 12” x 12” x 6.” All bags are subject to be searched.
- Animals (except service animals)
- Booster seats
- Car seats
- Coolers & ice chests
- Detachable camera lenses
- Drones/unmanned aerial vehicles
- Fireworks
- Food & beverages (except one 24 oz commercially sealed or empty bottle of water per person)
- Glass
- Illegal drugs or controlled substances
- Laptops
- Laser pointers
- Lawn chairs
- Professional video or audio recording devices
- Selfie sticks
- Skates and skateboards
Starlight management or event producer may also prohibit any other items deemed dangerous or unacceptable at any time.
Summer Broadway Series
We encourage guests to arrive as early as possible to avoid traffic congestion, box office lines or other unforeseen delays. Early access through gate 7 at 6 p.m. for all guest who would like to enjoy dinner in the Applause Club or start the night with a drink on the Encore Deck. Gates open at 7 p.m. for Broadway performances, and the show begins promptly at 8 p.m. If guests aren't seated by that time, per the policy of most Broadway shows, you may be held at the perimeter of the seating area until a designated pause in the performance. At that time, ushers will release guests to be seated.
Summer Concert Series
Concert gate and show times vary, so we encourage guests to arrive in advance of the time printed on their concert tickets.
Fall/Winter Indoor Series
Starlight Indoors show times vary. The Applause Club opens one hour prior to show time. The stage house opens 30 minutes prior to show time. If guests aren't seated by curtain time, per the policy of most shows, you may be held until a designated pause in the performance.
Performances at Starlight are held rain or shine, but we are committed to making guest safety our top priority on inclement nights. Our full weather policy is at kcstarlight.com/weather and in each Star Notes program.
Summer Broadway/Concert
Umbrellas are always admitted into the venue for Broadway shows, but they may not be opened in the seating area where they would block the view of fellow guests.
Umbrellas are not admitted into the venue for concerts. In the case of inclement weather, ponchos may be purchased for $1 at our Guest Information kiosks, the Ovation Museum and ticket offices.
Fall/Winter Indoor Series
At Starlight Indoors, you only need an umbrella from the car to the front door of the Applause Club. For your convenience, you may leave your umbrella at the complimentary coat check during the show.
We ask that guests silence their cell phones at theatre performances, but they can leave their phones on vibrate to emergency receive text messages. If someone cannot reach you on your phone, they should call (816) 363-7827 and leave a voice mail message with their name, your name, your seat location and a brief description of their need. The message will be forwarded to a Starlight staff member who will attempt to locate you.
We understand and share the concern. As stated in the Starlight Etiquette policy published in each Star Notes program, we encourage guests to “remember that the show is not over until the actors have completed their bows. Please show your gratitude by remaining at your seat and applauding their performance.” We hope Starlight guests will read and respect this policy – and our performers!
ADA-accessible seating is located in most price levels at Starlight.
Summer Broadway/Concert
Accessible parking for Broadway shows and Concerts is provided in the east lot (closest to Gate 6).
All Broadway season ticket holders receive FREE premium parking for the 2023 season - a $75 value.
Starlight offers many accommodations for our guests in need of ADA-related services. Please review the Accessibility page on our website for full details.
Fall/Winter Indoor Series
Patrons who need special assistance may be dropped off at a designated point near gate 8.
Summer Broadway Series
The Saturday performance of each Broadway show is interpreted via audio description for blind and visually impaired guests. Special seating is not required to utilize the service. Guests may attain an audio-description device at the Audio-Reader Network table behind Terrace 2 by leaving a photo ID; the ID will be returned when the guest returns the device after the performance. Audio-Reader Network, associated with the University of Kansas, provides our description service.
Fall/Winter Indoor Series
Starlight Indoors will not offer audio-described performances.
Summer Broadway Series
The Sunday performance of each Broadway show is interpreted for deaf and hard-of-hearing guests. Two interpreters are positioned on the stage at house right. Seats in sections 4 and 6 of Orchestra, Box and Plaza offer the best views of the sign interpreters. Deaf and hard-of-hearing guests may purchase tickets by calling Kansas Relay at (800) 766-3777 or Missouri Relay at (800) 735-2966.
In addition, assistive listening devices are free at every Broadway performance. Guests may obtain a device at the Ovation Museum by leaving a photo ID; the ID will be returned when the device is returned after the performance.