Artful Connections

KC Studio
  • 5.0 (4)
  • Arts
  • Updated Monthly

Artful Connections is a monthly podcast bringing you candid conversations with the arts leaders, cultural champions and civic voices shaping Kansas City's creative future.

  1. 2h ago

    Conversation with Dr. Matthew Naylor, President and CEO of the National World War I Museum and Memorial

    Host Michael Mackie sits down with Dr. Matthew Naylor, President and CEO of the National WWI Museum and Memorial, as the institution prepares to celebrate its 100th anniversary. Naylor shares plans for this milestone—including art installations illuminating the Memorial's iconic tower—and reveals how the Museum is continuing to evolve with immersive exhibits, technology and vision for the future. Hear the fascinating story of why the Museum is in Kansas City and its enduring relevance today. Learn more about the impact of the 2026 FIFA World Cup and future Kansas City Royals stadium plans, and why the Museum has become Kansas City's "front porch" for the world. Finally, Naylor reflects on the legacy he hopes to leave when his tenure comes to an end in 2027.

  2. Sep 2

    Conversation with Stacie McDaniel, Executive Director of the Midwest Trust Center at Johnson County Community College

    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.

  3. Aug 5

    Conversation with Stuart Carden, Artistic Director of the Kansas City Repertory Theatre

    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.

    Conversation with Stuart Carden, Artistic Director of the Kansas City Repertory Theatre

  4. Jul 1

    Conversation with Mayor Quinton Lucas, Mayor of Kansas City

    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.

  5. Jun 3

    Conversation with Sidonie Garrett, Executive Artistic Director of the Heart of America Shakespeare Festival

    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.

  6. May 6

    Conversation with Dr. Peggy Shannon, The Nerman Family President of the Kansas City Art Institute

    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.

  7. Apr 1

    Conversation with Kathy Nelson, CEO & President of the Kansas City Sports Commission & Visit KC, and Lindsey Douglas, Chief Operating Officer of KC 2026

    Host Michael Mackie sits down with Kathy Nelson, CEO & President of the Kansas City Sports Commision & Visit KC, and Lindsey Douglas, Chief Operating Officer of KC2026, to discuss how the World Cup will impact international, national and regional visitors and local residents. Transportation options including the new Streetcar extensions are discussed as key components of accessibility for all events from May through July in Kansas City and for easy accessibility to cultural arts activities for residents and visitors after the World Cup.

  8. Mar 4

    Conversation with Jon Stephens, KC Port Authority

    Host Michael Mackie sits down with Jon Stephens, CEO & President of KC Port Authority to discuss the development of the River Market and Riverfront areas, their current and upcoming programs and future strategic plans. Jon discusses exciting new projects, like the transformation of the historic Scarritt Building into the upcoming UMusic Hotel, which will provide a unique experience for performers and hotel guests. He also discusses how the upcoming extension of the Streetcar to Berkley Park and expanding the riverfront trails from Rock Island Bridge to the East Bottoms will enhance accessibility and improve walkability to residents and visitors alike.

See All (14)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

Artful Connections is a monthly podcast bringing you candid conversations with the arts leaders, cultural champions and civic voices shaping Kansas City's creative future.

Information

  • Creator
    KC Studio
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    14
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025
  • Show Website
    Artful Connections

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