Kansas City Ready to Welcome Jazz Star Karrin Allyson
Kansas City, get ready for a musical treat as jazz luminary Karrin Allyson returns to her roots for an unforgettable performance! The talented vocalist, songwriter, and pianist will be gracing the stage at the Folly Theater on Saturday, September 21, kicking off the Folly Jazz Series for its 2024-25 season. This concert marks her fifth appearance in Kansas City over the last decade, and fans are more excited than ever, especially since it’s her first performance since 2021!
A Cherished Connection to Kansas City
Though Karrin now calls New York City home, having moved there almost 25 years ago, her connection to Kansas City runs deep. As a child, Karrin spent about six formative years here before her family headed to Omaha. However, it was Kansas City that truly molded her as a musician when she returned in the late 1980s to explore the vibrant music scene. “When I first moved here, I got a great — let’s say — education,” she reflected during a recent phone interview.
Over the years, Karrin has become a local favorite, recognized not only for her incredible talent but also for her dedication to her craft. She’s received numerous accolades, including five Grammy nominations and an honorary doctorate from the University of Nebraska-Omaha, her alma mater. She’s also made her mark in the Kansas Music Hall of Fame, a fitting tribute to her contributions to the jazz genre.
New Album and Musical Growth
This performance will shine a spotlight on Karrin’s latest album, A Kiss for Brazil, which is her third release featuring Brazilian music. She sings beautifully in both English and Portuguese and has a repertoire that stretches beyond jazz standards to embrace pop, blues, Broadway classics, and even French chansons. “You know what I hear so much about our shows: ‘I never knew I liked jazz until I heard you,’” she shared, emphasizing her passion for making jazz accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
As a seasoned artist, Karrin has established herself as a regular performer at New York’s famous Birdland Jazz Club, named after the legendary Kansas City native, Charlie “Bird” Parker. She also heads the jazz vocal department at the Hartt School of Music/Jackie McLean Institute of Jazz at the University of Hartford. “I’m here to stay,” she said of her career. “And I still feel like I’m growing musically.”
What to Expect at the Concert
If you’re planning to catch Karrin Allyson’s performance at the Folly Theater, here are some details to help you out:
- Date: Saturday, September 21
- Time: Concert begins at 7:30 p.m.
- Location: Folly Theater, 300 W. 12th St.
- Tickets: Prices range from $31 to $66
- Parking: Available on surrounding streets and in the garage next to the theater ($10-20, credit card only)
Additionally, ticket holders can attend a special pre-show discussion called Jazz Talk, which will be hosted by Steve Paddock starting at 6:30 p.m. This offers a unique chance to hear Karrin talk about her music and answer questions from the audience.
Accessibility Information
It’s important to note that accessibility is limited in some areas of the Folly. If you require assistance or special arrangements, be sure to reach out to the theater at 816-474-4444.
Don’t miss out on this chance to see Karrin Allyson bring her music back to Kansas City. With her dynamic performance style and varied musical repertoire, she promises to deliver a night full of energy and heart. So grab those tickets and get ready for an experience you won’t forget!
