Eighteen years after its premiere, Underground by Störling Dance Theater continues to captivate audiences.
Why does it endure? Because the show’s cast, crew, and the Kansas City community remain steadfast in their belief in Underground’s timeless message: unity and the triumph of good over evil.
Returning for one public performance on Friday, Feb. 7, 2025, at 7:30 p.m., this year’s production will feature Kansas City native and Gospel recording artist Regina Sims, whose smooth, soulful voice will close the evening on a powerful note.
Since its premiere at the Lyric Theater on February 8–9, 2008, Underground has vividly brought to life the heroic stories of the Underground Railroad.
According to Executive Producer Jeremiah Enna, its annual production wasn’t initially planned:
“After the first performances, it was clear the audience was impacted and wanted the show to return.”
Over the years, Underground has grown into a beloved tradition for Kansas City, not only transforming audiences but also deeply impacting the lives of cast members and the wider community. Bonds formed during rehearsals, conversations deepened, and even the cast’s children grew up participating in what they affectionately call “Underground season.”
“Year after year, the message of Underground has been a consistent reminder of where we’ve been and where we can be,” said Christopher Peacock, an original cast member who plays Jed, a slave escaping to freedom. “Participating in the show is a small part of a larger impact happening in the lives of KC residents and beyond, including my own.”
The show’s impact extends beyond the stage. Unite KC, a nonprofit fostering racial healing in Kansas City, is partly a product of friendships and inspiration cultivated by Underground. Ray Jarrett, Executive Director of Unite KC, shares, “The show reminds us to emulate the courage of historical heroes and work toward unity in our own lives.”
Jeremiah Enna underscores the importance of seizing this opportunity:
“It takes a lot to bring the show to the Kauffman stage. We don’t take this opportunity lightly and are grateful every time the curtain rises. Don’t put off seeing the show for another year. Now is the time!”
Details:
- Date & Time: Friday, Feb. 7, 2025, at 7:30 p.m.
- Location: Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts
- Tickets: Visit https://www.gounderground.org/tickets or call 816.994.7222.
Launched in 1996, Störling Dance Theater is a Kansas City-based neo-classical modern dance company. In addition to local performances, the group has toured the United States, Canada, and Central Asia. They are the professional dance company in residence at The Culture House, a premier arts center in Olathe, Kansas.
For more information, visit www.storlingdance.org and www.gounderground.org.
Don’t miss this transformative experience that transcends the stage — a movement toward understanding, healing, and unity.
