-->

UMKC Conservatory Unveils Expansion For Performing Arts Center

The University of Missouri-Kansas City Conservatory unveiled a new expansion for its Olson Performing Arts Center. Image courtesy of Helix Architecture.

Posted May 5, 2025

UMKC Conservatory announced publicly that it has raised about half the funds for the first phase of its latest project, a 35,000-square-foot addition to the Olson Performing Arts Center.

UMKC made the announcement at the Crescendo in Concert performance at the Kauffman Performing Arts Center. The project includes expanding the center’s home for music, dance, and theatre in a phased development.

UMKC leaders said it has gained a pledge from the Muriel McBrien Kauffman Family Foundation, as well as donations to support the project. The university is about halfway to the $35 million goal for the first phase of construction, according to a release. The first phase would add a new music ensemble performance and rehearsal space, two dance rehearsal rooms and support spaces for the dance program and a new accessible black box performance space. The black box space will create a “theatre district” complementing the White Recital Hall, Spencer Theatre and the McIlrath Lobby.

The second phase of the project will renovate existing buildings. Classroom and theatre spaces will be expanded and create more opportunities for special events and performances in its facilities.

Rendering of The University of Missouri-Kansas City Conservatory’s expansion of the Olson Performing Arts Center. Image courtesy of Helix Architecture.

More classroom space will support the newly created minor in integrated performing arts and make performing arts training available to students in other disciplines. The upgrades are expected to boost enrollment by up to 40%, according to the release.

The UMKC Conservatory offers more than 35 academic programs in dance, music and theatre.

“This project isn’t just about bricks and mortar,” UMKC Chancellor Mauli Agrawal said in the release. “It’s about creating a space worthy of our students’ talent. It’s about giving our faculty the tools they need to teach and inspire. And on the practical side, it’s also about building capacity – so we can welcome more students, more collaboration and more connection with the community.”