Community Engagement
We believe the performing arts have the power to inspire, entertain, and connect students of all ages. As part of our core value of Building Community: Development & Outreach, The White Theatre at The J partners with schools and educators to create meaningful theatrical experiences both onstage and in the classroom.
Student Matinee Performances
Schools are invited to attend select student matinee performances throughout the season, giving students the opportunity to experience professional live theatre in an engaging educational environment.
All performances are held in the Lewis & Shirley White Theatre at The J. There are 465 seats available, and they are filled on a first-come, first-served basis.
To learn more about attending a student matinee performance at The White Theatre at The J, please contact our box office via email or 913-327-8054.
"West Side Story" student matinee discussion
Workshops, Master Classes, & Talkbacks
We also offer workshops, master classes, talkbacks, and other interactive opportunities led by our artists and staff, both at the theatre and in schools.
To learn more about bringing a teaching artist or theatre professional to your school, please contact Production Manager Emilie Kodanaz via email or 913-327-8074.
Master Class with students at Indian Hills Middle School
Synagogue Partnerships
Synagogues throughout the Kansas City community are invited to partner with The White Theatre at The J by bringing congregants together through the power of live theatre. As the region’s leading Jewish theatre, The White Theatre at The J offers unique opportunities for synagogues to engage more deeply with Jewish culture, storytelling, and community connection. Congregations may participate for the full season or select individual productions that best align with their interests.
The White Theatre at The J offers:
- Discounted tickets for groups of 10+ from local congregations
- Complimentary tickets for clergy, and an invitation for clergy to lead a discussion after the performance
- Promotional materials and support to help publicize events within your congregation
For synagogues who would like The White Theatre at The J to come to them, an artistic staff member is happy to visit and:
- Speak from the bimah -- speaking topics can include:
- Jewish theatre history
- Discussions of upcoming productions at The White Theatre
- Behind-the-scenes: How a Play Comes to Life
- Lead a Jewish theatre-making workshop
- Workshops can be tailored for all ages and offer an exciting opportunity to use the tools of theatre to enrich Jewish education
- Be a featured speaker for synagogue events and groups
If a synagogue is interested in sponsoring the season or an individual production at The White Theatre at The J, please reach out directly to Artistic Director Jonah Greene via email.
Behind the Scenes
Every production at The White Theatre at The J is brought to life by an extraordinary team of designers, technicians, stage managers, artisans, and crew members whose creativity and craftsmanship make the magic happen night after night. From lighting and sound to costumes, props, scenery, and stage management, our behind-the-scenes artists are an essential part of every performance experience.
Audience members and community groups are invited to learn more about the artistry and collaboration that go into creating live theatre through select backstage tours offered after certain performances. Guests can explore the spaces behind the curtain, learn about the technical elements of a production, and gain a deeper appreciation for the work that happens offstage.
Groups can also schedule an individualized backstage experience or educational tour focused on the process of creating a production. This can be scheduled based on agreed-upon availability.
For those interested in scheduling a customized behind-the-scenes experience, please contact Production Manager Emilie Kodanaz via email.
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