KC Performs | New Program Celebrates KC’s Performing Arts

At its best, performance art closes the distance between disparate people — making connections we never thought possible.

That special magic has been sorely missing in Kansas City’s cultural life as crucial performing arts organizations have suspended operations and closed stages during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“When you’re not performing it’s really hard to feel useful, and to feel needed,” said violinist Orin Laursen. “As a professional, and as a person.”

“KC Performs,” a new program developed by Kansas City PBS that will premiere next week, is designed to help close that gap between performer and audience.

Laursen is a member of the Park International Center for Music, a local treasure that is producing some of the best classical musicians in the world.

In the coming weeks, Flatland will share the work of local artists such as Laursen participating in “KC Performs.” You can help close the gap between artists and audiences by enjoying the attached video of Laursen performing “Havanaise,” written in 1887 by French composer Camille Saint-Saëns.