Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts

The idea of creating a new performing arts center in Kansas City was discussed Muriel Kauffman in 1994. 13 years later, after choosing world-renowned architect Moshe Safdie (and LEGO Architecture set alumni!) as the designer, the doors opened on what would become one of Kansas City's most iconic buildings, and one of the finest theaters and music halls in the country.

The facility features two halls - the larger venue, called the Muriel Kauffman Theater, seats 1,800 people, and is home to the Kansas City Ballet and Lyric Opera of Kansas City. The horseshoe-shaped theater has several tiers of balconies, with murals designed by local students projected onto the walls.

The smaller venue, Helzberg Hall, seats 1,600 people, and is home to the Kansas City Symphony Orchestra. Acoustics was taken into consideration with every material selection, shape, and architectural move. The fanning expression that is so iconic on the north facade is echoed inside the hall, surrounding the centerpiece, the 5,548 pipe Julia Irene Kauffman Casavant Organ.

The two halls are connected by a large glass tent-like lobby that overlooks the Crossroads District. The glass is supported by cables in tension that become a part of the iconic image of the hall. The final composition of the building sits nestled in a carefully sculpted and curving site, with an underground parking garage below that becomes a part of the entry sequence.

Architect: Safdie Architects (Moshie Safdie)

Built: 2011

Cost: $413 million

Size: 285,000-square-feet (26,500 m<sup style="color: rgb(32, 33, 34);">2</sup>)

Location: Kansas City, Missouri

The model features many intricate details and building techniques that replicate the iconic building and make for a fun, challenging build and a wonderful addition to any LEGO Architecture collection. As you build, can learn about the history of the facility, as well as build a replica of Muriel Kauffman Theater, Helzberg Hall, and the parking garage. Other details throughout the model include the historic building that houses the Kansas City Symphony Offices, the native prairie landscaping, parking garage entries, the iconic metal panel geometry, and the cable structure that supports the lobby.

Dimensions: 11.5" (29.2 cm) W x 11.8" (29.9 cm) L x 4.2" (10.6 cm) H

Pieces: 1,904

If you would be interested in seeing the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts become a LEGO set so that it can join your collection, please vote to support my idea.

Thank you!