I’m SOOOOO excited to share that I’ll be a part of Variety KC’s inaugural Variety Show: Annie — the first fully inclusive professional musical theatre production in the city’s history. Taking place at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, this one-of-a-kind event runs for four performances only:
Sunday, August 3rd at 2:30 PM
Friday, August 1st at 7:30 PM
Saturday, August 2nd at 2:30 PM & 7:30 PM
The Variety Show is more than a production — it’s a movement toward inclusion, powered by Variety Children’s Charity of Greater Kansas City. This trailblazing effort brings together a cast of 40 paid, professional actors of all abilities, including several performers with disabilities — a true testament to the power of representation and opportunity in the arts.
Adding to the excitement, Variety KC is proud to announce that Aileen Quinn, the original “Annie” from the iconic 1982 film, will take the stage as Lily St. Regis. Aileen became a household name at just nine years old and has continued her career in acting, directing, and music. Her return to Annie—this time in a villainous role—is sure to thrill audiences and create a magical full-circle moment.
Featuring Variety Kids On Stage and Behind the Scenes
In the spirit of inclusion, the production also features:
- 20 Variety Kids (local children with disabilities) in on-stage roles
- 20 Variety Kids working backstage and in front-of-house positions, gaining hands-on experience in professional theatre
Among the talented young cast is Ruby Comfort, a Variety Kid living with spina bifida, who will portray Molly, the youngest orphan. For Ruby, this opportunity is more than a role—it’s a dream come true. Her enthusiasm and talent are already lighting up rehearsals, and she’s eager to share the stage with professional peers, including Aileen Quinn herself.
Why This Matters
“This is not a one-time feel-good event—it’s a new standard for what inclusion in the arts can look like,” says Marc Harrell, Executive Producer of the Variety Show and Executive Director of Variety KC. “We’re not just placing a few kids with disabilities into minor roles. We’re giving them equal footing, equal spotlight, and the chance to shine.”
The Variety Show is intended to become an annual tradition, showcasing the abilities of all performers and building a platform where belonging takes center stage.
Ticket Information
Presale: May 2 – May 25
Presale code: PRESHOW
Public On-Sale: May 26
Pricing: $20 to $50, making this professional production affordable for ALL!
Venue:
Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts
Kansas City, Missouri
Tickets available at https://varietykc.org/events/variety-show. Early booking is encouraged—this historic production is expected to sell quickly.
About the Variety Show
The Variety Show is produced by Variety Children’s Charity of Greater Kansas City, an organization with over 90 years of service to children with disabilities. From funding life-changing equipment to building accessible parks, and now revolutionizing the stage, Variety KC is transforming communities through mobility, communication, and inclusion. For press inquiries, interviews with cast or directors, or to request media passes, please contact aogrady@varietykc.org.
