Students had the opportunity to attend a free performance of “Pictures at an Exhibition” on Feb. 23 at the Kauffman Center.
The partnership between UMKC and the KC Symphony that made this possible began in 2021, after there was mutual interest in building a connection.
“By opening up these doors, we help students step into spaces they may have once believed weren’t meant for them, allowing them to engage with the arts in a way that feels both personal and transformative, inspiring a lifelong appreciation for cultural experiences,” said Afnan Hussain, events and communication specialist for First Gen Roo.
Prior to this event Isabelle Fish, a Kansas City native, had never visited the Kauffman Center.
“Before, you know it was a little intimidating,” said Fish, a health science major. “But when we were in there all sharing the same experience it’s really touching.”
Although this event was the first time many students attended the symphony, the impact of the experience was not lost on those who have visited the Kauffman Center before.
Melissa Araiza previously went to the symphony for a class when she was attending community college. This was her second time seeing a show.
“I felt very emotional. I actually did shed a couple tears,” Araiza said. “I just felt the energy from everybody, how passionate they were about it. You could just tell how strongly they were playing their music, and I just felt very touched I guess.”
Hussain shared the importance of holding events that allow students to discover new possibilities and interests they may not have considered prior.
“This event helped students realize that they too belong at the symphony, breaking the stereotype that it’s only for a select audience,” Hussain said.
This is the third year the UMKC Day at the Symphony event has taken place, and the collaboration will continue in the future.
More events linking the university with the city are coming up, including UMKC Day at the K on April 27, a partnership with the KC Royals.
The Union Programming Board is offering limited free tickets for this event through registration on their RooGroups page.
