Every year, the Midwest Trust Center at Johnson County Community College unveils a season that feels a bit like opening a wondrous treasure chest: a glint of classical music here, a shimmer of dance there, a flash of theatrical mischief, a sparkle of family magic. The 2026–27 season is full of dazzling, precious gems.

Executive Director Stacie McDaniel, who somehow manages to plan multiple seasons at once without losing her mind or her sense of humor, radiates excitement about what’s ahead. “I think I have the best job in the world,” she says, and after hearing what she’s assembled, it’s hard to disagree.

Variety is the name of the game at the Midwest Trust Center. Every season, McDaniel strives to provide the widest range of performances in every genre and style. From world music to classical music from dance to movies accompanied by live orchestra. It may sound like a cliché, but it’s true: there’s something for everyone.

Let’s start with dance

The season opens with Midwest Trust Center’s signature choreographic incubator, New Dance Partners, a project that has become a beloved early‑season ritual. Four internationally known choreographers are paired with four Kansas City–area dance companies, resulting in four brand‑new works created during a residency and premiered on Yardley Hall’s stage.

“It was always really exciting to see what the choreographers came up with, what the mood of the moment was,” McDaniel said, “and also to find the best way to feature all of the wonderful talent we have here with those local dance companies.”

Owen/Cox, now celebrating the company’s 20th anniversary, returns with its raucous, jazz‑infused holiday romp Nutcracker and the Mouse King. “We were excited to welcome them back,” McDaniel said, noting that the production is moving from Polsky Stage to Yardley Hall. “We were excited about what new development that was going to bring in what was already a stellar production.”

In January, the luminous Nai‑Ni Chen Dance Company brings its fusion of Asian traditional dance and contemporary movement to Yardley Hall. “It is amazing modern contemporary dance but also has the flavor of their Asian heritage,” McDaniel said. Expect vibrant colors, ornate costumes, and a celebratory nod to the Lunar New Year.

For younger audiences, Inlet Dance Theatre adapts the bestselling children’s book into a movement‑rich, visually engaging performance. “It was really just a feast for the eyes,” McDaniel said. “The talent of Inlet Dance Company to tell this story through movement was just really inspiring.”

Nai‑Ni Chen Dance Company — January 22