Summer has arrived and along with it, Community Builders of Kansas City’s (CBKC) lineup of free community events. May 18, 2024, marked its fifth year of hosting a free community movie night in partnership with Starlight Theatre. Featuring the live-action version of Disney’s The Little Mermaid, the night also boasted a variety of family fun for kids of all ages.
“CBKC seeks to strengthen families and communities, so it is our honor to host the summer series of events,” said DaRon McGee, CBKC director of community relations. “Movie night is a particular favorite as it consistently provides an entertaining experience for families to gather and enjoy activities they may not typically be able to access.”
Prior to the movie showing, an estimated 3,000 attendees were able to try various percussion instruments courtesy of the Ethnic Enrichment Festival or get a free book from the Kansas City Public Library. Additionally, Kansas City Parks and Recreation provided hula hooping, jump roping and face painting. Stone Lion Puppets delighted movie goers with a whimsical 6-foot octopus bubble maker that captured everyone’s imagination and dance instructors led group dance.
Also in May, CBKC kicked off weekly Steak Nights at KC Sun Fresh on the Boulevard. Customers can enjoy a freshly cut, hand-seasoned, 10-oz. Kansas City Strip grilled to perfection by trained pit master chefs and served with a baked potato, green beans and roll for only $10. A jazz trio and adult beverages are also available as well as event-only sales on select groceries. Each steak night has seen anywhere from 90 to 180 diners.
In keeping with its goal to broaden access to the arts, CBKC hosted Black Folk, a duo with a unique take on traditional folk music, at Englewood Arts Center in Independence on June 14. Performing before a sold-out audience, Black Folk features Debbie Cole on violin, acoustic guitar and vocals and Charlie Harris on bass, guitar, percussion and vocals.
Black Folk’s music is a fusion of classical, blues, jazz and everything in between. Whether playing a soothing ballad with acoustic guitars or swinging with an electric violin and electric bass guitar, the duo never disappoints. The June 14 performance included original songs as well as folksy covers of artists ranging from Stevie Wonder to Rihanna. Black Folk can be seen around town at venues that feature jazz artists as well as those dedicated largely to traditional folk music. You also can catch them at the 2024 Plaza Art Fair in September.
Stay tuned for more summer (and fall) events from CBKC.