Arts

Public art, performances, gallery crawls, permanent and rotating museum exhibits — Independence is teeming with art, thanks in large part to a local creative community that understands the role art plays in individual and community well-being.

The city’s arts hub, the Englewood Arts District, flourished as a retail and entertainment destination beginning in the 1940s. After the early 2000s closure of landmarks like Art Deco masterpiece, the Englewood Theater, the overlooked neighborhood continued to decline until city and community leaders united to revitalize the arts-focused area. The best way to experience the district is during a monthly Third Friday Art Walk. Galleries and shops are open for extended hours, giving you more time to explore. Be sure to check the Englewood Arts Center’s calendar during your visit. Here, art is plentiful and accessible, whether you want to learn a new technique or medium during a class, see current work from the center’s artists-in-residence or enjoy a live performance.

More arts-focused highlights throughout Independence include the Puppetry Arts Institute, a celebration of puppetry worldwide. Roll up your sleeves and try a puppet painting workshop or take home a puppet kit for a fun DIY afternoon. Several community theaters, including City Theatre of Independence and Children’s Performing Theatre, host shows throughout the year.