BOOP!
Kansas City

Betty Boop's Broadway Journey — How an Animated Icon Became a Stage Sensation

When Betty Boop first sashayed across movie screens in 1930, she was a revelation — a cartoon character with personality, attitude, and a voice that audiences could not forget. Created by animator Max Fleischer and voiced by a succession of talented performers, Betty became the first animated character to embody genuine star power. Her bobbed hair, wide eyes, and signature catchphrase made her a cultural phenomenon during the Great Depression, and her image has endured across nearly ten decades as a symbol of independence, glamour, and playful defiance. Bringing that legacy to Broadway required a creative team willing to honor nearly a century of cultural significance while building something entirely original for the stage.

Composer David Foster approached the Boop! score with the same melodic craftsmanship that has defined his career as one of the most successful songwriters and producers in popular music history. His 16 Grammy Awards span collaborations with artists from Chicago to Whitney Houston, and his work on Boop! channels that gift for emotional, accessible melody into a theatrical context. Lyricist Susan Birkenhead, a Tony nominee whose credits include Jelly's Last Jam, matched Foster's music with words that balance wit and warmth, while book writer Bob Martin — who won the Tony for The Drowsy Chaperone — constructed a narrative that gives Betty genuine emotional stakes without sacrificing the playfulness that makes her beloved.

The Broadway production at the Broadhurst Theatre ran from March through July 2025, with Jasmine Amy Rogers earning a Tony nomination for her portrayal of Betty and Gregg Barnes receiving a nod for his inventive costume designs that translated the exaggerated proportions of animation into stunning theatrical fashion. Director and choreographer Jerry Mitchell, known for his Tony-winning work on Kinky Boots, filled the stage with movement that ranged from precision tap numbers to contemporary ensemble pieces, creating a visual vocabulary that bridged the gap between Betty's two-dimensional origins and the three-dimensional world of live theater. David Rockwell's scenic design and Finn Ross's projection work added layers of animated magic that delighted critics and audiences alike.

The national tour's 50-city itinerary reflects the broad appeal of both the Betty Boop character and the quality of the Broadway production. From Rochester to Kansas City, each tour stop introduces Boop! to new audiences across diverse theatrical markets. The Kauffman Center engagement in March 2027 brings the show to one of America's most celebrated modern performance venues, where the production's demanding technical requirements — including intricate projection mapping, rapid costume changes, and a full Broadway orchestra — will be supported by the Muriel Kauffman Theatre's world-class infrastructure. Other confirmed tour cities include Detroit at the Fisher Theatre, Louisville at the Kentucky Center, Atlanta at the Fox Theatre, Houston at the Hobby Center, Orlando at the Dr. Phillips Center, Tampa at the Straz Center, Fort Worth at Bass Performance Hall, Las Vegas at The Smith Center, and Tempe at ASU Gammage.

For Kansas City audiences, the arrival of Boop! at the Kauffman Center represents the kind of event that has made the venue one of the most successful Broadway touring houses in the region. The show's combination of a familiar cultural icon, a Grammy-caliber score, and Broadway-level production values makes it an ideal draw for theatergoers of all ages and experience levels. Whether you grew up watching Betty Boop cartoons, know her from decades of merchandising and pop culture references, or are encountering the character for the first time through this musical, the Kauffman Center engagement promises a theatrical evening that is as visually spectacular as it is emotionally engaging.

Beyond its entertainment value, Boop! The Musical represents an intriguing case study in how beloved intellectual properties can find new life on the Broadway stage. Unlike jukebox musicals that rely on existing catalogs of popular songs, Boop! features an entirely original score composed specifically for the theater. David Foster's melodies give Betty a musical voice she never had in her animated incarnation, while the show's narrative explores themes of identity and belonging that connect with audiences far beyond the character's nostalgic appeal. The result is a production that functions as both a tribute to an American icon and a standalone musical with its own emotional core and artistic ambition.

How to Buy Boop! The Musical Kansas City Tickets

Where can I buy Boop! Kansas City tickets?

Tickets may be available through the Kauffman Center box office and authorized primary sellers. You can also visit the official Boop! The Musical website for tour information. Verified resale tickets are available on BigStub, a trusted third-party marketplace with no hidden fees and a buyer guarantee backed by over 20 years of experience.

When does Boop! The Musical play at the Kauffman Center?

Boop! The Musical is scheduled at the Muriel Kauffman Theatre from March 2 through 7, 2027. The engagement includes evening performances and matinees over the week-long run. Visit the Kauffman Center website for specific showtimes and updated availability.

What should I know about the Muriel Kauffman Theatre?

The Muriel Kauffman Theatre is the larger of two performance halls within the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, located at 1601 Broadway Boulevard in downtown Kansas City, Missouri. The theater seats 1,800 guests and features acoustics designed by Yasuhisa Toyota. Parking is available in nearby garages and surface lots, and the venue is a short walk from the Power and Light District.

Are resale tickets for Boop! safe to buy?

Yes — BigStub and other reputable resale platforms verify all sellers and guarantee every purchase. BigStub has been serving ticket buyers for more than two decades and holds the highest Trustpilot rating in the ticket resale industry. Every ticket is authenticated before delivery, and dedicated customer support is available throughout the process.

Can I resell my tickets if I cannot attend?

If your plans change, you may be able to list your tickets on authorized resale platforms. Many marketplaces allow verified ticket holders to resell their seats to other fans. Check the terms of your original purchase for any restrictions on transfers or resale.

Boop! The Musical Kansas City — Frequently Asked Questions

What is Boop! The Musical about?

Boop! The Musical follows Betty Boop as she leaps from her animated cartoon world into the overwhelming reality of modern New York City. Along the way, she discovers what it truly means to be herself while navigating friendship, adventure, and the unexpected challenges of the real world. The show features an original story with music by David Foster.

How long is a Boop! The Musical performance?

Performances of Boop! The Musical typically run approximately two hours and 15 minutes, including one intermission. Exact running times may vary slightly by venue and production.

Who wrote the music for Boop! The Musical?

The score is by David Foster, a 16-time Grammy Award-winning composer and producer. Lyrics are by Tony-nominated Susan Birkenhead, and the book is by Tony Award winner Bob Martin, best known for The Drowsy Chaperone.

Who directed and choreographed Boop! The Musical?

Jerry Mitchell directed and choreographed the production. Mitchell is a Tony Award winner for Kinky Boots and has directed numerous Broadway hits including Legally Blonde and La Cage aux Folles.

What awards did Boop! The Musical receive on Broadway?

The Broadway production earned three Tony Award nominations in 2025, including nods for Best Leading Actress, Best Costume Design, and Best Direction. The show also won three Drama Desk Awards and three Outer Critics Circle Awards.

Is Boop! The Musical family-friendly?

Yes, Boop! The Musical is designed to entertain audiences of all ages. The colorful visuals, lively choreography, and uplifting story make it suitable for families, though very young children may find the full runtime challenging.

Where is the Kauffman Center located?

The Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts is located at 1601 Broadway Boulevard in downtown Kansas City, Missouri. It is easily accessible from I-35 and is close to the Power and Light District, with parking available in nearby garages and lots.

Who designed the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts?

The Kauffman Center was designed by renowned architect Moshe Safdie and opened in 2011. Its distinctive stainless steel and glass exterior has made it one of the most architecturally celebrated concert halls in the United States.

How many cities is the Boop! national tour visiting?

The tour is scheduled to visit approximately 50 cities across North America over a 50-week run. The tour opens in Rochester, New York, in fall 2026 and includes confirmed stops in Detroit, Kansas City, Tampa, Fort Worth, Las Vegas, Tempe, and many more.

Can I get group tickets for Boop! at the Kauffman Center?

Group tickets are typically available through the Kauffman Center box office for parties of 10 or more. Contact the venue directly for group pricing, availability, and any special packages for the Boop! engagement.

What dining options are near the Kauffman Center?

The Kauffman Center is located near the Power and Light District in downtown Kansas City, which offers dozens of restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues within walking distance. Kansas City is also renowned for its barbecue, with several celebrated restaurants a short drive from the venue.

Who originally played Betty Boop on Broadway?

Jasmine Amy Rogers originated the role of Betty Boop at the Broadhurst Theatre on Broadway, earning a Tony nomination for Best Leading Actress in a Musical. Her performance was widely praised for capturing Betty's charm and vulnerability. National tour casting will be announced separately.