Illuminating the Folly

A Behind-the-Scenes Look at Light, Design, and Legacy

As Kansas City’s oldest theater, the Folly has stood as a testament to Kansas City’s rich performing arts history. From its origins in the city’s bustling theater district to its near demolition and subsequent renovations, the Folly’s story is one of resilience, visionary design, and community-driven philanthropy. Once home to vaudeville and burlesque, the Folly now hosts world-class performances, including the Alvin Ailey dancers and Heartland Men’s Chorus, continuing its legacy as a vibrant cultural landmark.

Join the architects and designers behind the Folly’s most recent renovation, along with the theater’s executive director, for an immersive tour to uncover the rich history and stunning design that makes the Folly a masterpiece. Discover the theater’s journey through time, from its original electric marquee installed in 1900, to its iconic grand staircases and restored gold leaf details.

Day Eight - April 29

Apr 29, 2025 | 5:00-7:00pm

5:00pm | Check-in
5:30pm | Program
Light Snacks and Drink Ticket Provided

Folly Theater
300 W 12th St
Kansas City, MO 64105
United States

$22 + fees online | $30 at door

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Presenters

Rick Truman

Executive Director Folly Theater

Rick Truman joined the Folly Theater as Executive Director in January 2022 and was named President and CEO in June 2024. He and his staff present 20+ Jazz, Americana, and Kids’ Series performances each year and host 80+ more events presented by rental clients, making the Folly a robust home for diverse entertainment. In addition to leading daily operations, Rick serves as Artistic Director of the theater’s Jazz and Americana Series, plus special engagements including the Folly Pride Concert and Folly Frolic. Prior to joining the Folly, Rick served as Managing Director of Quality Hill Playhouse, leading financial and administrative operations, for over 18 years. He holds a Master in Public Administration from the Bloch School of Business and Public Administration at UMKC and a Bachelor of Fine Arts with an emphasis in acting and directing from Avila University. In addition to his experience in nonprofit arts management, Rick has performed or stage directed at many Kansas City theaters, including Kansas City Rep, Musical Theater Heritage, Spinning Tree Theatre, Coterie Theatre, Unicorn Theatre, and Civic Opera Theater.

Andrea Brundis, NCIDQ

PGAV Practice Leader

Andrea Brundis is an NCIDQ certified interior designer and leader of PGAV’s interior design practice. Andrea and her team of designers work across diverse project types to plan and design compelling environments that are mission-focused, brand-centric, and welcoming, inclusive, and accessible. Andrea’s work includes the renovation, preservation, modernization and adaptive reuse of historic properties and the design of performing arts theaters, hotels, conference centers, restaurants, cafes, and other hospitality venues, among other project types. Notable projects include the Folly Theater renovation, Lenexa Civic Center, UMKC Bloch Heritage Hall renovation, Olathe Police Headquarters, Overland Park Sykes Lady Golf Clubhouse, Kansas Docking State Office Building, K-State Hale Library Renovation, and One East Bar and Kitchen at the Westin Kansas City at Crown Center. Andrea’s ability to see the big picture at each step of the design process is key to her success as an interior designer. She excels at collaborating with her team members while focusing on the details—which is instrumental in establishing a design direction that properly integrates interior architecture, lighting, finishes, furniture, and equipment.

Jennifer Goeke, RA

PGAV Practice Leader

Jennifer Goeke is a registered architect with 31 years of experience and a PGAV Practice Leader. Jennifer heads integrated teams collaborating on diverse project types to create extraordinary places for recreation, working, learning, and connecting. Notable projects include the Folly Theater renovation, Lenexa Civic Center, Olathe Police Headquarters, Overland Park Farmers’ Market, Kansas Docking State Office Building, Overland Park Sykes Lady Golf Clubhouse, K-State Hale Library Renovation, and Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium. She has specialized expertise in the management of complex projects, including the renovation, preservation, modernization, and adaptive reuse of historic properties and other historically significant buildings. Her compassion for her clients and dedication to architectural design has been central to the success of many PGAV projects.