Teen Programs
The Nelson-Atkins offers many ways for teens to get creative, make new friends, and connect with art in new and unexpected ways.
Signature Events
Teen Open Mic Night
Fridays, Nov. 21, Jan. 30, March 27, May 29
Lens 2 | 6:30–8:30 pm
Take center stage at our free bi-monthly open mic! In addition to provided drinks and snacks, teens are invited to enjoy the show and — if they’re interested — share their own talents on stage. We provide an amp, keyboard, and mic, you provide the stoke. We ask that our performers and audience remain teens only in order to provide a safe space.
Teen Fashion Show
Applications now open: Apply here
Fashion Show: Sunday, December 14
Teen designers take the runway to showcase garments they’ve designed and produced, inspired by works in the museum’s collection. Each show is followed by a reception, where guests can pose on the red carpet, chat over refreshments, and meet our fabulous designers.
Shuttlerock: Teen Battle of the Bands
Applications now open: Apply here by September 26
Shuttlerock: Teen Battle of the Bands
October 26
Atkins Auditorium | 2 – 4 pm
A Teen Programs classic, ShuttleRock: Teen Battle of the Bands, returns for another year with musical performances inspired by the art world, the museum, and its collection.
Teen Drop-In Art Making
Thursdays, Sept. 11, Oct. 16, Nov. 13, Jan 15, Feb. 12, March 12, April 9
Classroom 1 | 3:30 – 6:30 pm
Come make art with other likeminded teens! Whether you want to work on your own project or try something new, consider this an open invitation to embrace your creativity. Bring your own supplies or dip into ours — which include a 3D printer, sewing machine, and jewelry supplies.
Upcoming teen events
Teen Discounts
Special Exhibitions
For teen guests, admission to special ticketed exhibitions is just $5. Teen tickets may be purchased when checking out online or in person at the Bloch Lobby Info Desk.
TeenTix
The Nelson-Atkins proudly partners with TeenTix KC, which offers low-cost admission to arts programs in and around Kansas City. Browse the TeenTix calendar and explore the program’s offerings.
Teen Council
The Nelson-Atkins Teen Council is a diverse group of students representing schools from across Kansas City. This is your opportunity to shape museum events, collaborate with other creative people your age, and get a behind-the-scenes look at how a world-class museum operates. Plus, you’ll gain important leadership skills and volunteer experience.
Applications now open: apply here.
Kansas City schools represented by Teen Council members
Allen Village High School
Blue Valley West High School
Hyman Brand Hebrew Academy
LEAD Innovation Studio
Lee’s Summit North High School
North Kansas City High School
Notre Dame de Sion
Park Hill South High School
Paseo Academy of Fine and Performing Arts
Raymore-Peculiar High School
Shawnee Mission East High School
St. Teresa’s Academy
Staley High School
Sumner Academy of Arts and Science
The Barstow School
The Pembroke Hill School
William Chrisman High School
Connect with us
If you’re curious about teen programs at the Nelson-Atkins, reach out via teens@nelson-atkins.org or follow us on social media.