The Friends of the Conservatory, gala chairman Stephanie D. O'Dear, honorary chairs Farhad and Lynda Azima, and Dean Courtney Crappell are thrilled to announce that Crescendo 2026 will return to the iconic Nelson – Atkins Museum of Art on Saturday, November 14.
This elevated gala experience will be immersive, with artists sprinkled throughout and flowing between the museum spaces all evening long. Conservatory dancers, actors and musicians will present intimate performances specially created for the museum’s majestic halls, with guests not only observing but also becoming a part of the experience from the moment they arrive, during the cocktail hour and throughout dinner.
For patrons who love our amazing concert performances in Helzberg Hall, we have something very special for you. In addition to the fall Crescendo gala, you will receive tickets to the Conservatory's year-end Finale Concert to be scheduled for spring 2027 at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts. This two-for-one, added-value sponsorship allows you the opportunity to experience the Crescendo Gala this fall at the Nelson-Atkins Museum and a concert at the Kauffman Center in the spring. We are delighted to offer both performances with one sponsorship this year.
We look forward to seeing you at The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art for Crescendo 2026!
The º£½ÇÂÛ̳ Conservatory is a school for the performing arts and has been recognized for its artistic excellence and innovation for 120 years. Proceeds from Crescendo 2026 are a part of º£½ÇÂÛ̳'s comprehensive Blue & Bold Campaign and will support the expansion of the Olson Performing Arts Center. For more information how this exciting project will benefit students and the community, please visit or contact Mark Mattison.
