Connecting through Storytelling
The Center Stage Project was born from an understanding that art illuminates the world one story at a time. We believe that art and performance are the emotional home for our community—a brave space dedicated to expanding the theatrical horizon, staging diverse works that resonate with the human spirit.
The Neighbor Impact
We are dedicated to a mission of collaborative impact.
We recognize that our arts community is stronger when we work together. The Center Stage Project exists to produce our series alongside our fellow performing arts organizations, ensuring that our collective efforts better our community as a whole. We are committed to actively showcasing, supporting, and raising awareness for our partners throughout Kearney, building a shared platform that elevates every local stage and helps sustain the entire ecosystem of creative, transformative expression in our city.
Buffalo County's Big IdeaThu, Oct 29
OUR PROJECTS
CUE THE UPDATES
What's next for us?
We are thrilled and honored that The Center Stage Project has been selected alongside nine other inspiring local finalists for Buffalo County’s Big Idea.
It is an incredible opportunity to step onto the stage, share our vision for inclusive community performance, and celebrate the creative energy shaping Central Nebraska.
Come spend the evening hearing ten passionate ideas from across our community and celebrating local innovation and storytelling together.
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When: Thursday, October 29, 2026 at 6:00 PM
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Where: The World Theatre | Downtown Kearney
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Admission: Free to attend, but RSVP is appreciated!
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Behind the Project
As we prep our upcoming projects and dive into the wild world of theater, our social feeds are your front-row seat. Give our pages a follow, drop a like, and share the spotlight to help spread the word!
Auditions
Future auditions for our 2027 projects are in the works—keep those headshots ready!
In the meantime, keep those dancing shoes moving by auditioning for our friends at Kearney Community Theatre, Crane River, and UNK. The stage is waiting!
Neighbors in Art & Creativity
A Standing Ovation for Our Friends at Kearney Community Theatre!
Huge applause to our friends at KCT on wrapping up a fantastic, laughter-packed run of Clue: On Stage!
Next up, big congratulations to the cast and crew beginning rehearsals for the holiday classic A Christmas Carol! We can’t wait to see the magic you bring to the stage this December.
Be sure to grab your tickets and support our local neighbors!
LOCAL VENUE HIGHLIGHT
The Merryman Performing Arts Center
Housed within historic Central Elementary, the Robert M. Merryman Performing Arts Center is one of Kearney’s cultural crown jewels. This beautifully restored theater brings world-class entertainment straight to Central Nebraska—hosting national touring musicians, Broadway tributes, dance productions, and school arts showcases year-round.
From dynamic rock and symphonic tributes to national touring productions and holiday favorites, there is always something extraordinary taking the stage. Take a look at their full calendar, explore season ticket packages, and plan your next night out at the theater!
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Location: 225 W. 22nd St, Kearney, NE
CONTACT Center stage
infocenterstageproject@gmail.com
Kearney Area Foundation Address for Mail/Donations:
2908 W 39th St STE A
Kearney, NE 68845
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Meet The Project's Board
Every great production needs a dedicated crew behind the scenes." Our board is a mix of lifelong performers, community leaders, and "unlikely" arts advocates who believe every neighbor has a story worth telling. We’re the daydreamers, the organizers, and the cheerleaders behind the curtain.