Theatre Salina
Theatre Salina is proud to present "Celebrating the Human Form," a unique collaborative exhibit featuring members of the Per Aspera Poetry Group and Central Kansas Artists.
The exhibit serves as a special companion to Theatre Salina's Season Opening production of Guys and Dolls and highlights the creative power of visual and literary arts working together.
The collaboration began when members of the Per Aspera Poetry Group were invited to create ekphrastic poetry inspired by artwork produced by Central Kansas Artists. The resulting exhibit pairs original poems with artistic works that celebrate the human form through creative expression.
Community members are invited to a special Meet and Greet with the artists and poets at 6:30 p.m. on Opening Night, Friday, September 4, in the Theatre Salina lobby. The exhibit will remain on display through September 20, providing theatre patrons and visitors an opportunity to experience the artwork and poetry throughout the run of Guys and Dolls.
The Per Aspera Poetry Group grew from the monthly Poetry Open Mic Nights hosted by Ad Astra Books & Coffee House. Meeting on the second Friday of each month starting at 7 p.m., the group provides a welcoming environment where established and emerging poets can share their work, develop their craft, and build community through the written word.
Likewise, the Central Kansas Artists have fostered artistic growth and friendship in Salina for nearly two decades. Participants speak of the joy of learning new skills, the satisfaction of overcoming artistic challenges, and the camaraderie developed through years of creating together. Many describe the artistic process as a meditative experience where focus deepens, distractions fade, and creativity flourishes.
Admission to the Meet and Greet is free, and tickets to Guys and Dolls are not required to attend. However, patrons are encouraged to plan to enjoy both the exhibit and the production, as the artwork and poetry complement the theatre experience.
Tickets for Guys and Dolls can be purchased online here or through the Theatre Salina Box Office. The box office is open Tuesday through Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and can be reached at (785) 827-3033.