All posts by Kranzberg Arts Foundation

The Sovereign was recently honored by the Landmarks Association of St. Louis with its 2026 Most Enhanced Award. Created in partnership with and operated by Old Rock House, the 1,200-capacity venue in a fully renovated historic building is a welcome addition to the East Grand Center neighborhood. 

The building began its life as a speculative commercial site located within St. Louis’ “Auto Row.” Situated at 3306-3314 Washington Boulevard, the property was designed by Preston Bradshaw, a prominent local architect whose notable work includes the designs of the Chase Park Plaza Hotel, Coronado Hotel, and Mayfair Hotel, as well as numerous retail buildings tailored towards the contemporary auto industry.

Nearly continuously inhabited by a variety of automobile industry adjacent businesses and a printing press for over a century, the building was utilitarian, with very high ceilings and a beautiful 100 foot long terra cotta facade.

This project was designed by the Lawrence Group and completed for Leonard Street Art Partners by Integrate Construction Partners. The project team sought to embrace the natural strengths of the building in its conversion to a live music venue. The large central warehouse space, with its soaring ceiling and mezzanine deck, was perfectly suited to function as a concert hall. The unique facade garage door has similarly been adapted as the venue’s new loading dock, efficiently funneling performers towards the stage as it once directed automobiles towards servicing operations.

The venue has welcomed a diverse array of talent since opening as The Sovereign in 2025 and serving as a main stage for MATI for the past two festivals, hosting national acts and local legends alike. This redevelopment has guaranteed the stability of a long-standing site while preserving its historic and industrial heritage, ensuring it will serve as a local landmark for generations to come.

• Owner: Leonard Street Arts Partners, LLC
• Architect: Lawrence Group
• Contractor: Integrate Construction Partners

With a continued focus on accessibility and inclusivity, the MATI outdoor community block party – connecting its five main stages down Washington Avenue – will be free and bigger than ever in 2026. From 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, July 17 and 18, MATI is activating Grand Center Arts District with live music (including DJ Spinderella), a performance art stage, a roller skating rink, pop-up fashion shows, mural and art exhibits, poetry, local vendors, tastes of St. Louis’ favorite culinary dishes and incentives to visit Midtown’s many bars, restaurants and retailers.

A live music stage at Washington and N Theresa Avenue will feature energetic DJ sets by DJ Spinderella (Salt-N-Pepa), Natasha Diggs, and Nightchaser Presents; and performances by Kendrick Smith Quartet, Pernikoff Brothers, Manos Panamerica, and Paint Louis presents R.O.T.N. 

At Washington and N Leonard Avenue, a performance art stage will feature theatrical moments that tell the story of St. Louis as a catalyst city where American popular music is continuously invented, exported, and reimagined. Programming includes the introduction of a new musical adaptation of Betsey Brown, the Ntazoke Shange-penned coming-of-age story set in 1957 St. Louis. 

The stage will also feature circus acrobatics and performances by Circus Harmony.

GENT will present short-format fashion shows, transforming the street into a live runway experience. Timed between major main stage performances, these shows will merge fashion, music, and culture in a dynamic, street-level activation. Festival attendees can expect themes around “archive sound” (vintage band and festival wear, developed in partnership with Chunky’s) and “global kits” (inspired by global soccer culture, featuring upcycled jerseys transformed into contemporary looks).

A centerpiece of the festival footprint, a pop-up roller skating rink presented by River City Outdoors will allow attendees to groove and glide on Washington Avenue to a roster of St. Louis’ top DJs, curated by G.Wiz. 

Additional MATI block party partners include Frizz Fest, Poetry In Motion, Free4All, The Walls Off Washington, Cinema St. Louis, Audacy, WSIE and Metro Theater.

 

Visual Art Activations

Surrounded by The Walls off Washington mural walk (open to attendees), families can immerse themselves in both music and art. Canvas for Kids will allow attendees of all ages to participate in the creation of large-scale collaborative murals, turning blank canvas into colorful expressions throughout the weekend. Paint Louis is also bringing back Paint Littles, giving kids a hands-on experience with graffiti.

Also among MATI’s featured visual activations is the ongoing evolution of I Still Love Her, the celebrated mural collaboration by artists BRKLYN and Deonne, located in the KAF Art Yard (3318 Washington). Working alongside curator Kris Blackmon, the artists will continue to activate and expand the project during festival hours, offering attendees an opportunity to witness the living nature of public art while engaging with a work that honors the legacy, influence and cultural impact of women in hip-hop. 

Festivalgoers will also have the opportunity to experience Elroy Vision at Legends’ Gallery (3318 Washington), a vibrant exhibition by internationally acclaimed artist Kenny Scharf – known for his iconic visual language, energetic forms and lasting influence on contemporary art and street culture.

Further down Washington Avenue, Double Bloom will be impossible to miss. The large, immersive, 10 ft by 17 ft walk in domes installation by Adrienne Outlaw encourages participation – blending sculpture, environment, and reflection, offering a contemplative space amid the festival’s energy. 

 

Frizzy By Nature’s Blooming Business Market

In partnership with Frizz Fest – Frizzy By Nature’s Blooming Business Market will line Washington Avenue with local small businesses and artisans, featuring handcrafted jewelry, stunning art, unique fashion, beauty essentials, community resources, delicious food, and so much more. Guests will enjoy a dynamic and lively shopping experience, running Friday and Saturday (July 17-18).

Expected market vendors include LacyJean Mobile Cigar Lounge, Oil Bar by Ryze, MADE MOBB, Sarah Lady’s Art, The Good Life Candle Co, Cameogirldesigns, Invision Your Empire, USHA.NGA, With Love Skincare, routed by STL Bucket List, 13th and Canna, Taylor Marrie, Natural Ti’s Products, The Woke Brand, Goddistry, J.R Candle Company, Underground Jewels, Diversity Gallery, and Sapphire Farms and Company.

Attendees can enjoy dishes from food trucks Cajun Seduction, FUFU n’ Sauce, G Burrito, Pure Catering, and Steve’s Hot Dogs; and local bites from Yummy Sweetcakes, Dulce Pops, The Fattened Caf, Sugarfire Smokehouse, Jasmine Brooks, Chef Bailey & Co, Dooney’s, and Straight Down 55 Eats.

Bring the whole family and experience the best the MATI community has to offer!

Photo Credit: Tyler Small

Director of Administration and Contracts Ann McKeal celebrates her 10th anniversary with KAF this month! She first got to know Executive Director Chris Hansen through visits to Grand Center for live music, photography, and a little wine culture. “His vision and genuine enthusiasm were contagious, as was the Kranzberg family’s commitment to the neighborhood. I knew I wanted to be part of an organization that invests in artists, celebrates creativity, and helps shape the future of our community,” she says. 

McKeal  graduated from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville with a degree in Mass Communications with an emphasis in Marketing and Advertising, along with minors in Speech Communication and Business Management.

 

What is your favorite part of your job at KAF?

Enjoying the fruits of our labor, of course! We’re surrounded by creativity every day, and I genuinely love working alongside such a talented and passionate team. With so many venues and programs, there’s always a performance or exhibition to discover. I love experiencing our artists’ work, running into them at Blueprint Coffee, and vibing with them at Sophie’s Artist Lounge. When I need a moment of zen, I pop upstairs to the .ZACK rooftop garden. Every day is a reminder of the vibrant community we’re helping to build.

 

How do you feel your role directly supports the KAF mission?

As Director of Administration and Contracts, I work behind the scenes, collaborating closely with every department across the Foundation. My role provides the structure, support, and resources that keep things running smoothly so our teams can focus on creating extraordinary experiences for artists and audiences. While much of my work is confidential, it’s incredibly rewarding to know it helps make those experiences possible.

 

What do you love most about the St. Louis arts community?

I love how connected our arts community is. Artists, performers, patrons, and arts organizations aren’t separate groups here – they’re neighbors, collaborators, and friends. There’s a genuine spirit of support and collaboration that allows creativity to flourish. St. Louis may not be the largest arts market in the country (yet), but its passion, authenticity, and sense of community make it truly special.

 

What do you personally do (outside of work) to engage in the arts?

Live music is at the top of the list, from my brother riffing on his guitar to local shows, the SLSO, or a favorite national act. You better believe I’m always up for a karaoke night. I love cheering on our teams – sports are their own kind of performance art, right? Since my husband is a chef, I have a deep appreciation for the culinary arts, from exploring our city’s incredible restaurant scene to blind wine tastings with friends. When I need to recharge, you’ll find me at museums, traveling, antiquing, or discussing my latest read with my book club. Shakespeare in the Park and the Missouri Botanical Garden are favorites because they beautifully combine nature, art, music, and community. That’s one of the things I love most about St. Louis – creativity shows up everywhere. It’s all art to me!

 

Who are some of your favorite St. Louis artists/musicians/creators that people should check out?

St. Louis is overflowing with talented artists, and many of them have become dear friends over the years. The truth is, there are far too many to name, but I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the incomparable Kim Massie and Tai Davis, whose spirit, impact, and artistry continue to shape our community. Their legacies live on through the countless people they inspired. Our arts community thrives when people show up: buy the ticket, visit the gallery, share an artist’s work, and tell someone about a performance you loved. Supporting artists doesn’t always require a grand gesture, sometimes it simply means being present. KAF helps make it easy by sharing upcoming events through our newsletters and website, so you can always find your next moment of inspiration.

MATI (Music at the Intersection) returns for its sixth year next month, July 17-19. The festival is set to bring world-class music to Grand Center Arts District, including Wyclef Jean, Killer Mike, Zapp, PJ Morton, Big Freedia, Destin Conrad, LA LOM, Keyon Harrold, Andra Day, Rapsody and dozens more. However, great music is just the beginning. MATI also features a thought leadership conference, multiple partner events and a free, multi-stage community block party. 

Early in the day on Friday and Saturday, before the music starts, MATI annually welcomes artists, creatives and entrepreneurs together to discuss Music, Art, Thought and Innovation. The MATI Conference provides free (with RSVP) panels, keynote discussions and networking opportunities, further putting into action the festival’s commitment to nurture and grow St Louis’ music and arts economy. 

2026’s Conference will culminate with back to back discussions by hip-hop legends. On Saturday, July 18 at 2:45 p.m., St. Louis natives Murphy Lee and Kyjuan of the St. Lunatics will speak with Eric “Remrod” Mayes about “From The Lou To The World: Creativity, Brotherhood, and Building A Movement.”  

Immediately following, at 4:00 p.m., New Orleans rappers Mannie Fresh and Juvenile bring their popular Still 400 podcast to St. Louis for a live audience recording. Every episode brings real conversations, wild moments, hot takes and legends (special guest tba) showing up to “talk their talk.” Post-show, the co-hosts and guest(s) will participate in an audience Q&A 

There are 11 conference sessions, across two days, to choose from. Beginning today, all events are open for RSVP at www.MATIstl.org/conference. RSVPs are required, and sessions are expected to reach capacity. Attendance is free, but there is a small MetroTix processing charge per session RSVP. 

Also just announced, MATI is expanding beyond its three days and five main stages with even more unique partner and community events – some ticketed and some completely free. 

On Thursday, 8x Grammy winning singer, songwriter and composer Jon Batiste kicks off MATI with a special concert at The Fabulous Fox (separate ticket).

On Friday, MATI x Delux present: Mannie Fresh. The genre-defining producer, artist and entertainer is taking over The Key on Friday night for a special DJ set (separate ticket or MATI Delux weekend pass).

On Saturday, Latinx Arts Network is transforming The Key into a vibrant celebration of Latin music, culture and community, inspired by the spirit of Latin American barrios. Meanwhile, at The Grandel Theatre, MATI is uniting hometown legends for a can’t miss evening of powerful soul. With music direction by Shedrick Mitchell, The Soul of St. Louis features the talents of Denise Thimes, Brian Owens, The Bosman Twins, Marquise Knox, Anita Jackson, Cheryl Brown, Adrienne Felton King and Tasha B. Both events are free.

On Sunday, Brothers Lazaroff are debuting their new album, Trying to Make It Home, with an album release brunch at Jazz St. Louis (separate ticket required). Attendees can order from the Jazz St. Louis brunch menu throughout the show. 

“MATI is a celebration of St. Louis and we’re thrilled to have so many great community organizations on our production team,” said Chris Hansen, executive director of Kranzberg Arts Foundation. “Delux Magazine and Latins Arts Network are taking over The Key with two completely different and unique nights of music and dance. Laz Jazz is programming the Jazz St. Louis stage all weekend. Plus, Brother Lazaroff is debuting their new album there on Sunday. Incredibly special, under the direction of Shedrick Mitchell, The Grandel is turning into a complete powerhouse of St. Louis soul on Saturday night. Between the MATI main stages, the partner events and the block party, each fan can curate a festival schedule that’s truly their own.”

More information on MATI partner events is available at www.MATIstl.org.

The Landmarks Association of St. Louis recently honored The Key Burger Bar & Boogie in its 2026 Most Enhanced Awards recognizing projects that exemplify excellence in preservation. Winners are selected based on the architectural and cultural importance of the building, the complexity of the restoration, the project’s inspirational value, and its impact on the surrounding community.

The Key’s two-building complex, consisting of a market building and a hardware store, were rescued from demolition by the Kranzberg Arts Foundation through an agreement with Saint Louis University and with support from the Landmarks Association of St. Louis and have been restored and returned to active use.

Built in 1887, the buildings are among the few remaining historical structures in the area, and adjacent to the former and historic Mill Creek neighborhood, providing a rare glimpse into St. Louis’ past and showcasing the enduring architectural beauty of a previous century. 

The market building consists of a large central hall with ornate wood and steel trusses topped by a clerestory. The rehabilitation included extensive tuckpointing, removal of old exterior paint, repair and replacement of windows, and new custom hardwood clerestory sashes.

The adjacent hardware store is a two-story building with a basement and former apartments on the second floor. The ground floor was renovated with restored stamped tin ceilings, repaired wood floors, and new lighting designed to highlight the historic ceiling pattern. Masonry repairs, brick cleaning, new second-floor windows, and reconstructed storefront openings completed the exterior work.

The Key Burger Bar & Boogie juxtaposes the historic architecture of these century-old buildings with contemporary design. The former market has been adapted into a vibrant music hall, The Boogie, where modern linear elements and angled surfaces complement the existing trusses and historic character. The restored clerestory floods the space with daylight and becomes a dramatic feature during evening performances.

The design continues into the adjoining Burger Bar, where the original stamped tin ceiling remains a focal point. Lighting and utilities were carefully organized around the perimeter to showcase the building’s historic fabric.

Together, the music venue, restaurant, and bar create a new cultural destination that draws both neighborhood residents and concertgoers while celebrating the history and continued evolution of Midtown.

“Landmarks put out the rallying cry to energize the community around preserving these buildings that are an important part of St. Louis history and the history of the Mill Creek Valley neighborhood, and the Foundation saw it as an exciting opportunity to continue growing a thriving arts district and bring new community benefits and amenities to the broader Midtown area,” says Chris Hansen, Executive Director of the Kranzberg Arts Foundation. “We are thrilled to receive this honor for a project that so perfectly exemplifies KAF’s mission.”

MATI is popping up with Grammy-winning soul singer, songwriter and producer PJ Morton at Sophie’s Artist Lounge with WFUN-FM 96.3 R&B. On Friday, June 12 from 5-8 p.m., meet and greet Morton; hear tracks from his new double album, Saturday Night, Sunday Morning, which officially comes out on June 19; and purchase special edition merchandise including vinyl, CDs and T-shirts. Then, during MATI festival weekend, see him perform live on Sunday, July 19 at The Fabulous Fox between Wyclef Jean and Keyon Harrold. MATI has partnered with WFUN 96.3 throughout the month of June for Black Music Month.

Based in New Orleans, PJ Morton is a 6x Grammy winner and 22x nominee, earning recognition from BET, Soul Train and NAACP Image Awards while selling out historic venues like the Apollo Theater and stages around the world. On top of running his own label, Morton Records, and serving as the band Maroon 5’s full-time keyboardist for 15 years, he has collaborated with Stevie Wonder, Erykah Badu, Jon Batiste, Nas, Lil Wayne, JoJo, Jill Scott and many others. 

Morton is the first Black composer to write an original song for a Disney attraction, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. His debut memoir, Saturday Night, Sunday Morning, reflects on a trailblazing path straddling music and faith, race and culture, expression and identity. He has also ventured into film and television, writing the closing song for Regina King’s Netflix film Shirley and producing music for Dr. Seuss’s Red Fish, Blue Fish on Netflix. Stevie Wonder, Dr. John, The Neville Brothers, The Meters and Willie Nelson have all made classic records in Morton’s own Studio in the Country, the historic 26-acre complex in Bogalusa, Louisiana. Morton is championing the next generation through “A PJ Morton Production.”

Fans can RSVP for the Meet and Greet event via Morton’s website.

As reported by Sauce Magazine, Nick Bognar, the James Beard-nominated chef behind lauded local eateries Indo, Sado and Pavilion is set to open his fourth restaurant concept, Khao Soi Cowboy, in spring 2027 in the former TURN space at KAF-owned .ZACK. Located at 3224 Locust St. in Midtown, the restaurant and bar will focus on “purposefully inauthentic” Northern Thai and Southeast Asian cuisine in a high-energy, dive-bar style atmosphere, offering all-day lunch and dinner service as well as late-night dining and tiki-inspired cocktails.

The restaurant’s namesake, Khao Soi, is a Northern Thai curry noodle soup that was a staple of Bognar’s childhood, cooked by his grandmother. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he offered the soup to-go at Indo, inspiring the demand for a new restaurant with the dish as its focus.

“I always wanted to open a more casual concept,” Bognar told Sauce. “We’ve always been playful and creative with our restaurants, but I really want people to experience the loud Southeast Asian culture and the boldness of our food, drinks, decor, music, service and overall vibes at Khao Soi Cowboy.”

The concept is a welcome addition to the neighborhood and to .ZACK following the closing of David Kirkland’s TURN in March 2026 after nine successful years in the space. 

“We couldn’t be more excited to welcome Nick and Khao Soi Cowboy to .ZACK and provide yet another reason for people to come to Midtown and explore the area,” said KAF Executive Director Chris Hansen. 

The Big Top has made its return to Grand Center – the iconic red and white tent is back up on Washington Ave. and ready for its 2026 debut as Circus Flora kicks off next week. A beloved summer tradition in St. Louis, Circus Flora celebrates its 40th anniversary season with an all-new show, Flying High, running June 4-21. Once again, Circus Flora is set to dazzle audiences of all ages with its unique combination of world-class circus performers, exceptional storytelling, and live original music. 

In Flying High Circus Flora transforms an ordinary high school into an extraordinary academy of wonder. Step into halls and classrooms filled with a mix of world-class acrobats, aerialists, jugglers, and class clowns – along with an unforgettable faculty whose astonishing skills turn every moment into a spectacular surprise. Plus, for the first time in Circus Flora’s 40-year history, this year’s show will feature a human cannonball!

“Circus Flora has always been about what happens when artists and audiences come together—when a room holds its breath, then erupts in laughter or applause. After 40 years in St. Louis, seeing generations of families return summer after summer is deeply moving. This anniversary season celebrates that shared history and the simple, powerful joy of experiencing live performance together,” says Artistic and Executive Director Jack Marsh.

Tickets to Circus Flora’s Flying High are on sale now through all MetroTix outlets and by phone at 314-534-1111. Tickets can also be purchased at the Fabulous Fox Theater Box Office, located at 531 North Grand Blvd. 

Following Circus Flora’s run, The Big Top will transform to a main stage venue for MATI 2026 on Friday, July 17 and Saturday, July 18. MATI weekend features more than 100 national, regional and St. Louis-based performances and presentations. With five main stages, including The Big Top, The Fabulous Fox Theatre (new), The Sovereign, Jazz St. Louis, and Sophie’s Artist Lounge, MATI is taking full advantage of Grand Center Arts District’s world-class music and art infrastructure to deliver a fully walkable indoor-outdoor summer festival experience.

July 17-19 MATI weekend passes start at $109 (all fees included) and are on sale at www.MATIstl.org or directly at www.MetroTix.com (or by phone 314-534-1111). MATI single day passes are also available, starting at $50 for Friday, $50 for Saturday and $45+ for Sunday.

Unlike traditional bars and restaurants, each of KAF’s venues, including The Key Burger Bar & Boogie, The Dark Room and Sophie’s Artist Lounge are part of a greater ecosystem that provides the support and infrastructure for the arts to thrive in St. Louis. Whenever you enjoy a craft cocktail or delicious bite at these spots, your hard-earned money is flowing back into that ecosystem to directly support local artists. 

This week, guests will see the debut of signature MATI-inspired cocktail offerings at our venues, along with the introduction of the “MATI Melt” at The Key. A specialty menu item designed to celebrate the festival’s spirit, creativity, and community, the MATI Melt consists of two beef patties, American cheese, Swiss cheese, garlic mayo, bacon and onion jam. Add fries and a fountain drink for just $5!

Sip on a signature “MATI-licious” cocktail consisting of vodka, peach Schnapps, strawberry syrup lemon juice, and simple syrup, or opt for our alcohol-free MATI-licious mocktail with peach Redbull, strawberry syrup, lemon juice, and simple syrup. These additions are intended to extend the MATI experience beyond the festival grounds and into our everyday venue programming.

As part of the rollout, KAF is also expanding partnerships and sponsorship collaborations with brands including Luxco, Bacardi, and Urban Chestnut to enhance the guest experience and strengthen support for arts programming across Midtown. Every food and beverage purchase made at our venues helps fund artists, programming, and the continued growth of KAF’s creative community.

Sophie’s Artist Lounge continues to expand its music and hospitality programming with a growing lineup of both Happy Hour and late night experiences curated by a mix of established residents and emerging voices within the St. Louis creative community. While longtime favorites remain at the core of the venue’s identity, guests can also expect new collaborations, rotating selectors, and genre driven concepts that continue to push the atmosphere forward while staying rooted in community and culture.

The recent rollout of Double Down Wednesdays marks a deeper investment into all night programming, pairing early evening cocktail and dining experiences with thoughtfully curated DJ sets that transition seamlessly into late night energy. Through partnerships with collectives like A Turn At The Table and collaborations with local artists, organizations, and creatives, Sophie’s continues to build a platform that highlights individuality, connection, and the evolution of St. Louis music culture.

Alongside the programming expansion, guests can also expect updated seasonal cocktail offerings, curated food partnerships, and additional collaborations designed to enhance the overall experience. Every night at Sophie’s is intended to feel immersive, intentional, and community driven, where music, art, food, and hospitality all work together to support the broader creative ecosystem surrounding the venue.

Honora Kinsella joined KAF in May 2025 as General Manager of The Key ahead of its grand opening in October 2025. Honora had previously worked with KAF team members as an employee of concert promoter Jamo Presents, hosting events at The Big Top and Central Stage and then taking on a larger  role assisting with artist hospitality and transportation during MATI 2022. She loved the people she met and worked with and knew that if she were ever presented with an opportunity to join the KAF team long term, she would jump at the chance. Honora oversees all daily operations at The Key and never tires of welcoming guests to KAFs newest venue and first full-service restaurant.

 

What is your favorite part of your job at KAF?

I love curating community-based experiences, cultivating reoccurring dance series, and working with bands to bring them to the Boogie stage.

 

How do you feel your role directly supports the KAF mission?

I feel my role directly supports the growth of the Midtown neighborhood and brings opportunities to different dance and music communities.

 

What do you love most about the St. Louis arts community?

I love being able to help foster a space for folks in the arts community to bring their ideas and passions to life. Being able to curate these experiences and work with different promoters and instructors to give them a home to share their art brings me a lot of joy.

 

What do you personally do (outside of work) to engage in the arts?

When I’m not working at KAF, I am home with my animals, working on my house or hanging out with friends. I also fire perform and stilt walk with my performance group, Ignited Arts Entertainment, and work with touring artists coming through St. Louis and assist with their VIP meet and greets and merch packages.

 

Who are some of your favorite St. Louis artists/musicians/creators that people should check out?

Some of my favorite local musicians are One Way Traffic, Mighty Pines, DJ JenZ, DJ Dienda, and Scooby Blue.