KAF is thrilled to collaborate with Interco Charitable Trust and Rio Vista Foundation on an exciting new initiative, PLAY STL, bringing professional St. Louis musicians out of the clubs and into the streets to be enjoyed by the public. PLAY STL celebrates the rich musical heritage of St. Louis by bringing dynamic street performances (a.k.a. busking) to various neighborhoods throughout the region. By showcasing local talent, PlaySTL highlights the St. Louis region’s diverse musical landscape, and breathes life into its communities, fostering a more vibrant and inclusive music scene. Moreover, PlaySTL supports small businesses and Main Streets by attracting foot traffic, helping to boost local commerce and revitalize community hubs.
“St. Louis has a rich musical heritage with incredible musicians of all genres playing nightly in our many nightclubs and music venues, but we want to take them and place them out in the great neighborhoods of our region, where they can be experienced by all with no barriers,” says KAF Executive Director Chris Hansen.
Performers began making appearances in The Ville neighborhood of North St. Louis in late May. Starting in June, St. Louis residents and visitors will begin seeing musicians performing regularly in the evenings in the Central West End, Forest Park and City Foundry. Eventually the program will expand to other areas of both the City and County.
Local musicians wishing to participate in the PLAY STL program can fill out an application for consideration at kranzbergartsfoundation.org/playstl. Coming soon, KAF will launch a platform where local businesses and municipalities will be able to request musicians to perform in their area.
