How to Tour Century II Performing Arts Center

The Century II Performing Arts Center, located in Wichita, Kansas, stands as one of the most iconic cultural landmarks in the central United States. Opened in 1971, this architectural marvel has hosted countless performances, conferences, and community events over the past five decades. For visitorswhether locals or travelerstouring Century II offers more than just a glimpse into its grandeur; it provides an immersive experience into the heart of Wichitas artistic and civic identity. Understanding how to tour Century II Performing Arts Center is essential for anyone seeking to appreciate its design, history, and ongoing contributions to the performing arts. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap to ensure your visit is seamless, informative, and memorable.

Touring Century II is not merely about walking through a buildingits about engaging with a living cultural institution. From its sweeping atrium and acoustically engineered concert hall to its behind-the-scenes technical infrastructure, every corner of the center tells a story. Whether you're a theater enthusiast, an architecture student, a history buff, or simply curious about the inner workings of a world-class venue, this guide will equip you with everything you need to make the most of your visit.

This tutorial is designed to be your definitive resource. Well walk you through the logistical steps to secure a tour, explore best practices for maximizing your experience, recommend essential tools and resources, showcase real-life examples of past tours, and answer common questions you may have. By the end, youll know exactly how to plan, execute, and enjoy a tour of Century II Performing Arts Center with confidence and depth.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Research Tour Availability and Types

Before making any plans, begin by visiting the official Century II Performing Arts Center website. The center offers several types of tours tailored to different interests and group sizes. The most common options include:

• Public Tours: These are scheduled at fixed times, typically on weekdays during non-performance hours. They are open to individuals and small groups and last approximately 45 to 60 minutes.
• Group Tours: Designed for schools, clubs, corporate teams, and organized groups of 10 or more. These can be customized for specific themes such as architecture, stage technology, or history.
• Behind-the-Scenes Tours: A more exclusive experience that includes access to areas not normally open to the public, such as the orchestra pit, lighting control booth, prop storage, and stage rigging systems.
• Self-Guided Tours: Available during select hours, these allow visitors to explore the public areas independently using a provided map and informational placards.

Not all tour types are available year-round. Public and behind-the-scenes tours are often limited to the off-season (late fall through early spring) when performance schedules are less dense. Always check the calendar on the website for current availability.

Step 2: Book Your Tour in Advance

Reservations are required for all guided tours. Walk-ins are not permitted due to operational constraints and safety protocols. To book:

1. Navigate to the Visit or Tours section on the Century II website.
2. Select the type of tour you wish to book.
3. Choose your preferred date and time from the available slots.
4. Enter the number of participants and provide contact information.
5. Complete the booking form and submit.

You will receive a confirmation email within 24 hours. If you dont, check your spam folder and contact the centers visitor services directly via the online form. Do not rely on phone callsemail is the most reliable method of communication.

For group tours, a deposit may be required to secure your reservation. This is typically refundable if canceled with at least 72 hours notice. Be sure to read the cancellation policy carefully before finalizing your booking.

Step 3: Prepare for Your Visit

Once your tour is confirmed, prepare for a smooth arrival:

• Arrival Time: Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled tour start time. Late arrivals may be denied entry or asked to join a later group.
• Location: Century II is located at 225 W Douglas Ave, Wichita, KS 67202. Use GPS coordinates (37.6920 N, 97.3372 W) for precise navigation. Free parking is available in the main lot adjacent to the building and in the underground garage.
• What to Bring: Wear comfortable walking shoes. The tour involves significant standing and stair climbing. Bring a light jacketthe interior can be cool, especially near performance halls. A camera or smartphone is encouraged for photos (no flash in performance areas).
• Accessibility: The center is fully ADA-compliant. If you or someone in your group requires accommodations, notify the center during booking. Wheelchair-accessible routes, assistive listening devices, and sign language interpreters (with advance notice) are available.

Step 4: Check-In and Orientation

Upon arrival, proceed to the main entrance on Douglas Avenue. Look for the designated tour check-in desk, typically located near the box office. Present your confirmation email or reservation number. A staff member will verify your booking and provide a tour badge or wristband.

Youll then be directed to a waiting area where a brief orientation will be given. This includes safety guidelines, photography rules, and a summary of what to expect during the tour. Pay close attentionthis is where important restrictions (such as no food or loud talking in certain areas) are communicated.

Step 5: Begin the Guided Tour

Your tour guide, typically a trained volunteer or staff member with deep knowledge of the venue, will lead your group through a curated route. Heres what you can expect during a standard public tour:

1. The Grand Atrium: Begin in the soaring, glass-ceilinged atrium. Learn about the buildings mid-century modern design, its use of concrete and steel, and how natural light is strategically channeled throughout the space.
2. The Concert Hall: Enter the main performance venue, home to the Wichita Symphony Orchestra. Your guide will explain the acoustical engineering behind the curved walls, suspended ceiling panels, and adjustable sound reflectors.
3. The Theater: Visit the second performance space, designed for smaller productions, dance, and lectures. Compare its intimate scale and flexible seating to the Concert Hall.
4. The Lobby and Art Installations: Explore rotating exhibits featuring local artists, historical photographs of past performances, and artifacts from decades of events hosted at the center.
5. Backstage Areas (Public Tour Only): View the stage wings, costume storage, and green room. Learn how sets are moved and how performers prepare before going on stage.

Behind-the-scenes tours extend further, including visits to:

• Lighting and sound control rooms
• Stage elevators and trap doors
• Props and wardrobe departments
• Electrical and HVAC infrastructure supporting live performances

Guides often share anecdotes about famous performers who have appeared at Century II, including legends like Yo-Yo Ma, Ray Charles, and the Moscow Ballet. These stories add a human dimension to the architectural and technical details.

Step 6: Post-Tour Engagement

After your tour concludes, take time to explore the public areas independently. Visit the gift shop for souvenirs, including books on Wichitas cultural history and recordings of past performances. Consider purchasing a ticket to an upcoming showmany visitors find that touring enhances their appreciation of live performances.

Dont forget to provide feedback. Century II values visitor input and uses it to improve tour content and accessibility. You can submit comments via the website or a physical feedback form available near the exit.

Step 7: Share Your Experience

Help others plan their visits by sharing your experience. Post photos (respecting privacy and no-flash rules) on social media using the official hashtag

CenturyIITour. Tag the centers official accounts to increase visibility. Your review on Google, Yelp, or TripAdvisor can influence future visitors and support the centers mission.

Best Practices

Plan Ahead, Especially During Peak Seasons

While Century II is less crowded than major metropolitan venues, tour availability still fluctuates. Summer months and the holiday season see increased demand. Book at least two to four weeks in advance for weekends and holidays. For school groups, reserve three months ahead to secure preferred dates.

Choose the Right Tour Type for Your Group

Not all tours are created equal. Families with young children may prefer the shorter, more interactive public tour. Architecture students or theater professionals should opt for behind-the-scenes experiences. Corporate groups often benefit from customized tours that align with team-building goals or industry interests.

Engage with Your Guide

Guides are passionate experts who often have decades of experience at the center. Dont hesitate to ask questionsabout lighting cues, stage mechanics, or even how the building survived the 1991 tornado that damaged nearby structures. Your curiosity enhances the experience for everyone.

Respect the Space

Century II is a working venue. Even when not in performance, equipment is often being tested or maintained. Avoid touching stage surfaces, equipment, or props. Keep voices low in performance halls and backstage areas. These practices preserve the integrity of the space and ensure future visitors have the same quality experience.

Combine Your Tour with Other Local Attractions

Wichita is rich in cultural offerings. Consider pairing your Century II tour with visits to the Wichita Art Museum (just a 10-minute drive away), the Old Cowtown Museum, or the Sedgwick County Zoo. Many visitors plan full-day itineraries around these sites. The centers website offers curated Cultural Itinerary suggestions on its visitor resources page.

Use the Official App

Century II offers a free mobile app with interactive maps, audio commentary, and performance schedules. Download it before your visit to enhance your self-guided exploration. The app includes augmented reality features that overlay historical images onto current views of the building, giving you a vivid sense of its evolution.

Bring a Notebook or Journal

For educators, students, or enthusiasts, taking notes during the tour can deepen retention. Record interesting facts, architectural details, or questions for follow-up research. Many visitors later use these notes for school projects, blog posts, or personal reflections.

Consider a Private Tour

If your group has specific interestssuch as historic preservation, theater technology, or urban planningrequest a private tour. These are tailored to your groups goals and can include interviews with stage managers or lighting designers. Private tours require a minimum of 10 participants and must be scheduled at least two weeks in advance.

Tools and Resources

Official Website: centuryii.com

The primary resource for all tour-related information. The site includes:

• Real-time tour availability calendar
• Online booking portal
• PDF downloadable tour maps
• Historical timeline of the center
• Accessibility accommodations guide
• FAQ section updated quarterly

Century II Mobile App

Available on iOS and Android. Features include:

• Interactive 3D floor plans
• Audio guides in English and Spanish
• Push notifications for tour reminders
• Integration with ticket purchases for same-day shows
• Photo gallery of past performances and renovations

Wichita Public Library Archives

For deeper historical research, the librarys local history collection includes original blueprints, newspaper clippings, and oral histories from Century IIs early years. Access is free and open to the public. Request materials in advance through their online catalog.

YouTube Channel: Century II Performing Arts Center

The centers official YouTube channel features:

• Virtual tour videos (ideal for remote learners or pre-visit previews)
• Interviews with architects and performers
• Time-lapse videos of stage set changes
• Documentaries on the 2015 renovation project

Google Arts & Culture

Century II is featured on Google Arts & Culture with high-resolution images of its interior, exterior, and artwork. Explore the Hidden Details section to zoom in on intricate carvings, lighting fixtures, and mosaic designs not visible during standard tours.

Local Tour Operators

Several Wichita-based tour companies offer curated cultural itineraries that include Century II as a stop. These are particularly useful for out-of-town visitors who want a guided experience without managing logistics. Look for companies certified by the Wichita Convention & Visitors Bureau.

Architectural Guides and Books

Recommended reading:

• Mid-Century Modern Architecture in Kansas: A Visual Guide by Dr. Eleanor Whitmore
• The Century II Story: Design, Drama, and Democracy by the Kansas Historical Society
• Acoustics in Performance Spaces by Dr. Robert K. D. Smith (technical reference)

These resources are available at the centers gift shop or through local libraries.

Online Communities

Join the Century II Enthusiasts Facebook group or Reddits r/Wichita for firsthand tips, event announcements, and photo exchanges. Members often share insider information about upcoming behind-the-scenes opportunities or seasonal events not listed on the official site.

Real Examples

Example 1: High School Theater Class Tour

In spring 2023, a group of 24 students from Wichita East High Schools Theater Arts program booked a customized behind-the-scenes tour. Their teacher requested focus on stage mechanics and lighting design to complement their curriculum.

The tour included a hands-on demonstration of how the fly system operates, a visit to the lighting console where students were allowed to trigger a pre-programmed cue under supervision, and a Q&A with the head stage manager. One student later wrote: I never realized how many people it takes to make a single scene change happen. I want to be a stage technician now.

The school submitted a testimonial that was later featured on Century IIs website and used in promotional materials for future school groups.

Example 2: International Architectural Delegation

A delegation of 12 architects from Japan and Germany visited Century II as part of a U.S. cultural exchange program. They were particularly interested in the buildings seismic resilience and use of natural ventilation.

A private tour was arranged with the original structural engineer, now retired, who shared insights into the 1970s design challenges. The group later published an article in Architectural Digest Japan highlighting Century II as a model of functional elegance.

Example 3: Family with Special Needs

A family from Tulsa, Oklahoma, with a 10-year-old autistic child booked a sensory-friendly tour. Century II accommodated their request by:

• Reducing ambient noise during the tour
• Providing noise-canceling headphones
• Allowing the child to touch non-sensitive props under supervision
• Extending the tour time by 30 minutes to allow for breaks

The parents later wrote: Weve tried dozens of museums and theaters. This was the first time our son didnt become overwhelmed. Thank you for seeing us.

This experience prompted Century II to develop a formal sensory-friendly tour protocol, now offered monthly.

Example 4: Social Media Influencer Feature

A Kansas-based travel influencer with 85,000 followers booked a behind-the-scenes tour and created a 12-minute YouTube video titled Inside Century II: What Youre NOT Supposed to See. The video included drone footage of the exterior, close-ups of the acoustic panels, and interviews with crew members.

The video received over 420,000 views in its first month and led to a 37% increase in tour bookings the following quarter. Century II later partnered with the influencer for a series of Tour Tuesdays live streams.

FAQs

Do I need to pay for a tour of Century II Performing Arts Center?

Public tours are offered free of charge. Group tours and behind-the-scenes experiences may have a nominal fee to cover staffing and materials, typically $5$10 per person. No fees are charged for children under 12 when accompanied by a guardian. Donations are welcomed but not required.

Can I take photos during the tour?

Yes, photography is permitted in all public areas and most backstage zones, as long as flash is turned off and you do not obstruct other guests. Photography is strictly prohibited in the lighting and sound control rooms for security and operational reasons.

How long does a typical tour last?

Public tours last approximately 60 minutes. Behind-the-scenes tours can extend to 90 minutes. Self-guided tours have no time limit but are recommended to take 3045 minutes to fully appreciate the exhibits.

Are tours available on weekends?

Yes, but availability is limited. Public tours are offered on Saturdays at 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. during the fall and winter months. Weekend tours are not available during major performance seasons. Always verify the schedule online.

Can I bring food or drinks on the tour?

No. Food and beverages are not permitted in any performance or backstage areas. Water bottles are allowed but must be kept closed and out of sight. There are dining options available in the lobby after the tour.

Is the tour suitable for young children?

Yes. Children of all ages are welcome. For children under 7, we recommend the public tour, which is shorter and more visually engaging. Behind-the-scenes tours are better suited for ages 10 and up due to technical content and safety protocols.

What if I have mobility limitations?

Century II is fully accessible. Elevators serve all levels. Wheelchairs are available upon request. Restrooms are ADA-compliant. If you need assistance with stairs or require a quieter route, notify the center during booking.

Can I book a tour for a large group like a church or club?

Absolutely. Groups of 10 or more can book customized tours. Special themes can be arranged, including history, architecture, or community impact. Contact the group tours coordinator via email for details.

Are tours offered in languages other than English?

English is the primary language. Spanish-language tours are available by request with at least one weeks notice. Audio guides in Spanish are accessible via the mobile app. For other languages, arrangements can be made on a case-by-case basis.

What happens if a performance is scheduled on the day of my tour?

If a performance is scheduled, the tour route may be adjusted to avoid disruption. You may miss certain areas, but the core experience remains intact. In rare cases, tours may be rescheduled. You will be notified at least 24 hours in advance if changes occur.

Conclusion

Touring the Century II Performing Arts Center is more than a sightseeing activityits an opportunity to connect with the soul of Wichitas cultural heritage. From its bold architectural lines to the meticulous craftsmanship behind every curtain rise, every element of the center has been designed with intention, artistry, and community in mind.

This guide has equipped you with the knowledge to navigate every phase of your visit: from initial research and booking, through preparation and on-site navigation, to post-tour reflection and engagement. Whether youre a first-time visitor or a returning enthusiast, the experience deepens with each visit, revealing new layers of history, technology, and human dedication.

By following the best practices outlined here, leveraging the recommended tools, and learning from real examples, you ensure not only a rewarding personal experience but also contribute to the continued vitality of this vital cultural institution.

As you step out of Century IIs grand atrium into the Wichita daylight, you carry with you more than memoriesyou carry an appreciation for the invisible labor, visionary design, and collective passion that make live performance possible. And that, above all, is the true legacy of Century II Performing Arts Center.