The Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts hosts almost 500,000 visitors annually who experience over 350 extraordinary, world-class performing arts experiences. To help ensure such experiences for each visitor are enjoyed, the Center has created policies and procedures to promote a secure, welcoming environment for each guest.
The evolution of the Kauffman Center’s security screening policy, in collaboration with our presenting partners, demonstrates an ongoing effort to reduce concerns about bulky or unsafe items which hinder the security, and comfort of all patrons. Policies and procedures at the Kauffman Center continue to evolve as technology and resources emerge that fit the environmental and security needs of all patrons.
All persons and items entering the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts are subject to search. Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts management reserves the right to refuse any item deemed a potential safety or security risk or with the potential to be a distraction to the event being held.
Screenings will be performed by trained professional contracted security staff, and may include, but are not limited to:
- Visual screening
- Bag, case, coat, and hat screenings
- Hand-held magnetometers
- Walk-through magnetometers and/or threat detection systems
- Certain types of bags and/or cases are prohibited, including but not limited to:
- Backpacks
- Luggage
- Computer Bags
- Camera Bags/Cases
- Instrument Cases
- Briefcases
- Large Totes and Duffel Bags
All bags entering the Kauffman Center will be screened at the point of entry. Items prohibited in the Kauffman Center include, but are not limited to:
- Firearms of any size or type*
- Other weapons and knives of any size or type
- Pepper spray, mace or other chemicals
- Alcohol, illegal substances or drug paraphernalia
- Cameras, video and audio recording equipment
- Laptops and tablets**
- Cans, bottles or outside food and beverages
- Helium balloons
*The Kauffman Center prohibits anyone from entering the building with weapons, including those with concealed carry permits. Licensed active-duty law enforcement officers may contact the Patron Services team with appropriate identification upon arrival if carrying a firearm. All Kauffman Center visitors are subject to search. Anyone found in violation will be asked to secure the weapon inside their vehicle or leave the property immediately.
**Exceptions may be made for those utilizing accessibility services on their personal device.
Patrons with prohibited bags, cases, or other items have two options:
- The item may be returned to a vehicle prior to admittance.
- Bags or cases may be left at the Kauffman Center’s Coat Check located on the Plaza Lobby Level. (These items will be screened prior to entering the facility.)
The following exceptions will be made after a proper inspection for:
- Diaper bags
- Oversized medically necessary items
- Equipment use of approved media outlets accompanied and approved by Kauffman Center staff
Backpack purses must be worn on one shoulder. If the purse is worn as a backpack, the patron will be asked to adhere to this policy or check the bag at Coat Check.
Unattended items left anywhere in the facility will be inspected and taken to the Security Office.
Please note:
Our security protocol is a perpetual, sustained, and ever-expanding effort. The Kauffman Center continues to reevaluate safety and security processes and new applications may be integrated into our operations to better provide service to our patrons and guests.
For questions or to connect with a Kauffman Center staff representative, please get in touch with us.
Contact Us
Phone: 816.994.7222
