NEWS RELEASE
Wichita Symphony Orchestra
June 11, 2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wichita Symphony Orchestra Announces Summer 2026 Symphony Storytime Series
Wichita, KS – The Wichita Symphony Orchestra invites families across south-central Kansas to experience the joy of live music, storytelling, and hands-on learning with the return of Symphony Storytime, now in its third summer.
This free, interactive performance series brings a beloved children’s book to life through live music and engaging demonstrations by Wichita Symphony musicians. In Summer 2026, audiences will explore Never Play Music Right Next to the Zoo by John Lithgow, as five orchestra musicians introduce their instruments, demonstrate how music is created, and perform fun, animal-inspired selections woven throughout the story.
The program culminates in a collaborative musical finale, inviting young audience members to join in making music alongside the performers. Each participant will also receive a free coloring and activity book created in partnership with local artist Lindsey Kernodle, featuring illustrations of Wichita Symphony musicians, orchestral instruments, and Century II Concert Hall.
“Symphony Storytime is often a child’s very first live music experience,” said Tim Storhoff, Executive Director of the Wichita Symphony Orchestra. “By pairing a fun story with professional musicians from the orchestra, we’re giving kids the chance to see, hear, and feel how music comes to life. Just as importantly, we’re meeting families where they are—at libraries and community spaces—and creating an open, welcoming environment where curiosity can grow into a lifelong connection to music.”
The Symphony Storytime program reflects the Wichita Symphony’s mission to enrich, educate, and entertain diverse audiences of all ages through orchestral music. Designed for children ages 4–8, Symphony Storytime performances are approximately 45 minutes in length and welcome music lovers of all ages.
New this summer, the Wichita Symphony is partnering with the Wichita Public Library and City of Wichita Park and Recreation to bring Symphony Storytime beyond the performance stage through StoryWalk installations at Buffalo Park, Linwood Park, and Fairmount Park. StoryWalks combine reading and movement, with pages of a children’s book displayed along a walking path so families can read together as they explore the park. This summer’s installation features The Remarkable Farkle McBride, the musical story by John Lithgow that was part of last summer’s Symphony Storytime series.
2026 Public Symphony Storytime Schedule:
Admission is free. Visit wichitasymphony.org for the latest schedule and information or contact the Symphony box office at (316) 267-7658.
FOR MEDIA INQUIRIES:
Contact: Timothy Storhoff, Executive Director
Phone: (316) 267-5259, ext. 106
Email: tstorhoff@wso.org
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