History:
MTW was founded in 1968 by opera singer Gladys Swarthout and businessman Henry Levinstein and originally housed its productions at the Wichita Art Museum. In 1972, the company became the first resident theatre of The Century II Convention and Performing Arts Center, which houses two of MTW's current venues: The Century II Concert Hall and the Shephard Theatre.
Programming:
During its annual eight-week summer season, MTW produces one grand musical and one new or rarely-produced musical each year, accompanied by a concert reading series. The grand musical is typically a well-known title, while the second production is a smaller-cast offering. Casting for the grand musicals features Broadway actors and singers along with members of the Wichita community. MTW also produces special off-season events such as Christmas concerts, cabaret style performances, and gala fundraisers.
MTW has been credited with the discovery of several major Broadway talents such as Karen Morrow and David Aaron Baker, and has featured performers such as Sarah Brightman, Rebecca Luker, Brian Stokes Mitchell, Tyne Daly, and Ben Vereen.
In 2009, MTW launched its "Education at MTW" program to provide theatrical arts training and outreach services to students and educators in the Wichita community. This program includes the "Broadway Spotlight" touring program, which provides educational performances to schools across Kansas, as well as workshops, master classes, and community productions.
Artistic Directors:
* Jerry Russell, 1968–1974
* Michael Puleo, 1974–1983
* David Bishop, 1983–2004
* Wayne Bryan, 2004–2011
* Dori DeVoe, 2011–present