(Salina, KS 08-26) The Arts & Healing Collective, in partnership with Salina Arts & Humanities and Theatre Salina, is pleased to host the Owen/Cox Dance Group (Kansas City, MO) for a community residency centered around the multidisciplinary production Collective: Our Stories of Cancer. Two public performances will take place at Theatre Salina on October 9 and 10, 2026.
Developed through narratives shared by people impacted by cancer, Collective: Our Stories of Cancer is a one-hour performance that uses movement, music, and spoken-word to express the physical, emotional, and spiritual dimensions of living with and beyond illness. The work was created in collaboration with members of Gilda’s Club Kansas City and is intentionally designed to reflect the voices of patients, survivors, caregivers, and loved ones, as a hopeful piece that does not shy away from difficulty, while emphasizing support, self-advocacy, and hope.
“Cancer touches nearly every family,” said Colleen Marrs, community member and cancer survivor. “This residency creates space for connection and reflection, alongside performing arts experiences that can complement care and strengthen community resilience.”
In addition to the performances, Owen/Cox company members will offer dance and music workshops, opportunities for conversation about the creative process, and facilitated community engagement activities exploring the role the arts can play in healing and wellness.
Community Participation Opportunities
Planned activities include:
- Two public performances, October 9 & 10, 7:00 pm at Theatre Salina, 303 E Iron Ave, Salina, KS. Tickets are $20 for adults, and $10 for students, available online at https://salinatheatre.com/tickets/
- Workshops: Owen/Cox company dancers and Collective creatives will also offer dance and music workshops for community members on Saturday, October 10. All workshops are $10 each. Enroll in all dance sessions for a total of $25.
Financial assistance is available. More information available at https://theatresalina.ludus.com/form.php?form_id=20558
About Owen/Cox Dance Group
Owen/Cox Dance Group is an ensemble of dancers and musicians dedicated to collaborative new work. Founded in 2006 by dancer/choreographer Jennifer Owen (Russian State Ballet, Hong Kong Ballet, Kansas City Ballet) and composer Brad Cox (2010 Charlotte Street Generative Performing Artist Award), the company is recognized for artistic excellence and for building creative partnerships with arts, educational, cultural, and social service organizations.
Why This Project Matters
In north-central Kansas, more than 10,000 people rely on cancer treatment services provided by Salina Regional Health Center, the Cancer Treatment Center of Kansas, and other healthcare providers. The physical and emotional burden associated with cancer treatment can be significant, and patients and caregivers often experience isolation, stress, anxiety, and fatigue. This project responds to a clear community need by integrating professional performing arts and participatory workshops into a supportive community framework—expanding opportunities for connection, reflection, and resilience.
Ticket Information
What: Collective: Our Stories of Cancer
Where: Theatre Salina, 303 E Iron Ave, Salina, KS 67401
When: October 9–10, 2026, 7:00 pm
Tickets: https://salinatheatre.com/tickets/ or call 785-827-3033
Accessibility: Call the Theatre box office at 785-827-3033 for accessibility accommodations.
Special thanks to Salina Regional Health Foundation, the Dane G. Hansen Foundation, the Greater Salina Community Foundation, Theatre Salina, and Salina Arts & Humanities for helping make this project possible. Additional underwriting support comes from individuals and businesses in Salina and the surrounding region.
About the Arts & Healing Collective
The Arts & Healing Collective is a group of cultural organizations, citizens, and cancer survivors who believe in the positive impact the arts can have on health and healing. The Collective is seeking healthcare partners to serve as advocates and advisors as new ways to integrate arts and healing are explored. More information is available online at https://www.facebook.com/artsandhealingcollective.
Salina Arts & Humanities, a department of the City of Salina, has served a unique role as an arts advocate and resource partner since 1966. The Smoky Hill River Festival, Horizons Grants Program, Smoky Hill Museum, Arts Infusion Program in schools, Community Art & Design, and Creative Connections are among the programs of Salina Arts & Humanities, located at 211 W. Iron Avenue in Salina.