Shirley Bush Helzberg Garden of the Stars Fountain
Owner: Kansas City Parks & Recreation Department
Dates: Constructed 1996, Dedicated 1997
The City of Fountains Foundation holds an endowment for this fountain.
Description:
Located inside the east entrance of Starlight Theatre is the large water feature known as the Shirley Bush Helzberg Garden of the Stars Fountain. The picturesque fountain features ten waterfalls gently cascading amongst eleven brick columns that stand twenty feet tall. The water falls into a pool with more than a dozen vertical water jets. The heights of the jets decrease as the fountain goes west. The pool stretches west toward the performance area curving into the distance for a total length of 180 feet.
The fountain welcomes guests as they enter the east side of the theatre. It is also a favorite resting spot for theatre-goers and has surely served as the backdrop of thousands, if not millions, of photographs taken at Starlight Theatre. It has also been the site of numerous weddings and private events.
The fountain and surrounding garden commemorate Barnett and Shirley Helzberg's longtime dedication to Starlight Theatre. The former owners of Helzberg Jewelers donated $1 million toward the creation of the site. Mrs. Helzberg served as president of the Starlight Board of Directors from 1991 to 1994.
