Localized comedy series ‘KC Streetcar Takes’ tackles city through hot takes and hot dogs

KC Streetcar Takes // photo by Alex Bentzinger

Have you ever been approached on the streetcar by a bearded man wielding a microphone fixed to a hot dog? Did he ask for your most controversial opinions? If so, you’ve landed on KC Streetcar Takes, a new social media series. Take a deep breath, stay calm, and try to win over host Matt Kek.

If you find the concept familiar, you’re not alone. “I was the one who unoriginally thought it would work on the streetcar from the subway,” explains executive producer and creator David Henderson (along with co-creator Patrick Moore). He refers to the unapologetic emulation of the online talk show Subway Takes. If you are not familiar with this social media ‘show’, host Kareem Rahma argues with New Yorkers on public transportation. His question “what’s your take?” is typically followed by the interviewee’s (often controversial) point of view.

With the reference material garnering more than 4 million followers across platforms, it’s no wonder KC Streetcar Takes aims to let Kansas City take a crack at your algorithm. Local personalities, such as My KC Live host Kerrigan Arnold and Screenland Armour owner Adam Roberts, appear on the show. Henderson explains, “We have the opportunity to meet a lot of fun people doing something cool in the city.” Even if that conversation is arguing for Bigfoot’s popularity among cryptids.

Shifting focus to the show itself, Kansas Citians’ ‘takes’ are the main course, and host Matt Kek’s job is to keep audiences engaged. After stints as Wendy’s social media manager and viral snake video creator, Kek finds himself on the streetcar. He represents the viewing public by agreeing or disagreeing with each opinion. He takes this responsibility seriously.

“Well, I think people will learn pretty quickly that my objective truth is dumb, and that I actually might be the dumb one here,” the host states. Exchanges ranging from getting the Chili’s logo tattooed on your butt to dunking on Raising Cane’s fill the interviews between stops.

The cast of characters expands beyond the commuters to include the KC Streetcar, the filming location itself. “Last week we had someone start talking to Matt while he was in the middle of an interview,” explains Henderson. Even production has captured the streetcar’s unique charm. As director of photography, Sam Sullivan navigates the audio, lighting, and interruption challenges of filming on public transportation. As a result, the team produces an accelerated show between stops, raising the quality beyond typical social media videos.

Five episodes in, Henderson is optimistic about the reception: “Let’s see what else we can do and who else might have a spicy take to give.” Episode three featured Glen Robinson of Hood Dude Food Review. It racked up almost 60 thousand views and over 500 comments on TikTok.

“We want to embrace everything public transit can be besides transportation,” says Donna Mandelbaum, marketing director for the Kansas City Streetcar Authority. Mandelbaum’s longtime involvement with the streetcar from its inception has earned her the loving nickname “Streetcar Donna.” The art shows or musical performances occasionally seen on public transportation, can be partially attributed to her – taking a swing at social media seemed like the next step to show her charm. 

“If you eavesdrop on the regular, there’s some crazy conversations happening on the streetcar all the time,” describes Streetcar Donna. “We’re just taking that and adding Matt with a microphone.” 

Adding to the show’s local flair, even local businesses are joining the promotions, the latest from Ding Dong Dogs. This innovative brand synergy allowed Kek to brandish a Chicago dog during interviews. “I’m a billboard right here. NASCAR me up,” explains Kek of his marketing mantra. Don’t worry, the everyday citizen can reach out via social media to pitch their own take for the show.

So whether you’re a local artist, food enthusiast, or simply curious, use this brand new streetcar function to your heart’s content: find a local artist, see some food recommendations, or hear grown men argue about bigfoot. In the local social media landscape, KC Streetcar Takes is taking an established idea and converting it into a well-produced, lighthearted talk show.

You can keep up with Kansas City’s hot takes by watching weekly episodes on KC Streetcar Take’s Instagram or TikTok.