Student Matinees at UPH
Students experience live theatre while engaging with curriculum-based programming at three historic venues: Proctors, Capital Repertory Theatre, and Universal Preservation Hall.
Universal Preservation Hall, Saratoga’s newest performing arts venue, offers high-quality productions during the school day. Students enjoy stunning music and theater performances surrounded by stained glass and the charm of bustling Saratoga Springs.
“Pure Poe: Three Tales of the Macabre”
By Edgar Allan Poe
Adapted by Maggie Mancinelli-Cahill
Directed by Margaret E. Hall
Get ready for an electrifying return of one of Capital Repertory Theatre’s most adored touring shows – “Pure Poe” is back, and it’s more thrilling than ever! Step into a world of passion, madness, and chilling mystery as Edgar Allan Poe’s unforgettable characters burst to life. Witness lost loves, gruesome murders, and a desperate prince fighting his deadly fate as the legendary master storyteller himself, Edgar Allan Poe, rises from the grave to weave his dark tales. Prepare to be captivated as Poe recites his iconic poem “The Raven,” alongside the spine-tingling “The Tell-Tale Heart,” and the haunting “Masque of the Red Death.” This is a show you don’t want to miss!
Show Details:
Date: 10 a.m. Oct. 22, 2025
Location: Great Hall at UPH
Price: $9
Grade level: 6+
Length: 45 min. with a 15-min. talkback
CC: Literature, ELA
“They Built America: Workers of the Erie Canal”
By Maggie Mancinelli-Cahill
Directed by Margaret E. Hall
Join Kelly McPhearson, a fearless Irish lass, on an incredible journey to find her brother (her only family in America), who’s working on the canal. Sourced from more than 35 historical records, this original work celebrates the real men, women, children, politicians, farmers, merchants, and laborers who built the Erie Canal – the miraculous waterway that transformed America from a burgeoning country into a great nation! Told with live music and text, history comes to life with figures such as physician Dr. Finch, Italian mason Antonio, Swedish packet boat Captain Gus, Governor DeWitt Clinton, congressmen, and many more!
Show Details:
Date: 10 a.m. March 18, 2026
Location: Great Hall at UPH
Price: $9
Grade level: 3+
Length: 45 min. with a 15-min. talkback
CC: Literature, ELA, American History
“Literature to Life Stage Presentation: I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter”
Literature to Life adapts Erika L. Sánchez’s novel as the newest title in their Signature Performance series. The novel focuses on the idea of finding one’s own identity and breaking free from societal, cultural, and familial expectations. The story follows Julia Reyes, a Chicago high school student, as she navigates the trials and tribulations of following her dreams of becoming a writer, while dealing with the death of her sister, Olga — who might not have been quite as perfect as she seemed.
This production contains mature themes of grief, mental health struggles, and cultural pressure. Educators are encouraged to review content and prepare students accordingly.
Show Details:
Date: 10 a.m. April 15, 2026
Location: Great Hall at UPH
Price: $10
Grade level: 9+
Length: 60 min. with 15-min. talkback
CC: Storytelling, Mexican Culture
Doktor Kaboom: Look Out! Science is Coming!
Young Yeila dreams of being a superstar but her lack of confidence gives her awful stage fright. With advice from her mother and mentors, Yeila begins her journey to find her roots, get confidence and be amazing! Travel with Yeila who visits her grandmother in Cuba to add a salsa flavor to her own hip-hop style! The audience gets to dance along in this dynamic participation play where one actress creates three generations of lively women. Journey with Yeila as she discovers the fun of her multi-cultural heritage.
Show Details:
Date: 10 a.m. April 23, 2026
Location: Great Hall at UPH
Price: $11
Grade level: 3-7
Length: 60 minutes
CC: Comedy, Science
Personal responsibility statement: UPH prides itself on offering a diverse selection of arts entertainment. Not all productions may appeal or be appropriate for every person or all ages. Patrons are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the shows we offer, in order to make informed decisions prior to purchasing tickets.