Performances for Schools
Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts is proud to provide five live educational events free of charge to local students and school groups during the 2025-2026 Center Presents Season in partnership with Allied Solutions.
These free matinee performances allow students to enjoy a wide variety of live arts experiences with the opportunity to ask questions of the artists after each program. Some student matinees also include the availability of educational resources such as classroom activity ideas, study guides and supplemental content.
NOTE: For homeschool groups, each family must register individually.
School groups are invited to apply for reimbursement of transportation costs through Allied Solutions Center’s Transportation Grant Program.
For questions, email SchoolPrograms@TheCenterPresents.org or call 317.819.3523.
2025-2026 Student Matinees
Pricing: $25-$175 FREE!
Registration for homeschools and groups smaller than 20 will open six weeks prior to each performance. Sign up to receive email reminders when homeschool registration opens!
Science vs. Halloween Magic
October 28 & 29 | 10:30AM
The Tarkington
Grades: 2-6
Subjects: Science
Length: 60 minutes followed by 15-minute Q&A
Registration Deadline: Oct. 14, 2025
Science vs. Halloween Magic is an exciting hour of exploration and wonder with presenters Rick Crosslin and Keith Ramsey. This engaging, interactive program pits Crosslin’s fascinating scientific demonstrations against Ramsey’s whimsical pretend magic, complete with wands and spell books. Promising to ignite curiosity and spark imagination, it’s the perfect Halloween treat for the entire family.
Bugs Bunny at the Symphony
Mon November 3 | 10:30AM
Payne & Mencias Palladium
At capacity for schools
School groups can join the waitlist for Bugs Bunny at the Symphony at this time. Seats remain available for homeschool families and small groups of 20 or less (registration to begin September 16).
Grades: K-12
Subjects: Music, Visual Arts/Animation
Length: 60 minutes followed by 15-minute Q&A
Registration Deadline: Oct. 20, 2025
Celebrating Bugs Bunny’s 85th Anniversary, 16 classic Looney Tunes shorts are projected on the big screen as the original iconic scores are played live by a full orchestra. The shorts include Baton Bunny, The Rabbit of Seville, What’s Opera, Doc?, Corny Concerto, Long-Haired Hare, and many others, plus additions including a new anniversary short
Hero: The Boy from Troy
Thu February 19 | 10:30AM
Payne & Mencias Palladium
Grades: 3-7
Subjects: Social Studies, Language Arts, Music, Theater
Topics: Self-Awareness, Social Awareness, Self-Management, Relationship Skills, Responsible Decision-Making, Discrimination, Honesty, Respect, Empathy
Length: 45 minutes followed by 15-minute Q&A
Registration Deadline: Feb. 5, 2026
In this new musical about Civil Rights icon John Lewis, a student goes on a journey through the decades to learn what inspired Lewis to protest injustice and get into “good trouble.” As Lewis meets Rosa Parks and Dr. Martin Luther King and becomes a leader and American hero himself, the student learns how he too can take a stand.
Step Afrika!
Mon March 16 | 10:30AM
Payne & Mencias Palladium
Grades: K-12
Subjects: Social Studies, Music, Dance, Theater/Storytelling
Topics: Teamwork, Academic Achievement, Cross-Cultural Understanding
Length: 60 minutes followed by 15-minute Q&A
Registration Deadline: March 2, 2026
Founded in 1994, Step Afrika! blends traditional African dances, percussive dance styles practiced by historically Black fraternities and sororities, and an array of contemporary dance and art forms into a cohesive, compelling artistic experience integrating songs, storytelling, humor and audience participation. An official Cultural Ambassador of Washington, D.C., Step Afrika! has toured more than 60 countries.
Jake Shimabukuro
Fri May 8 | 10:30AM
Payne & Mencias Palladium
Grades: 2-12
Subjects: Music
Length: 50 minutes followed by 15-minute Q&A
Registration Deadline: April 24, 2026
Ukulele marvel Jake Shimabukuro is known for his innovative and dynamic style, taking the instrument to dizzying new heights. Over a dozen solo albums, Shimabukuro has moved effortlessly between genres. He has played the world’s top venues, from Lincoln Center to the Sydney Opera House, and has worked with artists including Yo-Yo Ma, Bela Fleck and Willie Nelson.
