This spring’s Youth Matinee series in Stephens Auditorium will bring history and several children’s books to life, all while introducing students to the world of performing arts.

Tickets can be ordered on the Iowa State Center website. 

“Harriet Tubman and The Underground Railroad”

When: 10 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Feb. 1

Students in grades 3-12 can start African American History Month with the story of the courageous woman who freed herself and hundreds of others from slavery through the Underground Railroad, told as a musical history lesson.

“Charlotte’s Web”

When: 10 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Feb. 8

Recommended for grades K-5 

Based on the beloved children’s book, the story focuses on a pig named Wilbur and a spider named Charlotte. Charlotte shows how to be a true friend by using her unique talents to keep Wilbur safe on the farm.

ISU Symphony

When: 10 a.m. Feb. 16

Recommended for grades 4-10 

Led by Jacob Harrison, the ISU Symphony Orchestra performance will include a tour of the instrument families and a piece inspired by Japanese anime. Students can see and hear the instruments up close after the program.

“The Very Hungry Caterpillar” and Other Eric Carle Favorites

When: 10 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. March 8

Recommended for grades PreK-2

Based on the books by Eric Carle, this puppet-performed show brings to life Carle’s illustrations in “Little Cloud”, “The Mixed-Up Chameleon” and “The Very Hungry Caterpillar.” All three stories emphasize individuality.

“Alexander Who’s Not, Not, Not, Not, Not, Not Going to Move”

When: 10 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. April 1

Recommended for grades K-4

As you can probably guess, Alexander is not thrilled about moving to a new town. Based on the book by Judith Viorst, Alexander helps children discover the true meaning of home and how to handle big changes.

“Through the Eyes of a Friend: The World of Anne Frank”

When: 10 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. April 18

Recommended for grades 5-12

Told through the eyes of Anne Frank’s fictional best friend Sarah Weis, who grows up with Anne and encounters her again in the concentration camps, the story is based on the testimonials of those who knew Anne Frank during her life and of the young people throughout Europe who experienced the Holocaust.

For more information, visit the Iowa State Center’s website.