Things To Do
Whitaker Center for Science and the Arts is Central Pennsylvania’s premier center for education and cultural enrichment. Whitaker Center is a thought leader in Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics (STEAM) engagement for all ages and backgrounds. We believe that by investing our resources in educating, entertaining, and engaging visitors, we can spark a movement that makes our community a better place to live, work, and play.
Science Exhibitions
Light Up the Night
This free indoor event, presented by M&T Bank, includes science experiments, cookies, craft activity presented by Better Homes and Gardens, free access to the UPMC Science Center (and Animal Academy traveling exhibit), a free holiday movie in the Select Medical Digital cinema, and much more! Join us on November 26th from 5 – 7 PM!
Whitaker Winter Wonderland Holiday Card Contest
Calling all young artists! Join us in spreading holiday cheer at Whitaker Center! Enter our Winter Wonderland Holiday Card Contest and showcase your creative designs! Whether you’re a budding artist or a seasoned creator, we want to see YOUR unique holiday designs. Your card could be the one that lights up our winter season!
Breakfast with Santa
Come join us at The Whitaker Center as we welcome the big man himself, Santa Claus! The morning will be filled with holiday decor, music, and a delicious buffet breakfast. While you’re here, help Santa’s elves finish up some last minute cookie decorating, which you will get to sample and take along with you. While dining, you will enjoy a visit at your table with Santa and Mrs. Claus (picture taking encouraged). After you’ve filled up on our buffet breakfast, head into the Science Center for a morning of exploration before your photo opportunity with Santa. Sit with him on our comfy couch and snag a picture while you’re there (the entire party is welcome to be in the picture). Finally, make your way into our Digital Cinema to watch Olaf’s Frozen Adventure while you snack on a sweet treat from Santa himself.
The Animation Academy
The Animation Academy explores the unique world of animation, from traditional hand-drawn cels to exciting breakthroughs in stop-motion and CGI.
STEM Design Studios
Get hands-on with different STEM topics. These engaging activities will allow parents and kids to explore STEM topics together, learning as a team. Enjoy activities and design challenges with Ozobots™ , Spheros™, 3Doodler™ 3D printing pens, tangrams, K’NEX® and much more!
Carnival of Health
Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls — step right up and experience the one and only Carnival of Health. More than 2,200 square feet of fun-filled themed entertainment opens your eyes to the wonders of healthy living and the human body.
Backstage Studio
Funded by The Alexander Grass Foundation, Backstage Studio features fascinating exhibits that reveal the science and technology behind movies, TV, music, and theatre. Create your own stop-action film, put yourself into the movies in the Foley Studio, and explore the creation of different sound effects in this interactive gallery.
Forces of Nature Exhibit
Through compelling stories of natural forces and environmental change, Forces of Nature is both an exciting thematic area and a relevant science topic that affects everyone’s daily life. The permanent gallery provides guests with the opportunity to experience a variety of extraordinary weather wonders featuring physical “phenomenon-based” exhibits.
Upcoming Shows
Into the Woods
“Once upon a time, in a far-off kingdom, lived a fair maiden, a sad young lad, and a childless baker and his wife.” Our second show of Season 99 is a real fairytale… INTO THE WOODS! James Lapine and Stephen Sondheim take everyone’s favorite storybook characters and bring them together for a timeless, yet relevant, piece… and a rare modern classic. The Tony Award-winning book and score are both enchanting and touching. The story follows a Baker and his wife, who wish to have a child; Cinderella, who wishes to attend the King’s Festival; and Jack, who wishes his cow would give milk. When the Baker and his wife learn that they cannot have a child because of a Witch’s curse, the two set off on a journey to break the curse. Everyone’s wish is granted, but the consequences of their actions return to haunt them later with disastrous results. Running November 8-24 at the Whitaker Center.
The Machine performs Pink Floyd
The Machine has forged a 30+ year reputation of extending the musical legacy of Pink Floyd. The New York-based quartet performs a diverse mix of The Floyd’s extensive 16-album repertoire, complete with faithful renditions of popular hits as well as obscure gems.
Studio 22’s Nutcracker
On a snowy Christmas Eve, a celebration is in full swing! Herr Drosselmeyer, arrives with gifts for all the children at the party, including a very special gift for his niece, Clara. He presents Clara with a wooden Nutcracker. When the clock strikes midnight, the adventure begins. The Nutcracker comes alive, as well as many other creatures including an army of mice and soldiers that begin a war in Clara’s living room! Our heroine, Clara, fights off the Mouse King and the Nutcracker transforms into a handsome Prince. The prince then leads Clara through a dazzling winter wonderland into the magical World of Sweets where the Sugar Plum Fairy brings to life a dreamland of amazement. Studio 22 Dance Academy’s Nutcracker is one of the most treasured holiday traditions for all ages. It is one of the season’s signature holiday events and features traditional and newly integrated choreography by Samantha Pasquarette and the teachers of Studio 22 Dance Academy. This annual performance is the perfect way to welcome the Christmas season with the whole family.
CPYB The Nutcracker
Let the Holiday Magic Come to Life! Whether a holiday tradition or a first-time discovery, The Nutcracker® is an annual gift every family will want to be part of! Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet has been hosting a Nutcracker performance yearly since 1965. Shortly after starting, CPYB became the only school in the world with the license to perform George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker®. Since then, ours has been one of the most sought-after Nutcracker performances to attend or participate in. This performance is enjoyable for the whole family.
Solar Federation
Solar Federation – the only American Rush tribute band invited to perform at A Night for Neil, the 2022 memorial concert organized by the family of late drummer Neil Peart – brings its award-winning interpretation of the iconic progressive rock band’s music to Whitaker Center on Saturday, December 21!
Shree Academy Presents: AdiKavi Narsinh Mehta
Join us for an extraordinary evening of dance and culture as Shree Academy of Arts proudly presents Adikavi Narsinh Mehta. This production is a heartfelt tribute to the revered saint poet Narsinh Mehta, celebrating his timeless ideals of equality, love, and peace.
Ruben Studdard
Grammy Award nominee Ruben Studdard rose to fame as the winner of season two of American Idol. For 2025, Ruben will be constantly creating and performing. His brand-new album – The Way I Remember It – has charted the first two singles. Ruben will hit the road with two distinct tours. “The Masterpiece Tour” will feature Ruben performing his biggest hits and tracks from his new album. Additionally, “Ruben Studdard – My Tribute To Luther” will star Ruben performing the songbook of the iconic Luther Vandross.
Let’s Sing Taylor
Let’s Sing Taylor – A Live Band Experience – is the ultimate tribute to the music of Taylor Swift. We can show you incredible things, including the most faithful and lively covers of Queen Taylor’s expansive and sacred catalog. Taking the country by storm, we’re bringing the communal experience of celebrating Taylor’s music in a live setting to Swifties near and far. So, let the games begin. Calling all Swifties to sing your hearts out and sport your Taylor-inspired attire. You can show up at our party any time.
Richard Thompson
Richard Thompson’s musical influence cannot be overstated. Having co-founded the groundbreaking group Fairport Convention as a teenager in the ‘60s, he and his bandmates invented the distinctive strain of British Folk Rock. He left the group by the age of 21 which was followed by a decade long musical partnership with his then-wife Linda, to over 30 years as a highly successful solo artist. In 2011, Thompson received an OBE (Order of the British Empire) personally bestowed upon him by Queen Elizabeth II at Buckingham Palace. The Los Angeles Times called him “the finest rock songwriter after Dylan and the best electric guitarist since Hendrix” and Rolling Stone has named him one of the Top 100 Guitarists of All Time. He has received lifetime achievement awards for songwriting from the BBC Radio 2 Awards, the Americana Music Association, and was awarded the prestigious Ivor Novello Award. His song “1952 Vincent Black Lightning” was named one of TIME Magazine’s “100 Greatest Songs Since 1923.” A wide range of musicians have recorded Thompson’s songs including Robert Plant, Elvis Costello, R.E.M., Sleater-Kinney, Del McCoury, Bonnie Raitt, Tom Jones, David Byrne, Don Henley, Los Lobos, and many more. His massive body of work includes many Grammy nominated albums as well as numerous soundtracks, including Werner Herzog’s Grizzly Man and 2019’s The Cold Blue. His genre defying mastery of both acoustic and electric guitar along with engaging energy and onstage wit continue to earn him new fans and a place as one of the most distinctive virtuosos and writers in Folk Rock history. On May 31, 2024 Richard Thompson will release the anticipated Ship To Shore, his first studio album in six years.
Rhythm of the Dance
This incredible live show creates a new era in Irish entertainment, containing a wealth of Irish talent, featuring World and Irish champion dancers, some of the finest Traditional musicians and singers who are a big hit everywhere. Combining traditional dance and music with the most up to date stage technology, this two-hour dance and music extravaganza takes the audiences on an exhilarating and exciting, energy-packed time trip through the ages. It’s internationally rated as one of the most popular and busiest Irish step dance shows in the world making it such a success with critics and audiences worldwide. Be sure to share the experience when it comes to a venue near you. You’ll be very glad you did. It really is out of this world as seen by 7 million people in 50 countries.
Four Phantoms
An extravagant celebration of the iconic music of Broad way and more, The Four Phantoms In Concert brings together four Phantoms from the Tony Award – winning The Phantom of the Opera for an unforgettable night of entertainment. The Four Phantoms features an extraordinary quartet of performers, including Brent Barrett, John Cudia, Francm D’Ambrosio, and Ciarán Sheehan under the music direction of Ryan Shirar.
Murder on the Orient Express
“I believe it was the greatest case of my career, but who am I to say? Modesty forbids it.” Our fourth show of Season 99 will be a real nail-biter… AGATHA CHRISTIE’S MURDER ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS! Just after midnight, a snowdrift stops the Orient Express in its tracks. The luxurious train is surprisingly full for the time of the year, but by the morning it is one passenger fewer. An American tycoon lies dead in his compartment, stabbed eight times, his door locked from the inside. Isolated and with a killer in their midst, the passengers rely on detective Hercule Poirot to identify the murderer – in case he or she decides to strike again. Running April 25-May 11 at the Whitaker Center.
Killer Queen
Lead singer Patrick Myers said “It’s been an amazing journey. That first show changed my life. We thought our band would last maybe a summer at the most but it’s a very addictive thing performing these songs. The concerts grew and grew and we’ve ended up playing and selling out the same arenas that Queen played at their peak. It’s been quite a surreal ride. Becoming regular performers Red Rocks Arena in America is another highlight . The Beatles, U2, Springsteen, Dylan all played on that stage. It’s really got it’s own kind of magic going on there”
All-4-One
The Grammy Award-Winning group, All-4-One, is internationally known for making beautiful love songs that not only chart radio airwaves, but also garner countless awards.
Currently Playing
The Grinch PJ Party
Join us for a festive, family-friendly event featuring a screening of How the Grinch Stole Christmas. Enjoy cookies and hot cocoa before the movie. It’s the perfect way to kick off the holiday season with a heartwarming (and Grinchy!) celebration for all ages. Perfect for kids and families, this event promises a holly-jolly good time that’ll grow your heart three sizes.
The Polar Express 3D PJ Party
All aboard! Whitaker Center is thrilled to host a Polar Express 3D PJ Party—a holiday favorite for the whole family! Slip into your coziest pajamas, grab your golden ticket, and join us for a 3D journey to the North Pole in our Select Medical Digital Cinema.
White Christmas
A successful song-and-dance team become romantically involved with a sister act and team up to save the failing Vermont inn of their former commanding general.
The Polar Express 3D
On Christmas Eve, a young boy embarks on a magical adventure to the North Pole on the Polar Express, while learning about friendship, bravery, and the spirit of Christmas.
How the Grinch Stole Christmas
In this live-action adaptation of the beloved children’s tale by Dr. Seuss, the reclusive green Grinch (Jim Carrey) decides to ruin Christmas for the cheery citizens of Whoville. Follow the Grinch, a cranky, solitary creature who attmepts to thward the public’s Christmas plans by stealing Christmas gifts and decorations from the homes of the nearby town of Whoville on Christmas Eve.
ELF
Buddy the Elf doesn’t fit in with the other North Pole elves, so he travels to New York to find his real father and spread some Christmas cheer.
Lewis & Clark: Great Journey West
The film chronicles a group of explorers – the Corps of Discovery – led by Meriwether Lewis and William Clark into uncharted territory to find a water passageway to the Pacific Ocean and describe for science the wonders of the West.
Great Bear Rainforest
Journey to a land of grizzlies, coastal wolves, sea otters and the all-white spirit bear — the rarest bear on earth — in the film Great Bear Rainforest 3D, narrated by Ryan Reynolds.
Ireland
Journey to a magical land of stunning natural wonders, ancient clifftop marvels, and a rich, cultural heritage in the new film Ireland for IMAX® and giant screen theatres.
Into America’s Wild 3D
From the Academy Award® nominated producers of the acclaimed hit film National Parks Adventure comes Into America’s Wild, a visually stunning cross-country adventure into the hidden wonders of the natural world.
Expedition Chesapeake, A Journey of Discovery
Expedition Chesapeake, A Journey of Discovery is the first giant-screen film to capture the stunning natural beauty of the largest estuary in North America.
Tiny Giants 3D
Enter a magical world beneath our feet. Tiny Giants 3D reveals the astonishing lives of the smallest of animals.
Dream Big: Engineering Our World
From the world’s tallest building to underwater robots and a solar car race across Australia, Dream Big celebrates the human ingenuity and stories behind engineering marvels big and small, and reveals the heart that drives engineers to create better lives for people around the world.
Journey to Space 3D
In the past half century, humans have punched through the stratosphere, walked on the moon, and lived continuously in orbit. In the coming decades, our unquenchable curiosity will take our species beyond the cradle of Earth to touch the face of another world.
Flight of the Butterflies
It is a natural history epic. It is a detective story. Join hundreds of millions of real butterflies on an amazing journey to a remote and secret hideaway, and one scientist’s 40-year search to unravel the mystery – where do they go each fall? Experience the Flight of the Butterflies 3D.
National Parks Adventure 3D
Narrated by Academy Award® winner Robert Redford, National Parks Adventure takes audiences on the ultimate off-trail adventure into the nation’s awe-inspiring great outdoors and untamed wilderness.
Great Barrier Reef 3D
Every year millions of visitors travel by way of fins, flippers and feet to see one of the seven wonders of the natural world: the Great Barrier Reef – a living treasure trove of biodiversity.
Tornado Alley 3D
Tornado Alley is a giant-screen adventure that takes viewers on an epic chase through the “severe weather capital of the world.”
Forces of Nature
Forces of Nature will showcase the awesome spectacle of earthquakes, volcanoes, and severe storms as we follow scientists on their groundbreaking quests to understand how these natural disasters are triggered.
Grand Canyon Adventure: River at Risk 3D
Join environmental advocates Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. and Wade Davis as they set out with their daughters, traveling deep into the Grand Canyon and down the river that runs through it.
Wings Over Water
Wings Over Water tells the story of the epic journeys of three amazing bird families – the Sandhill Crane, the Yellow Warbler and the Mallard Duck – with extraordinary footage of their fascinating behaviors.
Astronaut: Ocean to Orbit
Astronaut: Ocean to Orbit explores the ways in which NASA uses underwater environments to simulate life and work in space, offering a fascinating look into the high-tech world of astronauts.
Super Human Body: World of Medical Marvels
Super Human Body: World of Medical Marvels combines state-of-the-art CGI and live-action cinematography to explore the inner workings of our bodies and show how science and technology can help us intervene, and even save lives, when our bodies fail us.
Special Events
Light Up the Night
This free indoor event, presented by M&T Bank, includes science experiments, cookies, craft activity presented by Better Homes and Gardens, free access to the UPMC Science Center (and Animal Academy traveling exhibit), a free holiday movie in the Select Medical Digital cinema, and much more! Join us on November 26th from 5 – 7 PM!
Whitaker Winter Wonderland Holiday Card Contest
Calling all young artists! Join us in spreading holiday cheer at Whitaker Center! Enter our Winter Wonderland Holiday Card Contest and showcase your creative designs! Whether you’re a budding artist or a seasoned creator, we want to see YOUR unique holiday designs. Your card could be the one that lights up our winter season!
The Grinch PJ Party
Join us for a festive, family-friendly event featuring a screening of How the Grinch Stole Christmas. Enjoy cookies and hot cocoa before the movie. It’s the perfect way to kick off the holiday season with a heartwarming (and Grinchy!) celebration for all ages. Perfect for kids and families, this event promises a holly-jolly good time that’ll grow your heart three sizes.
Breakfast with Santa
Come join us at The Whitaker Center as we welcome the big man himself, Santa Claus! The morning will be filled with holiday decor, music, and a delicious buffet breakfast. While you’re here, help Santa’s elves finish up some last minute cookie decorating, which you will get to sample and take along with you. While dining, you will enjoy a visit at your table with Santa and Mrs. Claus (picture taking encouraged). After you’ve filled up on our buffet breakfast, head into the Science Center for a morning of exploration before your photo opportunity with Santa. Sit with him on our comfy couch and snag a picture while you’re there (the entire party is welcome to be in the picture). Finally, make your way into our Digital Cinema to watch Olaf’s Frozen Adventure while you snack on a sweet treat from Santa himself.
The Polar Express 3D PJ Party
All aboard! Whitaker Center is thrilled to host a Polar Express 3D PJ Party—a holiday favorite for the whole family! Slip into your coziest pajamas, grab your golden ticket, and join us for a 3D journey to the North Pole in our Select Medical Digital Cinema.