From celebrated artists to beloved family classics, UBCFA's season brings top talent & diverse programming

Submitted

Wed, Jan 21st 2026 06:55 pm

By the University at Buffalo

The University at Buffalo Center for the Arts (UBCFA), the region’s premier multidisciplinary arts hub, announces its spring 2026 season, featuring music programming that spans jazz, indie and folk rock, along with special events that bring the best in arts and entertainment to Western New York.

From nationally touring artists to work from UB’s own creative community, the spring season continues to invite audiences to join in a celebration of the full spectrum of live performance.

“This spring is about energy, discovery and shared experiences,” said Jamie Enser, executive director of the Center for the Arts. “With programming that spans film, music, dance, comedy and family events, we are excited to welcome everyone to experience the joy of live performance.”

The spring season begins at 7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 7, with a screening of the timeless adventure film, “The Goonies.” “The Goonies 40th Anniversary Screening” and Q&A featuring Corey Feldman and Kerri Green brings the classic to life as the stars share behind-the-scenes stories from the making of the film. Later in the month, the UB department of theatre and dance’s Zodiaque Dance Co. appears on the Mainstage with its 51st season spring concert. Performances run Feb. 27-March 1.

As the season continues, March brings entertainment for all ages. At 6 p.m. Thursday, March 5, the “Be Like Blippi Tour” arrives with a brand-new interactive adventure that invites families to unlock the spark of curiosity. At 7 p.m. Saturday, March 7, the “Gen X Comedy Take Over Tour” brings humor, resilience and unapologetic realness that celebrates life’s quirks and the power of being yourself. A timeless story comes to life in a newly adapted live performance at 7 p.m. Friday, March 20, with “Dr. Seuss’s Cat in the Hat Live On Stage” delivering a fresh and memorable experience for the whole family.

Professional dance returns with Complexions Contemporary Ballet at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, March 28. The renowned New York City-based company celebrates its 30th anniversary with a powerful, genre-defying program that fuses classical technique, striking athleticism and innovative choreography. The evening features audience favorites, including “Love Rocks,” a high-energy work set to the music of Lenny Kravitz. $20 student tickets are available for K-12, college and studio students (ID required).

At 8 p.m. Tuesday, April 7, two-time Grammy Award-winning artist Diana Krall brings the “Diana Krall Tour 2026” to the UBCFA. This performance highlights Krall’s distinctive artistry and musicality that transcend any single musical style, making her one of the most recognizable artists of our time. April continues with cutting-edge music events as Waxahatchee and MJ Lenderman headline at 7:30 .m. Thursday, April 23. Joined by emerging artist Brennan Wedl, the lineup delivers a compelling blend of indie rock and alternative country flair.

The end of April features Duane Betts and Palmetto Motel with Wilson and Walsh at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, April 25. Son of legendary guitarist Dickey Betts, Duane infuses classic southern rock tradition with a soulful blend of blues, raw passion and six-string mastery. Backed by his band, Palmetto Motel, and supported by vocalist Samoa Wilson and guitarist-vocalist Sean Walsh, this performance offers a memorable journey for audiences drawn to the rich legacy of southern rock and blues-driven improvisation.

UB’s Distinguished Speakers Series continues Tuesday, Feb. 10 with Kevin Olusola, Pentatonix beatboxer and creativity expert, as the keynote for UB’s 50th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Commemoration Speaker. The series concludes Tuesday, March 10, with former “Today” co-anchor, journalist, author and CEO Hoda Kotb. Tickets for Kotb are nearly sold out; reserve yours soon. Both events begin at 7 p.m.

“Spring Into Art,” a free annual event, wraps up the spring season at 5 p.m. Tuesday, April 28. Showcasing performances, exhibitions, installations and interactive activities by university artists, this community celebration offers guests of all ages a unique opportunity to experience the arts at UB.

Tickets for all performances are available now at ubcfa.org or through Ticketmaster. Tickets may also be purchased in person at the UB Center for the Arts ticket office. Visit the UBCFA website for hours.