A Letter From Bill
Educators,
At the Kenan Center, we believe community spaces can spark curiosity, creativity, and connection. As part of our mission to enrich lives through arts, education, and culture, we’re proud to present our On School Time series - programs designed to help students and teachers learn and grow together beyond the classroom.
From youth theater and hands-on workshops to local exhibitions, these experiences bring learning to life and reflect our commitm
We look forward to welcoming your clas to the Kenan Center
BillPatti Executive Director
Meet OurTeam
Lea Heather Tyler Kevin Assistant Director Director of Arts & Engagement Director of Sports & Recreation Arts & Culture Program Manager
Why Choose Kenan Center ForYour Next FieldTrip?
Stress-Free Planning
We make it easy for teachers and chaperones. With ample parking, easy bus access, and clear coordination, all you need to do is show up - we’ll take care of the rest.
Room to Roam
Before or after your experience, students can enjoy our open green spaces to stretch, play, and burn off energy. We even have designated areas for lunchtime picnics or indoor dining.
Engaging, Educational Content
Our experiences are crafted with New York State learning standards in mind. Whether it’s arts, literature, or history, we integrate curriculum-based content into every offering.
Memorable Experiences
From professional theater performances to interactive gallery exhibitions, each visit to the Kenan Center offers a unique opportunity for discovery and excitement. Additionally, performing Arts include an actor talkback after.
VisualArts
Erie Canal Adventure: A JourneyThrough History
A three-part hands-on field trip that brings the history & significance of the Erie Canal to life!
Station 1: Lock & Load – Engineering the Canal Students will operate a mini-lock model to learn how boats moved through the Erie Canal’s lock system, exploring key engineering concepts.
Station 2: Life on the Canal – Meet theTravelers
Oct. 7 - 10 2025
Students tour an Erie Canal art exhibit to learn about canal life, past and present, then create their own artwork inspired by what they’ve seen.
Station 3: Canal Facts – Erie Canal Escape Room
Students work in teams to solve puzzles and crack codes in a canal-themed escape room while learning historical facts. Conclusion: America’s Staircase & Lunch
While eating lunch, students will watch America’s Stairway, a documentary about the Erie Canal's historic impact, especially the iconic Flight of Five.
* Per station - 90 total per day for lunch & movie Presented by the Buffalo Science Museum
Old/NewThreads (Stitch Buffalo Exhibit)
Old/New Threads explores the relationship between textile art, ecomonic empowerment, and community building through Stitch Buffalo, a textile arts center in Buffalo , NY.
OST includes gallery tours, hands on activity within the gallery, textile workshop and speaker/presenter. Schools should call or email to book field trips.
PerformingArts
A Christmas Carol
A family-friendly adaptation of the story of Scrooge - the wealthy miser who learns the true value of compassion through visits from the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future. In this world premiere by Neil and Sasha Wechsler, a meta vaudevillian family brings the story to life, playing all the roles while grappling with their own eternal relationships. A holiday favorite!
The Little Prince
This moving adaptation of the beloved book follows a weary Aviator, stranded in the Sahara, who meets a mysterious Little Prince. Over two weeks, the Prince shares stories of his interplanetary travels and a cherished flower left behind. As their bond grows, the Aviator learns the Prince’s timeless truth: “What is essential is invisible to the eye.” A heartfelt tale for all ages that celebrates imagination and the power of seeing with the heart.
The Complete Works Of William Shakespeare
(Abridged) [Revised] [Again]
Shakespeare’s 37 plays, 3 actors, and only 97 minutes…how could this not be funny? This show comes to the Kenan stage to finish the 25/26 season. Fast paced, witty, and physical, it’s full of laughter for Shakespeare lovers and haters alike. Irreverent, current, and downright silly, the perfect treat as Spring hits the air!
&
4-6
PerformingArts
Vibrant Strings
The Vibrant Strings are a lively three-piece violin group that bring music to life for people of all ages. They blend classical violin skills with music of all kinds. Each show is a vibrant musical adventure, sparking imagination and getting kids dancing. The Vibrant Strings create fun, interactive experiences that invite kids to sing, move, and explore the magic of music.
WonderSpark Puppets: “Fox Fables”
This adaptation of several Aesop's Fables is about a fox who loses his precious tail and with it his identity. He tries to be several other animals instead - with hilarious resultsbefore realizing the moral lesson of this ancient story.
The REV Theatre Co: “The Magic Paintbrush”
Xiao Yue, a young artist in a Chinese fishing village, dreams of a real paintbrush. When a mysterious gift grants her the power to bring her art to life with the rule to use it only for good—she begins helping her community. But when the evil Emperor demands she use her magic for war, Xiao Yue must choose between greed and goodness. This inspiring Chinese folktale celebrates compassion, creativity, and the courage to do what's right.
Feb. 27 2026 10am & 11:30am
Field Day
The Kenan Center offers a structured, affordable option for schools looking to host their Field Day off-site.
At $9.00 per student, we provide access to a wide range of facilities, equipment, and support services to make planning and execution as easy as possible for educators.
Facilities and Amenities:
25 acres of green space large-group outdoor activities
Flexible indoor space available in case of inclement weather or for indoor stations
On-site parking for buses and personal vehicles
Access to concession facilities for lunch or snacks
Available Activities and Equipment:
Inflatables: bounce house & blow-up soccer dart board
Full use of our sports and recreation equipment
Team-building games facilitated by Tyler and Lea, with experience leading student groups
Optional use of our physical activity curriculum to align with your school’s educational goals
Support and Customization:
We can design and set up activity stations based on your group size and schedule
Staff support is available to assist throughout the day
Programs can be tailored to meet specific age groups or activity preferences
This option is ideal for educators seeking a well-organized, engaging field experience without the need for extensive onsite planning or resources.For more details or to schedule your Field Day, please contact us directly.
located in Lockport, NY, has been a cultural hub in Western New York since 1966. Set on a scenic 25-acre campus, we serve children, families, and educators through arts, culture, recreation, and education.
As educators and lifelong learners ourselves, we understand the classroom and partner with schools to offer meaningful, enriching experiences. From workshops and performances to exhibitions and school programs, we support whole-child learning and make it easy for teachers to create lasting educational moments.
When you work with us, you're joining a community that values and supports educators and their students. Please
