Ulster Performing Arts Center (UPAC) will celebrate the launch of its 100th season of presenting legendary performances in Kingston with a free Open House for community members and visitors on Tuesday, June 9, from 4-7 pm.
UPAC opened in 1927, this event will officially mark the start of the historic theater’s 100th year.
UPAC is owned and operated by Bardavon 1869 Opera House, Inc., a nonprofit organization and a leading cultural anchor in New York’s Hudson Valley. For more than 157 years, Bardavon has served as a creative home for theater, dance, music, comedy, Live in HD broadcasts, and film. Under the banner of Bardavon Presents, the organization owns and operates two landmark venues: the 928-seat Bardavon 1869 Opera House in Poughkeepsie and the 1,500-seat Ulster Performing Arts Center (UPAC) in Kingston—attracting more than 60,000 patrons annually, including 20,000 students through the Arts-in-Education programs. Bardavon Presents strives to use performing arts to boost community pride, support urban revitalization, promote cultural tourism, and elevate the quality of life for all.
The Open House kicks off a yearlong centennial celebration honoring UPAC’s enduring role as Kingston’s community theater—a vibrant gathering place for arts and culture that has entertained, educated, and inspired generations since Kingston resident Harry Lazarus first built the theater as an opulent movie and vaudeville house.
At 5:30 p.m., City of Kingston Mayor Steve Noble will join Bardavon Presents Executive Director Bryan Zellmer for a short presentation. Throughout the evening, guests are invited to explore the theater, step onto the historic stage, and visit the backstage areas such as the dressing rooms, while staff and volunteers share behind-the-scenes stories about the many performing artists and dignitaries who have visited—from B.B. King to Yo-Yo Ma, Norah Jones, Jon Batiste, Carlos Santana, and more. Beverages and light refreshments will be available.
Plans for additional UPAC Centennial events are underway, including a special free film series, which will be announced soon at www.bardavon.org.
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