Comedy, genre-blending brilliance, and magic — all at Universal Preservation Hall

A dazzling lineup of performances promises laughter, wonder, and musical innovation in Saratoga Springs

SARATOGA SPRINGS—The intimate venue in downtown Saratoga, that has something for everyone, announced more of their winter performances. Universal Preservation Hall continues to bring top-tier artists and shows from bluegrass and jazz to comedians and magicians.

• Jessica Kirson, Sunday, 7:30 p.m. Oct. 26 — A comedy hurricane is hitting UPH! Jessica Kirson’s high-energy, fearlessly honest humor and unforgettable characters have made her a fan favorite on “The Tonight Show,” Comedy Central, and “The Howard Stern Show.” Come laugh so hard you’ll forget your own name. (Side effects may include sore cheeks and sudden bursts of joy).
• Sh!t-Faced Shakespeare: Hamlet, 7:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 30 — To drink or not to drink? Too late. One professionally trained actor. One fully rehearsed Shakespearean classic. One cast member “completely sh!t-faced.” It’s chaos. It’s comedy. It’s culture (sort of). This is “Hamlet” like you’ve never seen it, because honestly, neither has the drunk guy.
• Los Lobos, 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 1 — Celebrate 50 years of genre-blending brilliance with the legendary Los Lobos! From East L.A. rock to Tex-Mex blues, and soul, these Grammy-winning icons bring heart, history, and some serious heat to the stage.
• Yonder Mountain String Band, 8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 6 — Bluegrass just got a wild upgrade. Yonder Mountain String Band fuses jam band energy with traditional Americana for a sound that’s part front-porch picking, part full-on festival frenzy. Bring your dancing shoes and a sense of adventure for Yonder Mountain String Band’s return to UPH. This isn’t your grandpa’s banjo night.
• Branford Marsalis, 7:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 27 — Jazz royalty in the house. Saxophone virtuoso Branford Marsalis returns with a performance that’s equal parts masterclass and soul revival. From intricate improvisation to stunning melodic power, this is live jazz at its most brilliant. Prepare to be blown away — gently and artfully.
• Finnegan’s Farewell, March 12-15 — The team behind “Tony n’ Tina’s Wedding” invites you to an uproarious night of Irish comedy, music, and shenanigans you won’t forget. With a missing body, a colorful cast of characters, and plenty of food, drink, and dance, this wake turns into a party like no other.
• Jokers of Magic, 7:30 p.m. Thursday, March 19 — What do you get when world-class magicians learn stand-up comedy… or maybe it’s the other way around? Jokers of Magic combines mind-bending illusions with laugh-out-loud moments in one wildly entertaining show. Reality will be questioned. Jaws will drop. Laughter is guaranteed.
• Yacht Rock Gold Experience featuring Elliot Lurie, 7:30 p.m. Saturday, April 11 — Set sail on a sea of smooth. Yacht Rock Gold brings the soft rock hits of the ‘70s and ‘80s to life with pitch-perfect harmonies and sunny vibes. Bonus: Elliot Lurie joins the crew! Dress in your finest captain’s hat and get ready to sing like it’s 1978 again.
• Benny Benack III: The Magic of Manhattan, 7:30 p.m. Friday, May 29 — Modern swagger meets old-school cool. Trumpeter and crooner Benny Benack III channels Sinatra-style charisma with a fresh, jazz-infused flair. “The Magic of Manhattan” is a tribute to the golden age of NYC nightlife — think smoky clubs, sharp suits, and timeless tunes.

For tickets visit the Box Office at Proctors in-person or via phone at (518) 346-6204 Tuesday-Saturday 12 -6 p.m. or visit atuph.org.  Groups of 10 or more can get the group advantage by calling (518) 382-3884 x 139. The season is brought to you by Bonacio.