National Geographic Live Student Matinees invite classrooms in grades 2–12 to experience awe-inspiring stories from the field via touring live events. You'll meet National Geographic Explorers as they share behind-the-scenes stories and stunning visuals that ignite curiosity and spark real-world impact.
Registration is accepted on a rolling basis until we reach capacity.
Each event includes an hour-long immersive stage presentation and interactive post-show Q&A.
All rehearsals are in the S. Mark Taper Foundation Auditorium at Benaroya Hall.
Throughout human history, bloodsuckers have sparked fear, but there's a reason so many animals rely on the blood of other species. Epidemiologist and National Geographic Explorer Ryan Carney reveals the incredible stories of bats, mosquitoes and more of nature’s vampires. We go on assignment to find out how these animals inspire his sci-fi approach to understanding infectious diseases, and we explore how Al and citizen science are helping to unlock a new era of human health.
Recommended for grades 6-12
Two-time Pulitzer Prize winner and National Geographic Explorer Muhammed Muheisen pursues his photography with the belief that a single image can change the world. His work takes an unflinching but hopeful look at lives impacted by war. From children’s games to balloon salesmen, Muhammed’s images capture the kindness and resilience of humanity in difficult situations as he consistently bears witness to the power of visual stories.
Even thousands of years after its demise, the Roman Empire captivates us, and the ancient city of Pompeii is the place to understand it all. Volcanic ash created an unparalleled glimpse into the lives of ancient people who lived, worked and played in this coastal city. We go on assignment with archaeologist Caitie Barrett to the latest dig sites to uncover new stories that still lie buried in this special place.
Iconic dinosaurs such as Triceratops, Stegosaurus, T. rex and others ruled Earth for 180 million years. Then a doomsday asteroid reshaped the world. We go on assignment with paleontologist and National Geographic Explorer Tyler Lyson to witness the collapse of the dinosaur dynasty. Then we follow the birds and mammals that survived the apocalypse and adapted to thrive, a story revealed in one of the most extraordinary fossil finds in recent memory.
$6 per student; chaperones, teachers and adults are not charged.
60% discount for schools with free and reduced lunch percentages at or above 60%.
One adult chaperone is required for every 10 students.
Please register for your event a minimum of two weeks in advance.
Final payment of the invoice is due 30 days after the event date.
The Seattle Symphony is unable to cover transportation costs.
This fund opportunity is for Grades K-12 King County Schools
The Curiosity Pass program from 4Culture reimburses King County public school districts for the cost of field trip bus transportation to arts, science, heritage and historic preservation programs delivered by eligible community partners.
For more information about the National Geographic Live Student Matinees, please contact NGstudent@benaroyahall.org.
The Arakawa Foundation proudly supports the Seattle Symphony’s Youth Education Partnerships. Additional support is provided by Delta Air Lines.
The Seattle Symphony’s Family, School & Community programs are supported by 4Culture, ArtsFund, the Merriman-Ross Family, and individual contributions to the Seattle Symphony Annual Fund.
Free or reduced cost access is supported by 4Culture.
