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Lorraine -

You may be interested to talk with someone who was involved in the creation
or original operation of Science City in Kansas City.  (For example, Steve
Snyder at the Franklin)

When Science City opened, it was staffed by "interactors" who I believe were
for the most part professional actors.  The concept was that they would
provide engaging script-based interactive experiences with the public about
the science in the exhibits.  The exhibits were designed more as a theater
set than as traditional stand-alone interactives.   

By the time I worked there in 2005, the interactor staff had been severely
reduced and mostly replaced by science educators who had more science and
less theater background, although  some interactors made the transition to
the new education department (and were excellent educators). 

I believe that the enormous staffing requirements of the original concept
pretty much doomed the budget, and that's why the shift happened.  

I hope that is helpful.  It might be a bit tangential to what you're doing,
or it might be an example of how far is too far in terms of economically
feasible blending of science education and theatre in a science center
setting.

Best
Cricket Brooks
General Manager
Dialog in the Dark Kansas City
Premier Exhibitions

-----Original Message-----
From: Informal Science Education Network
[mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Lorraine Kenny
Sent: Monday, December 08, 2008 12:06 PM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: ASTC proposal - Working with professional actors to develop
exciting science learning oppertunities

ISEN-ASTC-L is a service of the Association of Science-Technology Centers
Incorporated, a worldwide network of science museums and related
institutions.
****************************************************************************
*

Dear All 

 

I am trying to put together a session for next years ASTC Conference
linked to some work which we have been doing here in the UK at Thinktank
- Birmingham Science Museum. Over the last 3 years we have had links
with Birmingham Repertory Theatre which have allowed us to do joint
projects which aim to draw on the joint expertise within the two
organisations to develop and deliver some innovate science learning
experiences.  

This partnership has allowed us to;

*         Address difficult contemporary science issues

*         Reach new audiences 

*         Learn from experts outside the science centre field

*         Attract external funding 

 

Do you or your organisation have experience of working with professional
theatre groups? If so would you be prepared to share your experiences -
good or bad? 

 

If you are interested in collaborating on a session please get in touch
by Fri 12th December.  

 

Lorraine Kenny 

Outreach Manager and Acting Education Manager

Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum 

[log in to unmask] <mailto:[log in to unmask]> 

00 44 121 202 2278 

Website: www.thinktank.ac <http://www.thinktank.ac/> 

<mailto:[log in to unmask]> 
 
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