ISEN-ASTC-L is a service of the Association of Science-Technology Centers Incorporated, a worldwide network of science museums and related institutions. ***************************************************************************** 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]> Disclaimer The information in this email is confidential. 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