On Thursday 26 July, Melbourne Museum’s special evening event SmartBar returns due to popular demand and this time visitors will delve into the deepest depths of the human mind.

Syphilis, phobia-inducing spiders, mind games and straitjackets will be some of the highlights of the 18+ event, where some of the Museum’s most peculiar objects and stories come out after dark.

“Visitors will have plenty to stimulate their minds at this unique event”, said Georgie Meyer, Public Programs Manager, Melbourne Museum. “SmartBar is the perfect opportunity for adults to explore our award winning exhibitions in a different light and in a relaxed, kid-free environment.”

“After the popularity of our first SmartBar earlier this year, we’re expecting another sell-out and my advice to anyone wanting to come, is to book early as we only have limited tickets.”

Visitors can enjoy talks by Museum Victoria experts that will take them on a journey through the complex world of the human brain, the neurological side-effects of syphilis and some interesting psych experiments. Life drawing classes will be held throughout the night and a collection of live creepy crawlies will be on hand to aid discussion about phobias.

The Human Body and The Mind: Enter the Labyrinth exhibitions will be open on the night, providing a glimpse into some of the Museum’s world renowned Psychiatric Services Collection objects, including an isolation cell, straitjackets and locked gloves. Visitors will also be able to explore the ways artists make sense of dreams, trauma, dementia and schizophrenia in the Cunningham Dax Art Collection.

Popular DJ Andrew McClelland will spinning tunes on the night and visitors can help compile a playlist, featuring songs about or with the words brain, mind and eyes.

While activities on the night focus on the Mind and Human Body exhibitions, all of the Museum’s Science and Life Galleries will be open, including Dinosaur Walk and Bugs Alive!

SmartBar is an exciting new addition to Melbourne nightlife and forms part of a growing range of adult programs presented at Melbourne Museum. 

Food and drinks will be available for purchase on the night.

SmartBar at Melbourne Museum
Date:    Thursday 26 July 2012
Time:   6pm –10pm
Cost:    Adults $18, Concession $16. Adults 18+ only