Opening 15 December 2012, Scienceworks’ new exhibition Carnival of Science explores some of the attractions found at popular theme parks and carnivals around the world, and gives a glimpse into the science that makes them work.

“Science may not immediately come to mind when thinking of carnivals, but at the heart of their appeal are ingenuous applications of physics, psychology, mathematics and biology,” said Vera Gin, Science Program Manager, Museum Victoria.

 Amongst the more than 30 carnival icons to get a science treatment in the exhibition are:

• a bed of nails,
• the illusionary ‘Pepper’s Ghost’,
• the human cannonball,
• a mirror maze,
• the strength tester.

“Scienceworks is all about exploring the ordinary and extraordinary aspects of our everyday lives, and unravelling the science behind-the-scenes. With Carnival of Science, we’re taking on the challenge of bringing to the surface the science behind the favourite attractions of a sideshow alley, without losing the mystery.

“What we’re offering in this exhibition is a combination of interactive fun and hands-on science which explores the ‘how and what’ of carnivals, circuses and fairgrounds.”

The Carnival of Science will also be open in time to celebrate a significant milestone for Scienceworks in 2013.

“Next year marks Scienceworks’ 21st birthday, and what better way to celebrate than a carnival all about science?” said Genevieve Fahey, Manager of Scienceworks.

“Not just that, but 2013 also marks our largest exhibition redevelopment in Scienceworks’ history, with the future-focused Think Ahead slated to open in December 2013.”

Carnival of Science opens to the public on Saturday 15 December. Entry to the exhibition is $16.00 for adults, $5.00 for concession and $4.50 for child (inclusive of Scienceworks general entry).