Museum to tap into adults’ love of science
Brewing beer, the fun of fungi and the surprising importance of decomposition will take over Science Museum Oklahoma on Aug. 17 during the museum’s adultsonly, 21 and older night.
“SMO 21: Fermentation, Fungi and Decomposition” will be from 6:30 to 10 p.m. Aug. 17 at the museum, 2020 Remington Place.
The evening will include the opportunity to sample and learn about the science behind fermented beverages and foods from COOP Ale Works, Big Oak Kombucha and Scissortale Provisions, a hands-on look at different mushrooms with Earthwise Mycology, the chance to taste and learn about cheeses from American Cheese Society Certified Cheese Professionals from Whole Foods Market, as well as take-home science for guests — from swabbing cellphones to see what is growing on the gadgets to a limited number of soil collection kits from the University of Oklahoma’s Natural Products Discovery Group Citizen Science Soil Collection Program.
“Decay is something that we might not think of often, and when we do, it is often in a negative manner — but it doesn’t need to be,” said Clint Stone, vice president of programs for Science Museum of Oklahoma. “Fungi and bacteria reveal what an amazing world we live in, so we’re celebrating decomposition and those things that come along with it at this SMO 21 with a come-and-go look at process of making beer, creating fuel from goat poop and more fun, interactive experiences.”
In addition to hands-on activities, the event will also include an expert panel discussion at 8:30 p.m. in the museum’s auditorium.
“We’ll hear from a chemist focusing on products derived from fungus, a funeral services professional, a brewer and a representative of deadCenter Film — we’ll explore fungi and decomposition from the promise of new medicines and what happens to our own bodies after our last breath to beer’s rich history, mushrooms in film and pop culture, and even zombie-ism,” Stone said.
The full museum will be open during SMO 21, giving guests the opportunity to check out permanent exhibits like CurioCity, Big Game Theory and Light Minded. In addition to themed activities, the museum’s cafe will be open with a cash bar, themed drinks and numerous entree and snack options.
Tickets for SMO 21 are $21 in advance and $25 on the day of the event, and are available online, in person during regular museum hours and over the phone. Tickets include all activities and access to the entire museum. Guests are encouraged to purchase tickets in advance as admission is limited.
Those purchasing tickets at the door should check SMO’s website for updates regarding ticket availability and arrive no later than 7:30 p.m. There will be no ticket sales after 7:30 p.m., and no outside food or beverage will be permitted.
SMO 21, the museum’s adultsonly, after-hours program for ages 21 and up, is a chance for adults to explore SMO without children in tow. For more information about S MO 21 or to buy tickets, gotowww.science museum ok.org/smo21 or call 602-3760.