What is it like to go to a STEMmersive show? Each STEMmersive show simulates a fantastical voyage through a different world of science -- whether out in space, under the sea, or even backwards in time!
The experience is divided into two parts. The first half is a free-roaming “town square” of activities, where audience members visit a number of stations to complete various missions. These missions prepare the audience for their pending scientific voyage. For instance, in BLAST OFF! (to space) The Show, these activities include a rocket launching station, a research reading nook, and an alien drawing challenge.
The second half of the experience is the voyage itself -- a multimedia performance incorporating music, lights, projection art, puppetry and physical comedy. Audience members are invited inside the “voyage vehicle” – a 25 foot inflatable planetarium dome that will simulate the journey into the scientific world of the show. This part of the experience will be guided by performers acting as voyage captains, and include lots of exciting twists and turns! Once the journey is completed, the audience exits the vehicle and is encouraged to take selfies with some of the props used throughout the show.
What is the ideal age range for each show? Our experiences are recommended for ages 3-10 and their adults.
Are the shows wheelchair accessible? Yes! The inflatable dome is wheelchair accessible, and chairs can be placed inside for anyone who needs it. All other seats inside the dome are cushions placed on the floor.
How many people can attend a show at one time? We are limited by the capacity inside of the inflatable dome, which is approximately 40 people. We are willing to book more than one show in the same day to accommodate more folks!
How long are the shows? The entire experience lasts around 50-60 minutes. This includes around 20 minutes of town square activities, followed by the 30 minute voyage performance inside of the inflatable dome.
Once the performance inside the dome starts, can people still enter/exit? We recommend that once the performance begins inside the dome, there is no late seating. However, if anyone needs to exit the dome at any time, they can be easily ushered out and safely “returned to home base”. However, they will not be able to return after exiting.
FOR BOOKING:
How big does my space need to be to fit a STEMmersive show? The inflatable dome needs a space that is at least 30’ by 30’, with ceilings as high as 15’. The “town square” of activities is more flexible and can be modified to fit into a variety of spaces, including a theater lobby or classroom. Ideally, both the inflatable dome and the activity stations could fit in the same room! Thinking you don’t have enough space? Never fear! You could always partner with other spaces in your community to host the show – like school gymnasiums, indoor sports fields or basketball courts, museums with large rooms, theaters with large stages, large dance studios, and more!
Can any of the shows take place outdoors? Unfortunately, the inflatable dome does need to remain in an indoor location. It’s possible that the town square activities could take place outside, but we would need an alternate indoor plan for these activities in case of weather.
Other than a big enough space, what else would my venue/organization need to provide? At the minimum we will need access to electricity (a grounded, 3-prong outlet). For the town square activities to run smoothly, a few tables and a few venue staff members to assist are much appreciated. We can work with you to make the best plan for your venue!
How many people travel with STEMmersive shows? Two to three people, depending on the show and venue.
How much time does it take to set up and break down? The experience needs a minimum of 3-4 hours to set up, and a minimum of 2-3 hours to break down. If it’s at all possible to set up the experience the day before the performance begins, that would be ideal! It gives us time to test all equipment and make any necessary adjustments to the new space.
Are there any additional workshops or activities that accompany the shows? Yes! All performers are also teaching artists, and can provide various workshops in storytelling, puppetry, and music-making. In addition, BLAST OFF! (to space) The Show has its own unique workshop -- “BLAST OFF! Astronaut Training” is an interactive storytelling program that can act as a precursor to the experience. This in-person OR virtual program will have kids up on their feet as they go through a mock astronaut training, complete with physical exercises, a drawing challenge, history lessons highlighting achievements by women in space, and an interactive reading of Mae Among the Stars by Roda Ahmed. This workshop can be booked in conjunction with the show or as a stand alone program!