Science Backstage
A joint program of Science is Elementary and Theatreworks Silicon Valley
Science Backstage introduces children and their parents to the science of theater via an innovative partnership between TheatreWorks and Science is Elementary. Students begin their experience backstage where they witness aspects of science in action. They then conduct small group, hands-on experiments where they truly explore and understand the science. In addition to providing critical exposure to science and art, this program brings in audiences new to both organizations, introducing them to the power of arts and sciences in our shared community.
The initial pilot, subtitled “Simple Machines That Run the Show”, included 27 students aged 8-10 from across Silicon Valley. Students witnessed curtains fly in and out, pulleys move props across the stage, and ramps and wheels usher in large, heavy scenery. In the lobby, students lifted heavy objects in three ways: using pulleys, using wheels of different sizes, and using ramps of varying steepness. Students experienced, and articulated, the simple machine trade-off: simple machines allow us to use less force to move objects, but require using that force over a longer distance.
“This event was by far one of the best enrichment programs I’ve taken my daughter to in a long time. She learned a great deal about basic physics concepts in an engaging, fun, and creative way. Even I, who took physics in high school and college, found myself relearning physics in a much more meaningful way than I had ever been taught before.”
We look forward to continuing this in-person program when we are allowed to return to the theater!
