The Manassas Museum has started a quarterly program called “Coffee with the Curator.” For this event the Curator pulls objects from storage that have never
been on public view before for an up-close-and-personal presentation to program attendees. After a light breakfast (separate from the objects of course) the Curator gives a brief presentation on the objects and then invites everyone to come forward for a
closer look. Participants get to wear white gloves (this seems to be the best part for some of them!) and carefully handle the objects, see how they work, look at the small details of each, etc. The result is usually a very spirited discussion about one
or two of the pieces used in the program. Everyone seems to enjoy it and we’ve had some very positive feedback. We limit the seating to 20 so everyone can really participate. We usually get about 15 signed up – which we consider a success since the program
is held in the middle of the week in the morning. Not your usual time for an adult program. It also allows us to use the collection in a non-traditional way and get pieces out of storage and before the public that might otherwise just sit on the shelves.
I think the draw here is a non-traditional use of the collection that allows that visitor to touch – something that is a no-no in the galleries.
Mary Helen Dellinger, Curator
Manassas Museum, Virginia
From: Museum discussion list [mailto:[log in to unmask]]
On Behalf Of Sarah Coles
Sent: Friday, January 09, 2015 10:15 AM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: [MUSEUM-L] Adult Programs
Hello all,
I am the education director at a combination science and history museum and we are looking to increase our adult programming at the museum. We currently offer a few adult programs, including a science on tap event which is starting to
do well. In the past we have had lecture series, but have found that attendance has severely dropped for these events in the past two years. So, with that in mind I am trying to re-invigorate our adult audience, and perhaps bring some new programs into play.
Has anyone had great success with any of your adult programs? If so, what were they, and what do you think drew the audience in?
Thank you for your input,
Sarah Coles
Education Director
Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History
Main: 361-826-4667
Office: 361-826-4661
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