Science and theater: a study of the performing Arts as a strategy for Science communication in museums

Abstract:

Theater has been used as a strategy for science education and communication in museums. In this article, we analyze two theatrical activities offered by the Museum of Science and Life, located at Duque de Caxias (RJ). Based on interviews and questionnaires, we found that the visitors consulted are familiar with the theater, although they are not frequent visitors. Those with less access to cultural programs, previous involvement with the topics addressed and whose children engaged in the activity tended to receive it positively. When the activity did not attract the child in the group or the expectation it raised was different from that expected, the tendency was dissatisfaction. Regardless of the opinions gathered, we observed that the activities aroused public reactions that would be difficult to provoke by traditional museum activities. Thus, we advocate the interaction between science and theater as a differentiated strategy for science education and communication.

Keywords:
Science and theater; Science museum; Science communication; Science education