Space 2000: Another Look at Science Fiction
As one millennium ends and another begins, the Museum of Natural History is taking a look at how we have imagined the future over the past 70 years.
Space 2000 is an exhibit about science fiction. It features more than 400 models, toys, collectibles and memorabilia. The exhibit runs from Dec. 1 to Jan. 9 at the museum, 1747 Summer St., Halifax.
Three generations have had their own science fiction celebrities, including Buck Rogers, Spock and Jar Jar Binks. Space 2000 will beam up some of these heroes and their sci-fi treasures. One of the most interesting and favourite collectibles is the toy tin robot. Over the years, robots have been portrayed as almost human and as both good and evil. In Space 2000, visitors will see a 1960s metal robot, as well as more than 30 plastic robots from the last three decades.
Ray guns like the Buck Rogers XZ-38 Disintegrator Atomic Pistol, circa 1935, and Hans Solo's Laser Pistol, circa 1977, are guaranteed to spark a memory for anyone who grew up saving the universe.
"A menacing collection of action figures, movie posters, comics, sci-fi paraphernalia and fantastic model spaceships will have kids from ages seven to 70 on an intergalactic journey down memory lane," said John Kemp, museum designer and sci-fi collector. "Older sci-fi toys are difficult to obtain, mostly because some were never sold in Canada."
The exhibit also includes a fleet of spaceships and action figures made from scratch by members of the Nova Scotia Science Fiction Model Builders Group. Look for the Star Wars-inspired Millennium Falcon, as well as X- and Y-Wings. Some models have even been autographed by David Prowse, the 'real' Darth Vader. Visitors can also view a two-metre long USS Enterprise from Star Trek.
Admission is free and food bank donations are encouraged. A number of Space 2000 programs are offered, including a free Meet the Modellers session on Saturday, Dec. 4, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Also, there are 'kit bashing' workshops on Sunday, Dec. 5, and Tuesday, Dec. 28. Both run from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Cost to attend the workshop is $5, materials provided. The workshop is suitable for ages six and older. Pre-register at 902-424-3563. The museum's general information telephone number is 902-424-7353.
Space 2000 brings you some of the most vibrant components of our sci-fi pop culture, as well as reminders of some of the treasures once discovered under the Christmas tree...batteries not included.
NOTE TO EDITORS: Two exhibit photographs, of the Millennium Falcon and a robot, are available; contact Communications Nova Scotia by telephone at 902-424-4492 or e-mail [email protected] .