Dr Bunhead's Adult Show or The Science of Cocktails?

Mar 10 2006 By Nicholas Craig, The Journal

Brought up to equate science with spluttering Bunsen burners, sulphur and petri dishes, I am amazed at the cornucopia of delights on offer at Newcastle's Centre for Life for the Science Festival next week.

I'll be there to see the "eye-popping" science show that explains the Big Bang theory in four minutes and includes Houdini-like exploits involving a coffin and bolts of electricity.

I'd also like to witness the scientific proof of Beckham's genius at scoring from a free kick - all in 3D - then go on a Red Kite Safari before putting myself forward for FameLab to be the new face of science.

It is genuinely exciting to come across a nine-day event in Newcastle which has been able to attract big names, offer fast-paced, fascinating activities, and appeal to all ages.

The Newcastle Science Festival sounds great fun, full of energy and life from beginning to end.

Fun, if we are honest, is the missing ingredient from all too many arts and culture-based events, in which we shuffle obediently past exhibits, attempt to listen to experts and never feel really involved until we reach the café or shop.

Science tries harder. With events such as the festival it sets out to interest and enthuse people.

There are now science communicators who focus on explaining what is going on behind the theories, and motivating non-scientists. Perhaps artists should take a leaf out of their book.

The festival coincides with National Science Week. Our region is well ahead of the game in the newest technologies, yet many of us are unaware of what is being achieved.

The centres of excellence, Institute of Genetics and Science City would do well to invest more in clearly communicating their aims and achievements to all of us.

Bioscience, nanotechnology and process industries are a growing part of our economy and will need talented, trained workforces, ideally creating local job opportunities.

We need to understand and appreciate the extraordinary progress being made on our doorstep to pass on the news to potential employees, funders and partners.

Science, as the Newcastle festival will show, embraces our day-to-day lives as well as tackling the biggest questions.

My own imponderable is whether to opt for Dr Bunhead's Adult Show or tackle The Science of Cocktails on Saturday.