Mind reading, floating in thin air, a head without a body — is it magic or science - or perhaps a little of both? Magic: The Science of Illusion explores basic science concepts used in a set of custom-made illusions and shows how these science concepts relate to our everyday lives. In the exhibit, visitors can learn how magicians use psychology, physics, math, engineering and the art of performance to create complex and visually stunning effects. Top

ILLUSIONS: MAGIC IS MORE THAN A SIMPLE TRICK

While science seeks to explain the wonders of the world, magicians use some of the same forces and principles to mystify us and to do the impossible.

Within the MAGIC exhibition, visitors can explore the science and art of visual illusions from two perspectives: the point-of-view of the audience and then, backstage, from that of a magician's apprentice who helps create the illusion for other visitors. Each of the custom-designed and unique illusions is performed on video by renowned professional magicians as well as live by other museum guests. Each illusion was carefully designed and selected so that no staging used in modern magic shows will be revealed. Top

As magician's apprentices, visitors will learn the science behind each of these illusions. But all will not be revealed. Before they leave the backstage area, visitors will have a chance to be baffled again. A second video clip shows magicians performing other versions of the same illusion—tricks that can't possibly be done the way they have just witnessed. The four illusions include:

The Amazing Living Head — Introduced by humorous magicians Penn & Teller, see a human head kept alive in an unusual science lab. But this is no corpse's head—this head can talk, wink and giggle! Visitors will explore the mystery backstage and have a chance to lose their own head!

The Light and Heavy Chest — A leather box is easy to carry until—ZAP!—the elegant magician Jade says the magic words. Suddenly, the box seems to weigh a ton! Backstage, visitors will learn the secret of this miraculous transformation.

The Magic of Mind — Stare into the knowing eyes of a mind-reader! Even though the mysterious mentalist Max Maven speaks to visitors from a pre-recorded video, all thoughts are transparent to him. Backstage, discover how magicians like Maven know what people are thinking before they do!

The Rising Chair — Sit in a chair that rises through thin air with only the magical energy of Goldfinger & Dove. Backstage, visitors will learn the techniques of escaping gravity's hold used in this unique illusion. Top

MAGIC HAPPENS DURING WEEKENDS AT MOSI!

Live magic shows between 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sat and Sun
Magicians will perform* close-up illusions and tricks in front of MAGIC: The Science of Illusion.
*Times and availability are subject to change. Top

MAGIC Press Release
MAGIC Fact Sheet
MAGIC Media Advisory

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MOSI Magical Admission*

• Adult $23.95
• Child $19.95
• Seniors $21.95
• Members FREE!

*Pricing includes admission to MOSI exhibit galleries, Kids in Charge!, Magic: The Science of Illusion, and one standard IMAX Dome Theatre film. Call MOSI Reservations at (813) 987-6000 to purchase.

Effective 3/22/2008 through 5/26/2008

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