NEW TRAVELING BILINGUAL STEAM EXHIBIT DEBUTS AT WHITAKER CENTER

The Questioneers: Read. Question. Think. PLAY! features diverse book characters who help children tackle science, math and art problems

Today, Whitaker Center for Science and the Arts launched a new traveling fully-bilingual exhibit, “The Questioneers: Read. Question. Think. PLAY!,” based on the best-selling book series The Questioneers written by Andrea Beaty and illustrated by David Roberts. The exhibit, locally presented by The GIANT Company, will be open to the community from February 9 – May 31, 2023.

In this interactive exhibit, kids can explore the world of writer Andrea Beaty's characters including architect Iggy Peck, artist Aaron Slater, future president Sofia Valdez, engineer Rosie Revere, and scientist Ada Twist. In a make-believe classroom setting, children will encounter questions about architecture, leadership engineering and science with the help of each character and learn about many different careers and professions available to them.

“We are always striving to give our guests, and especially children, a chance to explore, discover and stretch their minds with immersive Art and STEM experiences,” said Whitaker Center President and CEO Theodore N. Black .?“This interactive exhibit promotes personal empowerment, curiosity and perseverance which is all part of the learning process for children. In addition, we are thrilled that this exhibit demonstrates inclusivity as the characters represent different races, ethnicities, genders, and abilities in a meaningful way.”

There are more than 50 different experiences within the exhibit, allowing children and their families to build and launch airplanes, build suspension bridges, and create a plan to turn Mount Trashmore into Citizens Park.?As the characters run into challenges and face sometimes-failed experiments, children will learn more about determination and courage.

“We’re pleased to help bring this unique experience to families visiting the Whitaker Center, especially guests who love to learn through fun experiences,” said Jennifer Heinzen Krueger, vice president of team experience, The GIANT Company . “The Questioneers: Read. Question. Think. PLAY! exhibit is a perfect fit for us as it promotes STEAM and the power of innovation, while celebrating diversity, equity, and inclusion, all of which are deeply valued by The GIANT Company.”

“I am thrilled that the Whitaker Center has chosen to bring this first ever bilingual exhibit to Harrisburg,” stated Gloria Vázquez Merrick , executive director, Latino Hispanic American Community Center.?“Imagine all the children whose future career pathways will be stimulated through this culturally friendly hands-on exhibit. It’s terrific that they can learn about science and the arts in a way they might not learn otherwise at a young age and in their first language.”

To explore the Questioneers exhibit, locally presented by The GIANT Company and supported by UGI Utilities, Inc. and Meron Yemane & Renée Custer Yemane , purchase your tickets to Harsco Science Center here. The exhibit will be at the Whitaker Center from February 9 – May 31, 2023. Exhibit hours: Thursdays – Sundays from 9:30 am to 3 pm.