Live Shows

Show Schedule

Works Theater

Science is always "under construction" in the Works Theater: A live showcase of dazzling demonstrations in a one-of-a-kind industrial setting. Taste a frozen marshmallow, see the glow of molten metal, or feel the zap of electricity. Watch chemical reactions in action, or launch a fiery rocket into space. It’s all in the Works!

*Please note: Some Works Theater programs may contain water-vapor fog, strobe lighting, and loud sounds.

Planning to visit us? Check out today's show schedule.

Shows are available for group bookings Monday through Friday. Add a show for just $2 per person!

Talk with us about which shows are available on your selected date. Register early for best selection!

To schedule a visit for your group, call 412.237.3410.

Earth & Friends

Soar through the Solar System in our Works Theater! Early learners will explore space chemistry as they visit Earth and its "pals" (the other major planets) and learn why Earth has the right stuff for life!

Sponsored by: Society for Analytical Chemists of Pittsburgh; Spectroscopy Society of Pittsburgh

For Teachers:

Content themes: Early Learners, Physical Science, Astronomy
Grades: PreK & Kindergarten
Capacity: 30 Students

Freeze!

Learn the states of matter and see the chilling effects of super-cold liquid nitrogen. This ever-popular set of experiments demonstrates just how “cool” solids, liquids, and gasses can be!

For Teachers:

Content Themes: Physical Science
Grades: 1–6
Capacity: 75 Students

The Energy Show!

In this energetic show, learn how energy is harnessed to power our civilization. Explore renewable and non-renewable alternatives, while learning about technologies and careers needed to sustain energy consumption. During the show, learn how to identify energy forms and examples of energy.

For Teachers:

Content Themes: Physical Science, Natural Science
Grades: 4-8
Capacity: 150 Students

Powered by:

NEW! Reactions in Action (Opens Oct. 26)

Check out our chemi-cool chemistry show full of elements to surprise. Learn about our atomic family with color-changing experiments and learn how green chemistry is helping chemists reduce, reuse, and recycle. See reactions in action!

Program made possible with support from the Society for Analytical Chemists of Pittsburgh and the Spectroscopy Society of Pittsburgh.

For Teachers:

Content Themes: Chemistry
Grades: 7–8
Capacity: 150 Students

High Voltage

This electrifying show features our Tesla Coil and its one-million volt display of light and sound. Presentation includes static charging equipment, magnets, and other concepts of electrical charge.

For Teachers:

Content Themes: Physical Science & Technology
Grades: 7–12
Capacity: 150 Students

Presenting sponsor:

On Fire!

Discover the science behind fire while understanding the powerful combination of heat, oxygen, and fuel. Explosive demonstrations bring to life the science of forest fires, rockets, and fireworks. Do not try this at home!

Program made possible with support from the Society for Analytical Chemists of Pittsburgh and the Spectroscopy Society of Pittsburgh

For Teachers:

Content Themes: Chemistry, Energy
Grade Level: 5-6, 7-8
Capacity: 75 Students

Library Shows

These fan (and staff!) favorites are offered sporadically throughout the year and are not generally available for group booking.

Illumination Sensation

Discover the dazzling science of light! This illuminating show features optics, lasers, and things that glow.

Frankenscience

Journey through Mary Shelly’s chilling tale and help bring Frankenstein’s monster to life! Shocking experiments on our Van de Graaff generator will spark your imagination as you learn you how science fiction inspires science fact.