Submitted by Timberland Regional Library
Librarians at the Tumwater and Tenino Timberland libraries have some end-of-year fun up their sleeves for children and their families.
Magician Jeff Evans will present Science Magic at both libraries on Tuesday, December 31. Evans will entertain at the Tumwater library at 11 a.m., and at the Tenino library at 2 p.m.
Evans will show how objects behave in a way that appears magical, then reveal the scientific reasons for the behaviors. When a borrowed dollar bill shrinks to miniature size, Evans discusses expansion and contraction. When a grownup’s ring is ground to pieces, it’s a demonstration of a simple electronic circuit gone wrong. Of course, everything is put right in the end and the helpers return to their seats as heroes.
During the interactive performance, children are exposed to the characteristics of solids, liquids, and gases. The properties of air pressure, static electricity, center of mass, and density are visually demonstrated. Some of the experiments can be duplicated at home.
Magic tricks can all be explained by science, says Evans. He has always been fascinated with science experiments and demonstrations. So, the idea of bringing science and magic together was a natural. His goal is to show kids that science is fun. In June, Evans received ParentMap magazine’s 2013 Golden Teddy Award for Best Live Entertainment. “He captures kids’ interest immediately,” and “He has such a great way of connecting with the kids,” said two parents.
The performances are being paid for by the libraries’ Friends of the Library groups. The Tumwater Timberland Library is located at 7023 New Market Street, Tumwater; telephone: (360) 943-7790. The Tenino Timberland Library is at 172 Central Avenue W, Tenino; telephone: (360) 264-2369. Call for more information or visit www.TRL.org.
