Real Mummies. Real Science. Real People.
KANSAS CITY — (April 19, 2017) Union Station officials today announced that nationally recognized Mummies of the World: The Exhibition will make its Kansas City debut in the Bank of America Gallery at Union Station on June 20, 2017.
Described as “fascinating, intriguing, and inspiring,” by NBC, “absolutely extraordinary,” by NPR and “a must see,” by FOX TV, Mummies of the World instills a sense of curiosity and wonder in each and every visitor. Having been visited by over 1.6 million people nationwide, Mummies of the World: The Exhibition is one of the most popular museum exhibitions traveling North America.
Inside every mummy is a story waiting to be told. Through modern science and technology, their secrets are now revealed. Mummies of the World tells the story of the mummies and mummification through state-of-the-art multimedia, hands-on interactive stations and cutting-edge 3-D animation taking visitors on a 4,500-year journey to explore the mummies’ history and origins as well as how they were created, both through natural and intentional practices.
“We say that ‘inside every mummy is a story waiting to be told’ and Mummies of the World tells thousands of years of captivating stories,” John Norman, president, Exhibitions International, said. “This exhibition has been one of the most successful exhibitions traveling in the United States, now having been visited by over 1.6 million people nationwide. A key piece of that success resides in our tremendous partners, the venues, from the California Science Center, to the Franklin Institute, Oregon Museum of Science & more. As we looked towards our Midwest premiere, we sought out a venue that holds the same type of clout in the industry. We are ecstatic to find such a welcoming home here at Union Station and are confident these real mummies from across the globe will enthrall the people of Kansas City. We certainly are excited to share their stories.”
Visitors will come face to face with the largest exhibition of real mummies and related artifacts ever assembled. The special exhibition provides a window into the lives of ancient people from every region of the world including Europe, South America and Ancient Egypt – offering unprecedented insights into past cultures and civilizations.
It highlights real advances in the scientific methods used to study mummies, including Computed Tomography (CT), ancient DNA analysis and radiocarbon dating, all of which allow researchers to learn about the lives, history, and cultures of the mummies. Who were they? Where did they come from? And what can they teach us?
“This exhibition is unique because it vividly showcases how science creates the vehicle that allows us to peek into the lives of ancient people from every region of the world,” Bob Regnier, chairman, Union Station Board of Directors, said. “We really get to know these individuals and families, who, in many cases, were everyday people just like you and me. It’s that common humanity which truly connects us and brings history alive, creating a unique learning experience for visitors or all ages.”
The exhibition features a group of fascinating mummies and artifacts on loan from 12 world-renowned museums, organizations and collections coming from 5 countries including:
The Baron Von Holz, a German nobleman found tucked away in the family crypt of a 14th century castle wearing his best leather boots
The Vac Mummies, a mummified family from Hungary believed to have died from tuberculosis
The Burns Collection, a group of medical mummies used to teach anatomy in the early 19th century
An Egyptian priest named Nes-Hor whom we have determined had arthritis and a broken left hip
Egyptian animal mummies including a falcon, a fish, a dog and a baby crocodile, many of which were deliberately preserved to accompany royals for eternity
MUMAB, the first replication of Egyptian mummification done on a body in 2800 years
“Visitors to the exhibition are in for a fascinating journey. Highlighted by real stories of real people – which are ultimately intriguing and would be more than enough to draw the crowds we anticipate – Mummies of the World presents so much more,” George Guastello, president and CEO of Union Station, said. “It’s the cutting edge science and technology that enabled researchers to actually write their stories. Union Station’s investment in science and technology, along with engineering and math is part of what is making Kansas City a world leader in STEM industry and careers. We are dedicated to fostering the best and brightest young minds and keeping them right here in our community to take advantage of these career opportunities. World-class exhibitions like Mummies of the World do just that. They engage young minds and spark a curiosity that ignites a passion and propels the next generation who will keep our business community thriving. For Union Station and our core mission, this exhibition is a perfect fit and we’re expecting a very enthusiastic response from our many audiences.”
A special and limited window for advance ticket savings is now open and runs through May 12th for Mummies of the World. During this period, Union Station Members receive a 48% discount and the general public receives a 20% discount on VIP Tickets. After this early sales window, VIP/Anytime ticket prices are $24.95. General Admission ticket prices are $19.95 for adults, $15.95 for children 3-12. Member pricing is $12.95. School Group pricing is $10.00. All other Groups of 15 or more are priced at $12.95. (Taxes and Fees not included)
Advance ticket reservations are recommended by visiting www.unionstation.org/MUMMIES or the Union Station Box Office. For more information about Group visits or how to become a Union Station Member, please call 816-460-2020 or visit UnionStation.org.
Images, Press Kits and B-Roll are available to media upon request.
Please email Michael Tritt at [email protected] or call 816-460-2278
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Union Station Kansas City — a 501(c)3 non-profit organization — is a 103-year-old historical landmark and celebrated civic asset renovated and reopened to the public in 1999. The organization — dedicated to science education, celebration of community and preservation of history — is home to Kansas City’s internationally-awarded Science City; the new Arvin Gottlieb Planetarium; the Regnier Extreme Screen Theatre; the popular Model Railroad Experience; H&R Block City Stage featuring live theater, and a selection of unique shops and restaurants. Union Station is also home to prominent area civic organizations and businesses, and regularly hosts world-class traveling exhibitions. Awarded “Top Banquet Facilities in KC” by KC Business Journal, the facility regularly hosts community events and private celebrations of all sizes. Visit www.unionstation.org for details. Also, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.
Exhibitions International (EI)—previously Arts and Exhibitions International, the world’s preeminent museum exhibition producer, was founded in 2003 by John Norman. Under Norman’s direction, the company was entrusted with the most valuable treasures on earth and at sea, including artifacts from the tomb of Tutankhamun (King Tut), relics from Cleopatra’s Royal Palace, Princess Diana’s Royal Wedding Gown, and the only authenticated pirate treasure in the world. These riches are the heart and soul of breathtaking museum experiences created by EI. Each unforgettable experience has mesmerized audiences at the finest art, science, and history museums in the world. More than 30 million people have attended Exhibitions International’s exhibitions since its inception in 2003.
Union Station Contact: Michael Tritt
C: 913.219.6890 [email protected]
Media Contact: Nancy Besa
C: 816.674.4775 [email protected]