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Unexpected Delays In Guatemala Now Resolved For Mid-July Opening of MAYA: The Great Jaguar Rises Exhibition

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Exhibition Producers & Guatemalan Officials signal release of Cultural Treasures to Kansas City

Kansas City, MO – May 13, 2022 – Today, Union Station officials announced that unexpected delays with artifact releases have been resolved, clearing the way for a Mid-July opening of MAYA: The Exhibition in Union Station’s Bank of America Gallery.  Additionally, as the original opening of May 13th was postponed, tour negotiations have yielded a longer residency in Kansas City thru the end of 2022.

“Yesterday, Museums Partner – creators and producers of the much anticipated MAYA Exhibition – delivered outstanding news,” George Guastello, Union Station president and CEO, shared.  “Specifically, after weeks of unexpected administrative delays, releases are being expedited for the hundreds of original artifacts featured in this important presentation of Maya history, culture and contributions. While we were hopeful for this outcome, nothing was certain since the objects must have special permits to leave Guatemala.  Thus, this announcement is very welcome and will thrill the thousands of people who’ve already purchased tickets as well as the many school groups booking fall field trips.”

Presented by Bank of America, MAYA: The Exhibition at Union Station presents the story of a sophisticated civilization buried in the heart of the rainforest.  The mysteries of the Maya are revealed in brilliant fashion in this powerful presentation that ends with an intimate introduction to the millions of Maya who today carry on their traditions in language and lineage.  Many years in the making, this exhibition is currently only approved to travel to Kansas City and Union Station.

“The complexities of curating such a large and high-profile exhibition are many,” Peter Elsaesser, Museums Partner CEO, shared.  “Negotiations to bring together and tour priceless cultural artifacts often take years.  In fact, we’ve been working for over two years on this particular collection of Maya treasures.  Fortunately, everything is now being expedited so as to offer Kansas City audiences a truly historic opportunity to experience the fascinating and mysterious story of the Maya and their enduring contributions to our modern world.  Who knows if this chance will ever come around again.”

Significant time and expense has already been invested in preparation for this substantial MAYA exhibition.

“With the closing of our historic Auschwitz exhibition on March 20, our entire team pivoted quickly to transform the gallery specifically and impressively for the MAYA exhibit,” Jerry Baber, Union Station executive vice president and COO, said.  “Our Bank of America Gallery, as well as the entire complex, is ready and awaiting the arrival and installation of the artifacts.  And the diverse community of partners we’ve engaged is ready and excited to embrace and help promote this magnificent exhibition.”

Tickets to MAYA: The Exhibition are available on Union Station’s website and interested guests are encouraged to lock in reservations soon.  As well, over 2,000 guests who have already purchased tickets valid between May 13th thru mid-July are being contacted with options to reschedule.

TICKET PRICES*

Adult: $19.50
Child: $14.50
Member Adult & Child: $14
Groups: $10

*excludes per ticket Preservation Fee

Maya: The Great Jaguar Rises is produced by MuseumsPartner featuring important Pre-Columbian works of art in custody of Fundación La Ruta Maya in Guatemala, with the avail of the Ministerio de Cultura y Deportes de Guatemala.

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