PORTLAND, Maine — A 15,000-square-foot exhibition space to accommodate a science “edutainment” center is nearing completion at 68 Commercial St., on Portland’s waterfront.
Formally named the Portland Science Center, the museum will bring interactive educational exhibits related to topics in science and biology. According to Joe Gold, from the The Gold Group, the Massachusetts firm that’s creating and managing this new space, the Portland Science Center will typically feature 125 to 250 objects or specimens.
Gold said that the idea for the Portland Science Center came to him after visiting Portland with his wife in January. They were both looking for something to do and found that the only place that was open was the Portland Museum of Art.
“It’s a wonderful museum, but there wasn’t really anything geared toward science or history,” said Gold. “Being in the business, we felt like it would be a great opportunity to bring world-class exhibitions to Portland.”
By combining entertainment and education, The Gold Group hopes to establish the Portland Science Center as a family attraction, with adult tickets selling for $20 and children’s for $15.
While organizers are not ready to reveal the nature of the first exhibit until later this week, past exhibitions from the Gold Group have covered Egyptian mummies, prehistoric sea monsters, Vatican splendors and human anatomy. The Egyptian exhibit, called “Tutankhamun: The Golden King and Great Pharaohs,” featured artifacts representing 2,000 years of Egyptian history.
“All of these exhibitions that tour all over the world have not yet had the opportunity to come to Maine,” said Gold. “Exhibitions require at least 10,000 square feet and theatrical lighting, so we created that environment.”
“The Portland Science Center is a welcome and unique addition to the many great destination attractions we have in Portland,” said Portland Mayor Mike Brennan. “With its world-class exhibitions and commitment to working with area schools, businesses and nonprofits, the Portland Science Center will be a robust addition to our community.”
Last week, the Portland Science Center hosted a career fair, which according to Gold drew a strong turnout. Six people applied to be assistant manager, while roughly 40 people applied for customer service positions. Gold said that he’s looking for people who care about learning and will enhance the visitor experience with their enthusiasm.
Emmie Noel, a science enthusiast who lives in Portland, said that she’s excited about the addition of a dynamic science center to the city’s cultural offerings.
“We’re so close to the ocean and therefore so closely linked to the marine biology and ecology of our area,” said Noel. “This new center will serve as a hub for locals and tourists alike, giving us insight into how science plays an integral role in our city.”
Gold told The Forecaster that people will be amazed by what they see at the Portland Science Center and that the first exhibition is slated to open by the end of June.
“We hope the center is embraced by the public and the educational community, as a resource that can be used for learning,” said Gold. “These are wonders of the world that many people haven’t seen before.”