Unlike traditional science demonstrations, our premium shows combine theatrical storytelling, character performance, and educational content. We don’t just show cool science—we create immersive experiences that make the science memorable and meaningful.

Our lead presenter is Benjamin Segal, an experienced performer with over 25 years of stage experience and more than 15 years in STEM education. Benjamin is a certified physics teacher and has worked at the Flint Children’s Museum and Adler Planetarium.

Learn more about us here

We primarily serve Chicago and its northern and western suburbs, but we’re happy to travel to Milwaukee, Rockford, Joliet, and Michigan City areas, especially for larger events. Contact us for specific location availability.

Travel fee zones are as follows:

• Within 15 miles of Des Plaines, IL – no additional charge
• 16-30 linear miles from Des Plaines, IL – $25 travel charge
• 31-50 linear miles from Des Plaines, IL – $50 travel charge
• 51+ miles: Custom quote, please contact us

Currently, our shows are designed for in-person experiences to maximize engagement and impact. However, we can discuss custom virtual options for special circumstances.

Our shows are adaptable to different age groups and venues:

• Corporate/Adult events: 2 hours base, extendable
• Preschool ages (4-6): 20-25 minutes
• Elementary ages (7-9): 30-35 minutes
• Middle school ages (10-12): 40-45 minutes
• Teens/Family shows: 45-55 minutes

We have found that shorter shows with more demonstration and less explanation are more appropriate for a younger audience, while older kids are primed for more abstract concept discussion during the show to help them link concepts. We strive to always tailor our show to the audience’s zone of proximal development.

Ideally, we need an 8′ deep x 12′ wide performance area minimum for story shows, or a 10′ x 10′ footprint for the Carousel of Science, with ceiling height of at least 8 feet. We can adapt to different spaces—just let us know what you’re working with!

Some of our demonstrations work best indoors where we can control lighting and avoid wind. However, we do have modified versions of our shows that can work in certain outdoor settings. Other shows are ideal for an outdoor space. Contact us to discuss your venue.

Audience participation is a key element of our shows, but we never force anyone to participate. We typically ask for 3-8 volunteers depending on the length and format of the show.

Our shows are designed to be exciting but facility-friendly. We do not use any demonstrations that could damage floors, walls, or ceilings. We carry insurance that includes your venue as additionally insured. For the grand finale of Dr. Destructo’s show, we use confetti that is fully biodegradable and easy to clean up.

Pricing depends on the type of show, location, duration, and travel. At booking, we require a 50% deposit to hold the slot and start designing your show. As a starting point:

• School/library assemblies: from $400–$560
• Birthday/private events: from $350
• Corporate & museum activations: from $1000 for two hours, with half-hour and multi-performer options available

Check out our show options here. Ask us about custom quotes, nonprofit rates, or off-peak pricing!

For school assemblies and corporate events, we recommend booking at least 6-8 weeks in advance. Birthday parties and smaller events can often be accommodated with 2-3 weeks’ notice, depending on availability and the flexibility of your event timeline. Our busiest season for birthday parties is summer, weekday daytime events peak in late fall and the spring, and evening blocks are often booked early for the holiday season.

Cancellations with more than 14 days’ notice receive a full refund minus a $50 administrative fee. Cancellations with 7-14 days’ notice receive a 50% refund. Cancellations with less than 7 days’ notice are non-refundable, but we will work with you to reschedule if possible.

Yes, we require a 50% deposit to secure your private booking, with the remaining balance due on the day of the event.

For schools and libraries, we accept purchase orders. Invoices are typically due Net 30 after the event unless otherwise required.

For school shows, we offer optional teacher guides with curriculum connections and follow-up activities. For birthday parties, we can provide simple take-home experiment cards for guests.

We bring all our own demonstration equipment. We do need access to standard electrical outlets and prefer a space where lights can be dimmed, though this is not absolutely required.