Hot Off The Press (Release): 'Star Trek' Geeks, Prepare To Faint

The Franklin Institute, in its ongoing effort to become the center of the nerd universe, has both Captain Sulu AND Captain Sisko visiting this summer in connection with its "Star Trek: The Exhibition" display. The press release:

The Franklin Institute presents two extraordinary events this summer in support of its current summer exhibitions, STAR TREK: THE EXHIBITION and RACE: Are We So Different?. On July 31, “A Conversation with Avery Brooks and Samuel Delany” followed by “An Evening with Star Trek’s George Takei” on August 20.

On Friday, July 31 Rutgers professor and captain of “Deep Space Nine” Avery Brooks shares the stage with iconic African-American science fiction author and Temple professor Samuel Delany. The two men, known for testing boundaries and barriers within their work, will explore race, science fiction and other themes in a wide-ranging and fascinating dialogue moderated by Betty Lawrence. Admission to “A Conversation with Avery Brooks and Samuel Delany” is $5.00 for public and members are free.

A few weeks later, The Franklin Institute welcomes Star Trek’s own George Takei. Best known for his portrayal of Mr. Sulu in the acclaimed television and film series Star Trek, George Takei visits The Franklin Institute on Thursday, August 20 for one special evening to talk Star Trek, meet fans, sign autographs and take photos. Tickets to “An Evening with George Takei”are $25.00 for public ($20.00 for members) and include a Q & A with George Takei followed by a meet and greet; a glossy photo and evening admission (after 5pm) to STAR TREK: THE EXHIBITION. To purchase tickets in advance for either event, please call 215-448.1254.

Produced by Premier Exhibitions, Inc. and licensed from CBS Consumer Products, STAR TREK: THE EXHIBITION is a 12,500 square foot interactive exhibition containing the world’s most comprehensive collection of authentic Star Trek ships, costumes and props from over 40 years of Star Trek. Making its East Coast debut at The Franklin Institute, the Exhibition runs through September 20, 2009. Also at The Franklin Institute this summer, Race: Are We So Different? an exhibit that encourages visitors to explore the science, history, and everyday impact of race and racism. From the scientific understanding that humankind cannot be divided into ‘races’ to how American history, economic interest and popular culture have played a role in shaping our understanding of race, Race: Are We So Different creates a compelling opportunity to explore one of the most controversial topics in American culture today.

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