POLLINATORS! The Musical

Headed downtown to the Central PA Festival of the Arts in July? Be sure to catch a performance of POLLINATORS! The Musical, a 30-minute musical puppet show about the unique lifestyles and habits of some of our native pollinators. Created and presented by Centre County Master Gardeners in collaboration with the Center for Pollinator Research, this award-winning show’s toe-tapping tunes and fascinating facts can be enjoyed by audiences of all ages. Performances will be on Wednesday, July 8 (10:30 am, 1 pm) and Friday, July 10 (10:30 am, 2:30 pm) at State College Presbyterian Church, 132 W. Beaver Ave. Whether you’re eight or eighty, you’ll leave with a song in your heart and a new appreciation for our pollinator partners.

Introduction
With this presentation, our goal was to introduce critical concepts of pollinator behavior and life cycles, using the medium of musical theatre to present information in an entertaining and memorable way that is accessible to all learning styles.

Methods
Through relatable, humorous, and scientifically accurate songs and dialogue, audience members learn to appreciate rather than to fear our pollinator friends. They are encouraged to consider supporting pollinators in their own home and school gardens.

Results
Designed to appeal to all ages, viewers of this show have ranged from top pollinator researchers across the globe to local children, teachers, and families.