TELUS World of Science – Calgary is excited to learn that it recently earned a national 2010 CASCADE award from  the Canadian Association of Science Centres (CASC) for best exhibit or show at a large institution. TELUS World of Science collaborated with science centres in Vancouver, Montreal and Winnipeg to develop a planetarium show called Galileo LIVE! The show, which featured a live actor playing Galileo, helped celebrate the United Nation’s International Year of Astronomy.

“It’s a real honour to be recognized this way by our peers,” says TELUS World of Science – Calgary President and CEO Jennifer Martin. “It’s a testament to the quality and commitment of the staff here at TELUS World of Science, and it’s a great way to celebrate our past accomplishments and anticipate the great new exhibits that will be unveiled at the new facility.”

Galileo LIVE! was written by TELUS World of Science astronomer Alan Dyer. A planetarium sky show that takes audiences back in time to meet one of the world’s greatest scientists, Galileo LIVE! brought live acting, multimedia effects and the planetarium sky together on the Discovery Dome Theatre’s giant screen. All the while, the voice of Galileo’s daughter recalls the touching and historic story of how their telescope revealed a vast new universe.

The awards, which recognize outstanding achievements in science and technology engagement by its members, were announced at CASC’s 8th annual Awards Gala held in Montréal, Québec. Nominations for Best Onsite Program, Best Outreach Program, Best Exhibit or Show – Large Institution, and Best Exhibit or Show – Small Institution were adjudicated by the CASC 2010  Awards Jury.

The CASC builds capacity for its members to inspire a creative and prosperous Canada through science and technology engagement.  More than eight million people, nearly a quarter of Canada’s population, visit member science centres each year. Forty-five organisations comprise the full and developing membership of the association, including science centres and museums, children’s museums, nature centres, planetariums and outreach organisations.  Affiliate members include organisations such as consultants, suppliers, government and industry organisations that support the interests and mandate of the association.