Museum After Dark Takes Guests “Across the Universe”

When the sun goes down and the Denver Museum of Nature & Science revs up for its annual Museum After Dark fundraiser, guests know they’re in for a unique and fun-filled experience—hors d’oeuvres, live music and dancing in the Atrium, dinner among the multitude of galleries and a great silent auction—even an additional After Dark Soiree. But with this year’s “Across the Universe” theme, the evening was definitely a stellar affair. You might say it was “out of this world.”

On Friday, Nov. 8, DMNS planners pulled out all the stops to take guests on a planets-and-constellations journey without leaving the museum. Aerial performers and a super-sized telescope greeted them at the museum’s west entrance, and “Star Wars” Imperial Stormtroopers, music and additional futuristic characters guided the way through the venue’s permanent Space Odyssey area into a lively reception for 600. No speeches or formal program at this event—instead, guests were treated to a silent auction of earthly delights (chaired by Lisa Levin Appel), plus universally tasty food and intergalactic décor. String-focused Spinphony fired up the reception with lively music as the crowd socialized and prepared for a delicious sit-down dinner served among the museum’s galleries. Event chairs John and Ginny Freyer, and DMNS President and CEO George Sparks graciously visited with guests throughout the evening.

(l to r) DMNS President and CEO George Sparks, event chairs Ginny and John Freyer, and Bridget Coughlin, DMNS VP of strategic partnerships and programs and adjunct curator

After the last bite was savored, guests were invited to continue the evening at the 3rd Annual Young Professionals “After Dark Soiree” featuring tidbits, beverages and desserts, and dancing to The Fab Four and Digital Pocket till 1 a.m. Tickets were available for $50 per person for those who didn’t attend Museum After Dark.

The event is geared toward students and education—100 percent of the funds raised go toward providing educational programming that seeks to inspire young minds to think, learn and grow through science. Donations also support activities such as scholarships, onsite classes, labs and tours, and teacher professional development—“helping ensure that every child in our community has access to world-class science opportunities” writes a DMNS rep. For more information about the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, please visit www.dmns.org.