The Perot Museum of Nature and Science marked its first birthday Saturday with vertical dancing on the concrete walls of the Museum cube, birthday cake, fireworks and even a hip-hip-hooray led by Ross Perot. Beneath the festivities was a heartfelt message repeated over and over – thank you to all who played a role in a remarkable inaugural year.
Acknowledging the success of the first year, Perot Museum board chair Carolyn Perot Rathjen noted that year two is even brighter with two traveling exhibitions coming in 2014 – World’s Largest Dinosaur, scheduled to open early April. Also, a major partnership involving a renowned scientific organization will be unveiled in early 2014, and popular programs like spring break and summer camps, adult-only Social Science events and more are returning in year two.
Highlights of Saturday’s event included Ross Perot leading his favorite hip-hip-hooray cheer as an intro to a riveting performance by BANDALOOP, whose strength and artistry kept visitors watching in awe. BANDALOOP, who performed at last year’s opening day ceremonies, is an internationally renowned vertical movement dance troupe that seamlessly weaves dynamic physicality, intricate choreography, and the art of climbing to turn the dance floor on its side.
Following BANDALOOP’S performance, visitors sang the traditional “happy birthday” song as the cake’s single candle was blown out, fireworks shot from the rooftop, and cupcakes were enjoyed by all. Providing a lively musical backdrop to the chilly morning was the Barack Obama Male Leadership Academy Jazz Ensemble.
The Perot Museum is located at 2201 N. Field Street in Dallas, Texas. For more information, visit perotmuseum.org or call 214.428-5555.