The Atomic Circus: Evidence-Based Chemistry Demonstration Theater
Department or Administrative Unit
COLLEGE OF EDUCATION AND PROFESSIONAL STUDIES
Document Type
Article
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Publication Date
2-24-2026
Journal
Journal of Chemical Education
Abstract
The Atomic Circus is a research-based chemistry demonstration theater designed to engage elementary audiences and their families through narrative, music, and dance. Guided by design principles of age-appropriate conceptual framing, narrative storytelling, and theatrical metaphor, the show integrates live demonstrations within a three-act performance that follows a “Novice” character who learns alongside the audience. A mixed-methods evaluation, including pre- and postshow surveys and family interviews, revealed strong affective engagement and knowledge gains around physical and chemical change. These outcomes reflect the broader trends identified in recent reviews of science shows, where enthusiasm and modest knowledge gains are consistently observed, but systematic documentation remains limited. By transparently documenting its design, logistics, and evaluation, The Atomic Circus contributes to the small but growing evidence base on science theater and encourages other practitioners to share systematic accounts that connect creative performance with educational theory.
Recommended Citation
Queen, Matt; Obery, Amanda; Clark, Ted; Cabell, Martha; and Hogan, Shelly, "The Atomic Circus: Evidence-Based Chemistry Demonstration Theater" (2026). All Faculty Scholarship for the College of Education and Professional Studies. 435.
https://digitalcommons.cwu.edu/cepsfac/435