And how much longer a story has science
Before she must put out the light on the children
And tell them the rest of the story is dreaming?
-Robert Frost
"Did you know that electricity moves so quickly it can zip seven times around the world in the
time it takes to snap your finger? You would if you'd come under the enthusiastic and highly
informative tutelage of Zap Woman (a.k.a. Sarah Salerno Thomas)(and her lively theatrical
presentation on the marvels of electricity) at the MIT Museum."
Beth Campbell
Boston Globe
Zap! is an interactive performance which uses theater, poetry, and a wide array of props
to introduce children to the amazing world of electricity. Children learn electrical safety
through the heroics of Zap! Girl, played by an audience volunteer who is transformed into a
costumed superhero. She is joined by her trusty tiger for interviews and demonstrations on
the Good Afternoon, America and Lifestyles of the Speedy and Heroic shows.
Click on links to view video clips. Concepts such as atoms, electrons, circuits, and conductors
are conveyed with a hands-on, easy-to-understand method. A child—assuming the role of a
professor—defines atoms and electrons, then leads the children in a
game
that illustrates how electricity is made from them. An authority on the speed of
electricity—another audience member—wins BIG money for sharing his or
her expertise. And a fine speller
is also a winner for guessing the five-syllable word spelled at lightning speed.
The production gives children the opportunity to complete a circuit and
predict
whether objects will be conductors or nonconductors. The show closes with a question
and answer period. Suggestions for interdisciplinary follow-up activities are available.
Recommended for ages 6-12. Running time: approx. 50 min.
"The children were intrigued by your creative and imaginative props, and were delighted that
they could participate in the entire performance... Many parents told us that their children
talked about Zap! for days... We will highly recommend you to other schools looking for an "electrifying" performer/educator."
Piney Kesting-Handly, former Cultural Enrichment Committee Co-Chair
Kingsley Montessori School
Boston MA
"You provided an exciting, entertaining and informational program in which everyone was engaged. Parents
came up after the program expressing their appreciation for this wonderful introduction to the world of
electricity. We had a wide range of ages and you were able to interact successfully with everyone and
involve them in the presentation."
Jane Malmberg, Asst. Supervisor, Children's Dept.
Newton Free Library
Newton, MA
"Your production was first-rate. Our audience loved it. Especially good is your intense interaction
with children. You are one of the most skillful presenters I have ever encountered."
Marcia Conroy, former Education Coordinator
M.I.T. Museum
Cambridge, MA
