CLEVELAND, Ohio — Playhouse Square is adding traveling exhibitions to its portfolio of entertainment offerings. First up is “Mummies of the World: The Exhibition,” opening Sept. 23 at The Corner Gallery, the district’s new exhibition space located in the former Cowell & Hubbard restaurant.
“Mummies of the World is one of the most popular traveling exhibitions in North America, and we are thrilled to host it at Playhouse Square in The Corner Gallery,” said Playhouse Square Senior Vice President of Programming David Greene in a press release. “We are excited that this exhibit will allow us to further activate the Playhouse Square District and give guests – both new and returning – different, exciting and memorable experiences when they come and visit.”
“Mummies of the World” is described as the largest exhibition of real mummies and related artifacts ever assembled. Previous stops in Miami, St. Louis and Hartford featured the mummified remains of 40 humans and animals, though the exhibition’s producer, World Heritage Exhibitions, says content may vary by market. The collection includes mummies from Europe, South America and Ancient Egypt. Artifact displays provide a window into these ancient civilizations, while multimedia exhibits illustrate how modern science plays a role in unlocking their mysteries.
“We say that ‘inside every mummy is a story waiting to be told’ and Mummies of the World tells thousands of years of captivating history,” said John Norman, President of World Heritage Exhibitions. “Visitors to the exhibition are in for a fascinating journey highlighted by real stories of real people. Throughout this exhibition, we really get to know these individuals and families, who, in many cases, were everyday people just like you and me. It’s that common humanity which truly connects us and brings history alive, creating a unique learning experience for visitors or all ages.”
In its announcement, Playhouse Square cautioned the show might not be suitable for younger children and acknowledged there are differing cultural and religious views on the display of deceased individuals. “Mummies of the World: The Exhibition” will run Thursday-Sunday through at least January at The Corner Gallery at 1305 Euclid Ave. Tickets, ranging in price from $10 for students to $24.95 for adults, are available now at playhousesquare.org/mummies or by calling 216-241-6000.
The new venue, along with the upcoming opening of Fresh Garden Café in the former Dynomite Burgers kiosk in U.S. Bank Plaza, is part of an effort to liven up the city’s theater district. Included in that is the free outdoor concert by Andy Grammar and new marquee lighting ceremony on Sept. 28.
“Between our incredible line-up of performances in our theaters to our fantastic eateries and the addition of these new venues and special events, the Playhouse Square District will be brimming with energy, and we are excited to welcome everyone to take part in these experiences,” Playhouse Square President & CEO Craig Hassall said.