Learning continues at The College of Idaho even in the midst of summer vacation, with the Whittenberger Planetarium set to host a number of shows this July about the mythology of the night sky.
Having already hosted successful shows during the month of June, the Planetarium’s events will continue in July with two dates of “Storytelling in the Planetarium,” which will feature the duo of Planetarium Director Amy Truksa and professional storyteller Jim Cogan telling a variety of stories about the constellations, planets, and moon from multiple mythologies from around the world. This regular event has featured stories passed down from Greek, Roman, German, Native American, Chinese, and Pacific Island mythologies. The shows will be held at 7:30 p.m. on both Friday, July 13 and Saturday, July 14, and at 2 p.m. on Saturday afternoon.
Cogan began his storytelling as a history teacher at Jefferson Junior High School in Caldwell in the late 1970s. After several years as a teacher and administrator in Ketchum, Idaho, Cogan became a professional bard, traveling throughout the U.S. as a highly acclaimed family programmer, entertainer and educator.
“I like that Jim selects stories from a variety of cultures from around the world because it helps communicate the universality of the concept of constellations and mythologies surrounding them,” Truksa said.
Truksa said the planetarium’s summer programs are a fun and unique way to learn more about the night sky, making any further summer experiences richer thanks to some basic astronomy background.
“It is family-friendly, unique, affordable, educational, and timely as summer is often a time that families go camping and have the opportunity for fantastic stargazing experiences,” Truksa said.
Tickets for the Storytelling shows cost $5 for children ages 4-17 and $8 for adults. Please no children under the age of 4. Reservations and payment are due in advance and can be purchased at www.collegeofidaho.edu/planetarium. Seats will be forfeited to walk-ins 10 minutes before show time. The planetarium is located in Boone Science Building near Jewett Auditorium at the corner of 20th Ave. and Fillmore St. in Caldwell.
For any questions regarding reservations, please contact Kinga Britschgi at [email protected] or at (208) 459-5211.