Get swept away in an evening of artistic adventure as the Appleton’s artwork springs to life.
When something’s a success, you don’t change it except to make it better. When the third annual “Magical Night at the Museum” unfolds on April 14, attendees may be reminded of some delightful moments from the last two years but should be prepared for even more unexpected delights this time around.
People of all ages fell in love with the movie A Night at the Museum, and this event captures the best of that film. Upon arrival, attendees are given a “book of enchantment” that leads them to the various interactive art pieces, much like a miniature scavenger hunt. Then, they’ll witness some of the Appleton’s finest works of art come to life, thanks to the talents of actors from the Ocala Civic Theatre and the College of Central Florida’s theatre department.
“The actors will interpret some of the characters in the artwork, and guests get to interact with them,” says Hollis Mutch, museum educator.
“We also took our famous painting, ‘The Shepherdess’ by William-Adolphe Bouguereau and had it turned into 5,000 stickers,” she adds. “Attendees get to help recreate the painting by putting their stickers in place, so it’s almost like a mosaic, and slowly, over the evening, the work will appear before your eyes.”
Some 200 pre-made fairy houses and gnome homes will await the artistic touches of guests who can paint and decorate them to take home.
Speaking of fairies, you’ll likely encounter one or two as you meander through the courtyard. Climb aboard the unicorn-drawn limousine carriage for a ride around the fountain, and don’t be surprised to see mermaids frolicking in the water there.
Magical Night at the Museum is a fundraiser with an emphasis on fun for the whole family and guests of all ages. There’s also an educational component to the evening, which serves as a fanciful introduction for those not familiar with the Appleton. Proceeds from the event help fund scholarships for museum programs, such as classes and summer camps for youth and young artists.
Mark Your Calendars! Magical Night at the Museum, April 14 from 6-9pm. A family ticket package, good for two adults and up to three children is $35 for Appleton members and $50 for nonmembers. If you buy a family museum membership ($60 for one year), the family package prices drops to $20. Single tickets are $10 for members and $15 for nonmembers. Learn more at appletonmuseum.org or call (352) 291-4455.
