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Manship Theatre Launches 'Science Screen' Series with NASA Partnership

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  Published in Science and Technology on Wednesday, February 11th 2026 at 23:34 GMT by WAFB
      Locales: Louisiana, N/A, UNITED STATES

BATON ROUGE, La. (February 12th, 2026) - Manship Theatre is poised to become a hub for scientific exploration and inspiration with the launch of its groundbreaking 'Science Screen' series. This innovative program, born from a partnership between the beloved local theatre and NASA, seeks to bridge the gap between cinematic storytelling and real-world scientific principles, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields.

The series, announced earlier this week, isn't simply about showing science fiction films. It's a carefully curated experience, combining compelling narratives with insightful discussions led by leading experts - in this case, professionals directly involved in the very science depicted on screen. The inaugural event, set for February 19th, will showcase the critically acclaimed film Hidden Figures, a story that powerfully illustrates the vital contributions of African-American women mathematicians to NASA's early space program. Following the screening, attendees will have the unique opportunity to engage in a live Q&A session with Dr. Emily Johnson, a current NASA engineer.

This launch builds upon a growing national trend of utilizing popular media to demystify science and encourage broader participation in STEM. For years, educators have recognized the power of film and television to spark curiosity and make complex concepts more accessible. Manship Theatre's 'Science Screen' series elevates this approach by providing a platform for direct interaction with scientists and engineers, allowing the audience to ask questions, gain firsthand insights, and connect the dots between the fictional world portrayed on screen and the realities of scientific endeavor.

"We're really excited to be partnering with NASA to bring this unique program to our community," stated Melinda Smith, Executive Director of Manship Theatre. "We believe that art and science aren't mutually exclusive - they are both driven by creativity, problem-solving, and a desire to understand the world around us. This series is about celebrating that intersection."

The core mission of the 'Science Screen' series extends beyond mere entertainment. Smith emphasized the theatre's commitment to inspiring the next generation of scientists and engineers. With STEM fields facing ongoing workforce challenges, initiatives like this are crucial for cultivating interest and talent among young people. The series aims to show that science isn't an intimidating, inaccessible field reserved for geniuses, but a dynamic and rewarding pursuit open to anyone with curiosity and dedication.

The choice of Hidden Figures as the inaugural film is particularly significant. The film not only highlights the importance of STEM but also addresses issues of diversity and inclusion within the scientific community. By showcasing the stories of marginalized groups who overcame systemic barriers to achieve greatness, the series sends a powerful message that everyone has a place in STEM. It's a potent reminder that innovation thrives when diverse perspectives are valued and encouraged.

Looking ahead, Manship Theatre and NASA are planning a diverse range of films and expert speakers for future installments of the 'Science Screen' series. Potential topics include climate change, astrophysics, biomedical engineering, and the exploration of Mars. The theatre is also exploring opportunities to partner with local schools and universities to offer educational workshops and outreach programs in conjunction with the screenings.

Tickets for the February 19th event are $15 and are available for purchase online at [ manshiptheatre.org ]. Organizers anticipate strong demand and encourage interested individuals to secure their tickets in advance. This isn't just a movie night; it's an investment in the future of science, technology, and the imaginations of tomorrow's innovators. The series promises to be a shining example of how arts organizations can play a vital role in promoting STEM literacy and inspiring a lifelong love of learning.