Blumenthal Arts Announces Extension of Must-See Immersive Experience SPACE EXPLORERS: THE INFINITE

(October 17, 2024) Charlotte, NC – Blumenthal Arts announced today that, due to overwhelming demand, Space Explorers: THE INFINITE will extend through the end of the year. The captivating immersive experience that launched Blumenthal Arts’ new Blume Studios will play through January 5, 2025. A new block of tickets is on sale now at blumestudios.com.

 

The breathtaking space journey inspired by NASA missions aboard the International Space Station is the first of its kind in the new Blume Studios, Blumenthal Arts’ new creative hub for the Queen City and beyond where art, technology, and community converge.

 

 

“Thanks to the overwhelmingly popular response to Space Explorers: THE INFINITE, we’re lucky to be able to hold on to the show a little longer” said Blumenthal Arts President and CEO Tom Gabbard. “Our guest surveys have shown exceptionally high scores that we only see periodically for favorites like Hamilton. Guests typically only have time to see 25–30% of the content available in the exhibit per visit, so they can return and have an entirely different experience. Extending through January 5 makes it available over the holidays. Since the show has only been in a handful of cities, people can share with visiting family and friends just how cool Charlotte is.” 

 

THE INFINITE has been significant in welcoming new faces to the arts center. For 37% of ticket buyers, THE INFINITE represents their first time at a Blumenthal Arts event.

 

Some of those new faces belong to Charlotte area students. As part of its presentation of THE INFINITE, Blumenthal Arts is actively raising funds to bring every sixth grade student in CMS to the experience at no cost. School field trips will serve more than 14,000 students from more than 60 schools, including the CMS sixth grade. Supporting educational materials highlight connections between the arts, science, and technology, and highlight STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, and math) related career choices.

 

 

Blumenthal’s Vice President of Education, Andie Maloney, said, “Blume Studios and THE INFINITE provide a new universe of wonder for students. The moment they step into the building, you can hear the gasps and buzz of excitement. The field trip experience connects to every aspect of curriculum and is indicative of the power of creative experiences for inspired learning—it is the magic of STEAM integration. We are proud to welcome more than 14,000 students from across the greater Charlotte region to our field trip experience, including the entire CMS sixth grade. Our hope is to inspire every student to reach for the moon!”

 

As a 501 (c) (3) not-for-profit, ticket revenue only covers a portion of Blumenthal’s service to the community. Donations can be made here to help bring every sixth grade CMS student to experience this life-changing field trip at no cost. 

 

In addition to the ticketed immersive experience, Blume Studios features works of art by visiting and local artists that are free and open to the public, in addition to a café and bar. A shop, Blume Studios MKT, has been a popular feature, with merchandise designed by local artists including Linda Joy Weinstein, Melissa Stutts, Chris Hood, Joanna Henry, Jen Hill, Zulynette, Marcus Kiser, Krystallin Loudermilk, Ali Loncar, Elizabeth Palmisano, and Docklands Design. More than 15% of MKT’s total sales to date are attributed to local artists.

 

 

SPACE EXPLORERS: THE INFINITE
Stage 1 at Blume Studios

Now extended through January 5, 2025
Tickets start at $29.95

 

Step into the extraordinary world of SPACE EXPLORERS: THE INFINITE, inspired by NASA missions, and join the esteemed few who have experienced space firsthand. Through the transformative lens of immersive VR, you'll be transported 250 miles above Earth into the International Space Station. This voyage offers more than just mere observation; it immerses you in the essence of space exploration without ever leaving the ground. From exclusive encounters with astronauts to serene moments of Earth-gazing, every sensation deepens your connection to the universe and your place within it. It's more than just a simple expedition, it's an emotional odyssey that leaves a lasting impression—it stays with you.

 

Over 32,000 square feet of a former Charlotte Pipe & Foundry warehouse have been transformed to host Space Explorers: THE INFINITE and so much more. Filled with awe-inspiring art installations, a bar and cafe, and a market selling art and goods from local makers, Stage 1 at Blume Studios is an artistic playground ready for you to explore.

 

Tickets are on sale now at blumestudios.com. 
 

For photos of THE INFINITE, click here. For video, click here.

 

Follow @blumenthalarts for updates and exciting announcements.

 

 

 

 

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ABOUT BLUMENTHAL ARTS
Blumenthal Arts serves the Carolinas as a leading cultural, entertainment, and education not-for-profit. For more information, call (704) 372-1000 or visit BlumenthalArts.org. Blumenthal Arts receives support from the Infusion Fund and the North Carolina Arts Council. Generous support is also provided by PNC Bank, sponsor of the PNC Broadway Lights series, and Equitable, sponsor of the Equitable Bravo Series.

 

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