StrongWomen Science Donegal rural + island tour

SWS is an exciting fast-paced performance with two women scientists turned circus performers. (Aoife Raleigh is an electronic engineer, Maria Corcoran an environmental scientist.) They reveal the scientific secrets behind their astounding tricks including centre of gravity (acrobatics), angular momentum (hula hoop), centripetal force (poi buckets) and non-Newtonian fluids (clown custard act). The performance is followed by hands-on workshops and discussions with marine biologist John Barrett.

StrongWomen Science doesn’t only illustrate scientific facts. It seeks to promote enquiry, conversation and accessibility in science, making it open to all, in particular girls. It looks at the worth of failure, the need for evidence and the power of teamwork, shared by science and circus. Post-show conversation and discussion is encouraged, with the circus scientists talking with the audience and answering their questions supported by an additional scientist from the community.

We will tour to five rural Donegal locations in Spring 2023 includingTory Island, Arranmore, Moville and Gotahork.

SWS is specifically targeted at increasing rural girls’ engagement with STEM. Rural girls are doubly hindered from science engagement by gender and geographical location.

SWS was developed on and with the Achill Island community, in open rehearsals under a local Young Director (aged 12).