Paragon Entertainment : Thinktank MiniBrum

23 May 2019

Kids from Birmingham and beyond are in for a treat this May Half Term with the opening of MiniBrum, the new interactive gallery for under 8s at Thinktank Science Museum. MiniBrum is a mini city created with children, for children and about children - a space where kids are encouraged to take charge of their own learning and to think like scientists: to question, solve problems and be creative. Made possible by a grant from the Inspiring Science Fund and many other generous partners, the gallery aims to help children develop confidence and interest in STEM subjects through interactive play and exploration.

Paragon Creative provided a complete turnkey solution for MiniBrum, delivering the design, production and installation of the gallery over a 17-month period. We worked with Thinktank and its under 8s audience to 'co-produce' the gallery, meaning big decisions about its activities and appearance were made by over 800 schoolchildren from across Birmingham. Based on their input, we made a gallery with distinct play zones for the home, the city centre, the park, a construction site and different modes of urban transport. Each zone features fun setworks in the shapes of buildings, vehicles, caves and more - perfect for imaginative roleplay and den-building! - plus tactile interactive exhibits, a construction-themed playframe and a designated sensory garden for babies. Those familiar with Birmingham will recognise some of the citys famous landmarks in MiniBrum, including a mini Selfridges Building and Old Joe Clock Tower.

Thinktanks MiniBrum gallery adds to a growing list of world-class science exhibitions completed by Paragon Creative over the last few years, including at the Science Museum, Eureka! The National Childrens Museum, and Newcastle Centre for Life.

Image © Birmingham Museums Trust