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Show Myths and legends featured in new planetarium show m ! '-4 ' f L - f I aw . j v Once upon a starry night, in the heart of the colorful Four Corners region, several friends gather around a campfire. After a day on Lake Powell, their gazes turn upward to the beauty of the night sky and the wonders of the universe. So begins "Once Upon a Starry Night." Hansen Planetarium's latest original star show production. A colorful production about the starlore and myths of many cultures, "Starry Night" is featured at Hansen Planetarium. 15 South State in Salt Lake City, through Dec. 31. In retelling the myths of many early cultures, "Once Upon a Starry Night" treats audiences to many special stories about the sky and stars. The program was made possible in part by a grant from the Utah Endowment for the Humanities and features original art and exciting special effects created by the Hansen Planetarium staff. Written by Planetarium Director Von Del Chamberlain, the show reflects his interest and expertise in Native American cosmology. Star legends of the Navajo, Kiowa, Paiute and Pawnee Indians are included along with stories from classical Greek mythology, the Pacific Islands, Finland, China, and Great Britain. University of Utah professors Margaret Mar-garet K. Brady and Geoffrey Aggeler served as consultants to the production. Ex-Utahn Merlin Olsen, well- known sports analyst and former professional and USU football star, is the show's main narrator. Other voices represent the many cultures portrayed in the show. " including Navajo. Kiowa. Finnish. Greek, and Pacific Island natives. "Man created stories and legends about the stars to explain the mysteries of the Earth and sky." explains Chamberlain. "Even though we now look at the universe from a more scientific perspective, the beauty and cultural identity of these star legends is still very important to us." During the month of November all scouts in uniform, and their families are invited to attend "Once Upon a Starry Night" at the discount price of only $1 per person. Groups of 15 or more should make reservations in advance at 535-7610. Other special events during the show's run include a Christmas star presentation and holiday music segment after evening shows in December. Show times are Monday-Friday at 11 a.m., 2, 4:30, and 7 p.m.; Saturday at 2, 4 :30, and 7 p.m. ; and Sunday at 2 and 4 :30 p.m. Admission is $3 for adults; $2.50 for students and senior citizens; and $2 for children under 12. Thursday evening's even-ing's 7 p.m. show is half price. Groups of 15 or more can make reservations for all regularly priced shows at a reduced rate by calling 535-7610 one week in advance. The Paiute Indian legend of the mountain sheep who was turned into the North Star is illustrated in a sculpture by Mark Brest van Kempen. |