Curiosity Lab by DRI, a live event series that brings science storytelling to Las Vegas and Reno
Las Vegas (January 23, 2025) – DRI announces the launch of a series of community-based events in Las Vegas and Reno that celebrate how science shapes our lives, fuels creativity, and deepens our understanding of the world by underscoring the transformative power of curiosity and knowledge. Curiosity Lab by DRI will feature DRI scientists and other guests to address some of the world’s most urgent concerns while also telling the tale of what it means to live in Nevada on the front lines of a changing climate.
“We are excited to launch a statewide science storytelling series,” said DRI President Kumud Acharya. “Curiosity Lab by DRI will address some of our most challenging environmental concerns, exploring environmental research, personal narratives, and climate solutions. We invite Southern and Northern Nevadans to join us for an unforgettable multimedia and storytelling experience that highlights the innovative research and solutions being implemented to address our pressing climate issues.”
In 2025, Curiosity Lab by DRI will hold events in Downtown Las Vegas at the Vegas Theatre Company located in the Arts District and DRI’s scenic Reno campus in the Stout conference room. Doors open at 6 pm and the evening begins at 6:30 pm. Topics include:
February 26 – Reno, Chasing Snow – Stories of Wonder, Tradition, and the Science of Winter
Join us for an evening of captivating stories that explore our connection to winter. From the wonder of snowfall to the traditions it inspires, and the science that unravels its mysteries, ‘Chasing Snow’ celebrates the many ways winter shapes our lives. Through diverse perspectives, we’ll uncover tales of discovery, creativity, and the enduring allure of the cold season. Come ready to be inspired.
DRI Storyteller – Anne Heggli, Ph.D., will weave together her upbringing on the American River, her family’s history in snow monitoring, and her research in the Snake Range in Eastern Nevada (partially funded by the Long Now Foundation).
March 12 – Las Vegas, Roots of Wonder: Following Curiosity into the Natural World
Join us for an evening of storytelling that delves into the roots of curiosity and its enduring connection to the natural world. From personal journeys of discovery to family traditions that spark a lifelong fascination with nature, ‘Roots of Wonder’ invites you to explore how our curiosity shapes our understanding of the world around us and inspires creativity in unexpected ways.
DRI storyteller – Sean McKenna, Ph.D., Executive Director, Division of Hydrologic Sciencesat DRI, will tell the story of how curiosity about the natural world and its effects on humans seems to be a trait handed down from generation to generation.
May 14 – Las Vegas, Under the Sun: Stories of Heat and Humanity in a Changing World
Join us for an evening of storytelling that explores the impact of extreme heat on the human body and the communities most vulnerable to its effects. ‘Under the Sun’ will delve into the science of heat, the life-and-death risks it presents, and the stories of resilience from those who bear the greatest burden in a warming world.
DRI Storyteller – Patrick Hurbain, Ph.D., Epidemiologist, will tell the story of the human body under the stress of extreme heat.
July 30 – Reno, From Curiosity to Creation: Listen, Learn, Create
Join us for an evening of inspiration and creativity at Curiosity Lab by DRI’s official Artown event “From Curiosity to Creation: Listen, Learn, Create.” Discover the intersection of art and science through lightning talks from innovative artists and scientists, then unleash your own creativity with provided materials. The evening culminates in a pop-up gallery, where you can explore the collective creations of the community. Come ready to listen, learn, and create!
Featuring Fil Corbitt, producer of The Wind podcast. Fil will be telling the story of using sound to explore place. His signature sound recordings around Nevada and the world bring the natural world to listeners, allowing them to use just their sense of hearing to experience the environment.
August 20 – Las Vegas, Dual Lens: Art and Science in Dialogue
Join us for an inspiring evening where we explore the fascinating intersection of art and science. This event will spotlight how creativity and curiosity transcend disciplines, showcasing artists who draw inspiration from scientific inquiry and scientists who incorporate artistic practices into their work. Discover how these unique perspectives enrich our understanding of the world and ignite imagination.
DRI Storyteller – Tiffany Pereira, an Ecologist and Botanist at DRI who is also a scientific illustrator. She will be joined by Jessica Oreck, filmmaker and founder of the Office of Collecting and Design, who is also a botanist and ecologist.
October 22 – Reno, The View from Here: Stories of Perspective and Discovery
Join us for an evening of storytelling that explores the world through new perspectives and the discoveries they inspire. ‘The View from Here’ invites you to see how technology, curiosity, and innovation allow us to view our surroundings in ways never before possible. From scientific breakthroughs to personal insights, these stories reveal how shifting our perspective can unlock a deeper understanding of the world around us.
DRI Storyteller – Brad Sion, Ph.D., will tell the story of how using technology to look at our environment reveals information that may have been hiding in plain sight.
November 5 – Las Vegas, The Possible Unknown: Stories about Exploring the Unreachable
Join us for an evening of storytelling that delves into the mysteries of exploring what once seemed unreachable. ‘The Possible Unknown’ highlights stories of curiosity, innovation, and determination that open doors to new frontiers—whether through groundbreaking technology, scientific discovery, or personal journeys. Discover how the impossible becomes possible and the unknown becomes accessible to all.
DRI Storyteller – Megan Stueve will tell a story that is still unfolding. Megan is documenting hiking trails throughout state parks in Nevada using 3D technology. The result is an immersive and accessible digital space where visitors can explore Nevada hiking trails even if hiking those trails is physically impossible.
Curiosity Lab by DRI is made possible through support from our Community Partner Nevada Humanities.
Ticket Types and Pricing:
$15 – Adults
$10 – Students & Educators
Curiosity Lab by DRI is designed for the science curious, 13 and over. Tickets may be purchased online.
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About DRI
We are Nevada’s non-profit research institute, founded in 1959 to empower experts to focus on science that matters. We work with communities across the state –and the world– to address their most pressing scientific questions. We’re proud that our scientists continuously produce solutions that better human and environmental health.
Scientists at DRI are encouraged to follow their research interests across the traditional boundaries of scientific fields, collaborating across DRI and with scientists worldwide. All faculty support their own research through grants, bringing in nearly $5 to the Nevada economy for every $1 of state funds received. With more than 600 scientists, engineers, students, and staff across our Reno and Las Vegas campuses, we have conducted more than $47 million in sponsored research focused on improving peoples’ lives.
At DRI, science isn’t merely academic – it’s the key to future-proofing our communities and building a better world. For more information, please visit www.dri.edu.
Media Contact:
DRI
Detra Page
702.591.3786
Detra.Page@dri.edu
