Circus science

The Waseca Public Library hosted the Circus Science Spectacular by Steve Russell and Kobi Shaw the evening of Monday, June 12.

Many young kids were encouraged to learn about science through different circus techniques, including juggling and prestidigitation–the trick of making things seem to disappear. While tossing juggling pins and providing other intriguing entertainment, Russell and Shaw explained the science behind their moves, including Isaac Newton’s First Law of Motion (also known as inertia), the scientific law of gravity, and centripetal force.

Many volunteers were called into service as it was explained how water stays in a bucket even when it is spun upside down, how lying on a bed of hundreds of nails can be less painful than pushing on a single point, and how force makes water and soap chips into foam that looks like whipped cream on a pie.

Russell and Shaw are a husband and wife who both graduated from Clown College (more specifically, the Ringling Brothers). At one point, both were teachers. Russell taught at the Ringling Brothers and Barnum and Bailey Clown College while Shaw used circus arts to help teach elementary students.

The two have performed since 1996, previously under the name of Capable Hands as a comedy juggling duo. They have been featured on the Tonight Show, Live with Regis and Kelly, Ellen, and have even appeared on TEDx as speakers.

Their mix of scientific teaching and circus experience helped them put on quite the show at the Waseca Public Library. As they ended their presentation, they reminded everyone how important science is in everyday life.

“Remember kids, always keep asking questions,” Shaw said. “And never stop learning.”