Spark After Dark: Killer Psyche
Spark After Dark (18+)

Killer Psyche

October 11, 2024 | 6PM - Midnight

DATE

Friday October 11, 2024

WHEN

6:00 PM - Midnight

AGES

Adults only 18+
Must have valid photo ID

COST

General Admission $32.95

Members $10

THE SCIENCE OF CRIME: FORENSICS, PSYCHOLOGY, AND THE KILLER PSYCHE AT SPARK AFTER DARK!

Curious about what drives a criminal mind or how forensic science helps solve mysteries? Join us for Killer Psyche at Spark After Dark, where we explore the intersection of psychology, crime, and forensic science. Immerse yourself in fascinating talks, hands-on experiences, and thrilling performances that uncover the science behind crime. This 18+ event is perfect for those intrigued by the darker side of human behavior and the forensic techniques used to bring criminals to justice.

Important notice: Topics covered may be sensitive. Guests are encouraged to participate at their own comfort level.

Here’s what to expect at Spark After Dark (18+)Killer Psyche:

  • Forensic and Psychological Talks, see full list of talks below.
  • Think you have what it takes to become the ultimate crime aficionado? Test your knowledge on famous crimes and serial killers from pop culture during Villainous Minds Trivia Time hosted by Kylee Roman.
  • Put your forensic skills to the test with Escape City in an immersive crime scene investigation challenge. Solve a series of clues and riddles to unravel a thrilling mini mystery!
  • Watch gripping theatrical performance by Vertigo Theatre, in Interview with a Historic Killer, where actors reenact interviews with three notorious serial killers.
  • Feast on the delectable final meals of serial killers Gary Mark Gilmore and Ruth Snyder.
  • Try feature cocktails "Death in the Afternoon" and "Tell-Tale Heart".
  • Join the host of “The Ride Along” podcast for a live session featuring insights on the science of crime-solving and forensic investigations.
  • Be captivated with roaming acrobatic performances by performers from Le Cirque de la Nuit.
  • Master the art of realistic blood and gore in a Blood and Special Effects Workshop with a props and special effects artist from Vertigo Theatre.
  • Feeling a little squeamish? Engage with organizations like RESOLVE in Spark's Safe Space.
  • Dance the night away to the musical stylings of SieSie and Reyabstract from DJ nu_bounce and capture your night of thrills with a spin in the 360 Photo Booth!

And here's a little extra for Spark Members.

During Spark After Dark events, Spark Members get VIP treatment, with perks like free parking and a fantastic 15% discount at the Spark Eatery, Astronaut Ice Cream café, and the Spark Store!

Purchase a Spark Membership now and enjoy the wonders of science!

POST-MORTEM PARLOR TOUR

  • EXPERIENCES
  • ADULT TOUR

THE ART AND SCIENCE AFTER DEATH

What happens after death and how is science involved? On our next Spark after Dark, gather your courage to step behind the curtain and into the lab for an intimate view on how STEAM professionals work within the post-mortem realm. On our tour, you'll witness first-hand the incredible methods and techniques used to prepare, preserve, and display animal specimens. You'll even meet a mortician that will showcase the tools, chemicals, techniques and processes they utilize to prepare bodies for open casket funerals.

From an up close and personal walkthrough of the bone degreasing process used in the preparation of articulated skeletons, to a mesmerizing demonstration of the diaphonization process used to prepare and study delicate wet specimens, this tour will be a visceral experience like no other. To top off the tour, our friends from Pretty Dead Taxidermy are back, demonstrating the process they go through when bringing life back to mouse specimens by posing them in dynamic positions.

This vivid, immersive evening offers a rare glimpse into how science and artistry converge in the work that continues after death. Perfect for those seeking a thrilling and educational adventure!

What’s Included?

• One “Shot of Courage” specialty drink to kick off your tour experience, exclusive to tour guests.

• A guided 90 minute tour though our post mortem parlor spaces where you will go behind the scenes and experience demonstrations and presentations from a Mortician, Taxidermist, Biologist and Paleontologist- specialized in bone degreasing techniques.

• Exclusive access to our Postmortem Parlor Lounge before and after each tour.

• Admission to August Spark After Dark – Killer Psyche

• One “skip the line” complimentary feature cocktail drink ticket per guest upon arrival.

Disclaimer: Please note that the Post-Mortem Parlor Tour contains graphic content and discussions involving the preparation, preservation, and display of animal specimens and human cadavers. Attendees will be exposed to detailed descriptions and demonstrations of scientific processes related to death, including mortuary practices, taxidermy, and the handling of specimens for display or scientific research. During the tour, on display will be Mouse, Pig and Bird specimens, as well as fish and reptile specimens at various stages of tissue removal within the preparation process being presented. This program is not recommended for individuals who may be sensitive to the subjects of death, corpses, or animal dissections. All animals on display have been ethically sourced.

Schedule:

• 6:20 pm – 7:40 pm (SOLD OUT)

• 6:40 pm – 8:00 pm (SOLD OUT)

• 8:00 pm – 9:20 pm (Capacity 40 people)

• 8:20 pm – 9:40 pm (Capacity 40 people)

Tickets

General Admission - $69.50 per person (10% off for Members)

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FEATURED EXPERIENCES

  • LOCATION
  • STEVEN'S LAB

HEMATOLOGY LAB

Step into the Hematology Lab where we’ll spill the tea on blood science! From DNA to blood typing, you’ll uncover the mysteries hidden in your veins and reveal how these clues help crack cases wide open. Because science isn’t just in our blood, it is our blood!

In collaboration with Northern RNA.

  • LOCATION
  • INSPIRATION STAGE

VILLAINOUS MINDS TRIVIA TIME

From movie monsters to TV antiheroes, it's a night of fierce competition and brain-teasing fun for all trivia buffs and fans of the dark side of entertainment. Hosted by social media star, @therealkyleeroman.

  • LOCATION
  • CREATIVE KIDS MUSEUM

SPARK SAFE SPACE

Take a step back and learn about the support that exists in Calgary. This night is exploring topics of intense subject matter but we are not alone in preventing and recovering such tragedies. Unwind in the Creative Kids Museum to gather your thoughts and learn about the different support systems in Calgary.

  • LOCATION
  • BUILDING WIDE

LE CIRQUE DE LA NUIT

Le Cirque de la Nuit performers will captivate you as you explore the dark complexities of the human mind.

  • LOCATION
  • GALLERY 1

ESCAPE CITY

Escape City offers Calgary’s top escape adventures! Put your crime scene investigation skills to the test as you dive into a mini-mystery, cracking clues and solving riddles to uncover the criminal mind behind it all!

  • LOCATION
  • GALLERY 1

INTERVIEW WITH A HISTORIC KILLER

Utilizing direct verbatim interview materials from actual interviews, three actors perform the interviews of three well known serial killers, speaking in their own words, to provide insight into their minds and the psychopathic thought processes, as a live performance. To include Ted Bundy, Aileen Wournos, and Joseph DeAngelo.

  • LOCATION
  • FEATURE GALLERY SOUTH

THE RIDE ALONG (LIVE PODCAST)

Do you have questions for a retired homicide detective? Well, Dave Sweet may have the answer and is willing to share his unique perspectives on everything crime related. The Ride Along is a podcast meant to educate, inspire and empower people through the power of respectful storytelling while not leaving audiences with the heaviness some true crime podcasts carry. So, this Spark After Dark, join Dave as he tries to unravel your greatest mysteries in this one of a kind form.

  • LOCATION
  • GALLERY 1

SFX MAKEUP

Props and special effects creator from Vertigo Theatre, Nicole Logan, will guide fake blood and effects creation. Learn hands-on, how these effects are made and used when representing these effects on Vertigo’s stage. Ooey and gooey fun for all as you explore texture, colour, and use of materials provided, with guidance from experienced professionals.

  • LOCATION
  • ATRIUM

UNSOLVED CASE FILES

Put your detective skills to the test at the Unsolved Case Files booth for a chance to win one of their immersive murder mystery games! Count how many fingerprints are hidden at the scene with your trusty ultraviolet UV flashlight – closest to the correct answer, wins!

  • LOCATION
  • ATRIUM

LIVE DJ AND 360 PHOTO BOOTH

DJ collective, nu_bounce, is bringing the HEAT with two major DJs in the YYC music scene. Catch power duo and nu_bounce co-founders, Sie-Sie and Reyabstract, behind the desk spinning banger after banger, ranging in genres all around from future beats to untapped global sounds. You may need to take a breather after the night's touchy topics, but you'll definitely need a breather after dancing to their eclectic beats!

FEATURED TALKS AND SPEAKERS

  • PRESENTED BY
  • DAVE SWEET

PSYCHOLOGY OF THE CRIME SCENE

Join retired detective Dave Sweet as he unpacks the psychological twists in homicide investigations. From his insider lens, explore how psychology impacts detectives, families, witnesses, and perpetrators of Canada's most infamous crimes.

  • PRESENTED BY:
  • SASHA REID

KILLER INSIGHTS: THE SHIFTING PERSPECTIVES

Discover how our understanding of serial killers has evolved from monstrous to complex through advances in psychology, criminology, and sociology, shaping our response to extreme violence.

  • PRESENTED BY:
  • SIMPLY COUNSELLING SERVICES

UNRAVELLING OUR TRUE CRIME OBSESSION

True Crime delves into the dark sides of humanity, stirring fear and fascination alike. Discover with a Registered Psychologist why we are so drawn to these chilling tales and who is most captivated by them.

  • PRESENTED BY:
  • JACK GRINHAUS

WHAT WE KNOW TO INFORM

How has criminal profiling been developed and utilized in hunting serial killers? How has that informed and supported the live theatre productions done at the Vertigo Theatre? Through an exploration of its history, as well as anecdotes that help exemplify its uses both in real world and performances, gain a keener understanding of how the examination of the patterns of a killer’s mind, help in both the potential capturing or preventing of future attacks, while also gaining insight into how that mind works and what, if any, reasons have made the person who they are.

  • PRESENTED BY:
  • CRIME STOPPERS

WHAT IS CRIME STOPPERS?

Fight against crime with a team from Calgary Crime Stoppers and learn how they provide citizens with a way to anonymously supply the police with information about past, present or future crimes. Since 1982, Calgary Crime Stoppers has helped to clear over 14,300 criminal cases, recover over $18.4 Million in stolen property and seize more than $296 Million in illegal drugs.

  • PRESENTED BY:
  • DR. BLAKE AUSMUS

THE BRAINS AND MINDS OF CRIMINALS

Journey through the brains of killers and criminals. Research and evidence through brain scans helps us to dive deep inside their psyche. How do they differ from healthy brains? What caused them to be this way? And is there something that can be done to help these brains? Dr. Blake Ausmus is a registered Psychologist in Alberta with a PhD in Psychology, practices at Sano State Psychology and various clinics in Alberta.

EATS & TREATS

  • $26.00
  • FEATURE FOOD

Police STEAKout

Grilled Sirloin 6 oz Center cut | Creamy Garlic Mash | Buttered Veggies | Peppercorn Sauce | Soft Roll

German Chocolate Cake Inspired by Gary Mark Gilmore’s last meal who was a convicted murderer executed in 1977. He became widely known for insisting on being executed rather than appealing his death sentence which led to the resumption of the death penalty in the US after a decade long hiatus. For his final meal, he requested steak, potatoes, milk, coffee and 3 shots of whiskey. Whiskey was smuggled into the prison the prison the night prior.

Served on trays that are being used in Calgary Correctional Centre.

  • $22.00
  • FEATURE FOOD

CSI - Chicken So Incredible

Crispy Chicken Parmesan | Creamy Garlic Mash | Buttered Veggies | Herb Tomato Sauce | Soft Roll | German Chocolate Cake

Ruth Snyder made several attempts at murdering her abusive husband before succeeding on March 20, 1927. She and her lover, staged the death as part of a burglary, but was later caught and sentenced to death. Her last meal was chicken parmesan with alfredo pasta, ice cream, two milkshakes and a 12-pack of grape soda.

Served on trays that are used in Calgary Correctional Centre.

  • $20.00
  • FEATURE DRINK

Death in the Afternoon

Adapted from a drink allegedly created by Ernest Hemingway himself, this mix of prosecco and absinthe is the perfect blank page onto which to write someone's final ending. As Hemingway once put it, those who live in proximity to death live their lives to “the fullest.”

This drink is made with Absinthe, Prosecco, Sprite.

  • $20.00
  • FEATURE DRINK

Tell-Tale Heart Cocktail

Inspired by Edgar Allan Poe, this bright and vibrant cocktail made with vodka, Cherry Heering and bitters. In Tell-Tale Heart, Poe writes what goes on in the mind of someone as they decide to commit murder: "Whenever it fell upon me, my blood ran cold; and so by degrees — very gradually — I made up my mind to take the life of the old man, and thus rid myself of the eye forever."

This drink is made with Vodka, Cherry Heering and Cranberry Juice.

FAQ

    • Is there an ATM on site?

      An ATM is located on the second floor at the top of the entry stairs, outside of the Spark Eatery.

    • I'm a member, do I need a ticket?

      Yes! Spark Members receive a special ticket offer of $10 for all Spark After Dark events. That's over 60% in savings!

    • Can I buy tickets at the door?

      Yes! While tickets are available at the door, it is highly recommended to reserve yours online in advance to ensure you don't miss out on this event, as these events can sell out.

    • Are children allowed?

      Spark After Dark events are 18+, meaning no children are permitted. It's an opportunity for adults to enjoy unique experiences tailored specifically for a mature audience.

    • How much is parking?

      Parking is FREE for Spark Members. For everyone else, parking is $10 and is managed by Calgary Parking through ParkPlus. If paying through the ParkPlus mobile app, enter Zone 8310 or use one of the pay machines located near the front doors. To pay online with ParkPlus, click here.

    • Will the entire science centre be open for this event?

      Yes, including the Digital Immersion Gallery, Being Human, Open Studio, Steven's Lab, Infinity Dome, the Spark Eatery and Astronaut Ice Cream café!

    • Is there overflow parking?

      Yes! If there is not enough room in the Spark parking lot, visitors are welcome to use the north parking lot of the Calgary Zoo at 84 St. Georges Drive NE. For more information, visit: www.calgaryparking.com/findparking/zooparking

Spark After Dark (18+): Greatest Hits 2024

Join Spark December 20, 2024 for the next adult-only night of science!

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