LOS ANGELES (March 21, 2018) – KING TUT: Treasures of the Golden Pharaoh, a new exhibition celebrating the 100-year anniversary of the discovery of his tomb, will open its doors to the public for the first time anywhere at the California Science Center on Saturday, March 24.
The exhibition’s curated collection represents the largest assembly of artifacts and gold from Tutankhamun’s tomb ever on public display outside of Egypt – more than 150 real artifacts, three times what has ever toured together before. Presented by the Egyptian Ministry of Antiquities, IMG and the California Science Center, the new immersive exhibition debuts in Los Angeles from March 24, 2018 – January 6, 2019, as the start of a 10-city international tour.
“Los Angeles is home to treasures from throughout the world — and this exhibition will be a powerful addition that gives visitors a fascinating glimpse into history,” said Mayor Eric Garcetti. “People from everywhere come to L.A. for incomparable experiences in arts and culture, and I look forward to welcoming ‘KING TUT: Treasures of the Golden Pharaoh’ to our city.”
Forty percent of these artifacts are traveling outside of Egypt for the first and last time before returning for permanent display at the upcoming Grand Egyptian Museum.
“The occasion of the 100th anniversary of one of the greatest archeological discoveries in history inspired us to create an exhibition like none before. As millions of people around the world get the opportunity to see these ancient objects in an immersive and personal context, we know King Tut’s place in people’s imaginations will be secure for generations to come,” said John Norman, Managing Director, Exhibitions, IMG.
Unlike past tours, KING TUT: Treasures of the Golden Pharaoh is exclusively focused on interpreting the significance and meaning of artifacts from Tutankhamun’s 3,300-year-old tomb. Among the important works on display are: the tomb Guardian statue, which is leaving Egypt for the first time, a colossal quartzite statue of the king, his one-of-a-kind intricate golden shrine, ornate jewelry and bands that wound around the linen of the mummy, as well as many other exquisite items created for the Boy King to use in life or in death.
“We are pleased to host the world premiere of KING TUT: Treasures of the Golden Pharaoh. Its ornate artifacts and multimedia displays will stimulate interest in the many sciences related to archaeology. Guests will also learn how the science of archaeology has advanced over the past 100 years, including medical technologies that have revealed new information about King Tut’s health and lineage,” said California Science Center President Jeff Rudolph.
The exhibition features nine distinct experiential galleries and an array of 3D visuals, digital content, 360-degree theatrical manifestations, custom soundscapes and more along with an engaging, audio-guided tour.
Though pharaohs after him nearly succeeded in erasing him from the pages of history, King Tut made world headlines when British archaeologist and Egyptologist Howard Carter discovered his intact tomb in 1922. Exhibition guests will follow King Tut as he journeys from death through the underworld to find his place in the afterlife, learning how each burial artifact was used to assist his perilous journey, as well as the storyline of one of the most significant finds in modern archaeology.
KING TUT: Treasures of the Golden Pharaoh will move to Europe following the Los Angeles showing. At the conclusion of the 10-city tour, the items will go on permanent display alongside the comprehensive Tutankhamun collection at the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) being constructed in Cairo. Proceeds from this exhibition will support the GEM and archeological sites in Egypt.
With nearly 100,000 tickets issued and a sold out opening weekend, tickets are still available for future dates. With unofficial speculator brokers attempting to sell tickets for many times the official ticket price, guests are advised that tickets at face value are available exclusively at www.californiasciencecenter.org.
Ticket prices range from $19.50 to $29.95. Entry times from 10 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Discounts are available for members, students, seniors and groups. Groups of 15 or more may inquire about group reservations by calling 213-744-2019.
About IMG
IMG is a global leader in sports, fashion, events and media, operating in more than 30 countries. The company manages some of the world’s greatest sports figures and fashion icons; stages hundreds of live events and branded entertainment experiences annually; and is a leading independent producer and distributor of sports and entertainment media. IMG also specializes in sports training and league development, as well as marketing, media and licensing for brands, sports organizations and collegiate institutions. IMG is part of the Endeavor (formerly WME | IMG) network.
About the California Science Center
The California Science Center is a dynamic destination where families, adults and children can explore the wonders of science through interactive exhibits, live demonstrations, innovative programs and awe-inspiring films. The California Science Center and IMAX Theater are located in historic Exposition Park just west of the Harbor (110) Freeway at 700 Exposition Park Drive. The Science Center is open daily from 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 pm. Parking is $12, cash only.
