PEEPSHOW, MAKIES AND PANCAKEBOT – MAKER FAIRE UK UNVEILS A LINE UP NOT TO BE MISSED

Dinosaur cloning, 3D action dolls created by lasers and robots and bacterial ‘kiss’ portraits are just a fraction of the exciting line up at the world-famous Maker Faire UK taking place this 27-28 April, for which tickets have just gone on sale. Hosted by the Centre for Life in Newcastle, a venue renowned for its innovative and ‘playful’ public engagement programme, the 2013 tech fair has built upon the success of the three previous events to date and is introducing a number of firsts, including a DIYBio community lab, where international ‘biohackerspaces’ will bring their interactive biology projects to the UK masses. There is something for everyone, starting with a humanoid knitting robot looking to out-knit the most practised hand. PEEPSHOW, two full size animated pole dancers with a robot DJ are expected to cause quite a stir with adults, while no one will be able to resist PancakeBot, a little LEGO robot that draws pancakes words and pictures on an electric griddle. Adding to the heady mix will be Dale Dougherty, one of Barack Obama’s ‘champions of change’ and the founder of the Maker Faire concept, who will be in attendance at the UK event (the biggest gathering of Makers in Europe), for the first time. Dale commented: “Newcastle, with its reputation for innovation, is the perfect home for Maker Faire UK and the Centre for Life’s ongoing efforts in inspiring and supporting the next generation of Makers should not be underestimated. Once again, the event line up is exactly the right balance of performances, hands on activities, installations and workshops. “Change comes over time but it is clear from the 10,000 plus visitors to Maker Faire UK that the appetite for this type of event continues to grow and that people are starting to look at science in a whole different manner, realising that it holds something for them, whether they are an amateur or professional or enjoying it for work or pleasure. Now that is one amazing legacy.” Linda Conlon, chief executive of the Centre for Life, said: “We aim to ignite and nurture a curiosity in everyone for science, technology, engineering and maths. Maker Faire is a wonderful way to do this on a large-scale basis. We’re thrilled to welcome Dale with the energy, ideas and kudos he brings for this year and future events too.” Both Newcastle and Northumbria University are supporting this year’s Maker Faire. Northumbria University’s Pro Vice-Chancellor for Region, Engagement and Partnerships Lucy Winskell added: “As a research-engaged university, we share the passion for curiosity, science and innovation that the Centre for Life and the Maker Faire events inspire. With a line up like this, we are confident of a highly successful event and recommend people book their tickets early while they are still available.” Tickets are now on sale and cost £8.25 adult, £24.10 family. For more information or to book online, please visit www.MakerFaireUK.com.