'Videotopia' interactive exhibit comes to Institute of Texan Cultures
(July 30, 2003)--Play your favorite arcade video games and learn about others at "Videotopia," an interactive exhibit on display from Aug. 12 to Nov. 9 at the Institute of Texan Cultures (ITC).
Sponsored in part by Blockbuster Inc., "Videotopia" explores the impact of video games on our culture while teaching visitors about basic electronics, the nature of interactivity and the links between science, technology and society.
An opening reception for the event is from 7 to 10 p.m., Friday, Aug. 15, at ITC. Sponsored in part by Budweiser and Big Red/7UP Bottling Co., the event is free and open to the public. For more information or to RSVP for the event, call 210-458-2247.
Pictured are (upper photo) the Videotopia giant-coin entry gate and (lower photo) the Tempest arcade video game.
"Whether one wants to reminisce about playing video games as a child or learn more about gaming history through interactive displays, 'Videotopia' offers a fantastic exhibit, and Blockbuster is pleased to support it," said Chris Pittner, regional director of operations for Blockbuster, San Antonio.
"Videotopia" explores the history of video games with informational kiosks and displays and features more than 50 restored and new arcade video games. Visitors can play games such as Space Invaders, Asteroids, Tempest, Robotron and Donkey Kong and purchase coins to play more games.
"Videotopia" was created in 1992 by The Electronics Conservatory and has been updated continually to include the latest electronic games. Other institutions that have hosted the exhibit include the Carnegie Science Center in Pittsburgh, the Franklin Institute Science Museum in Philadelphia and the Museum of Science and Industry in Tampa.
Blockbuster Inc. is a subsidiary of Viacom Inc. and a leading global provider of in-home movies and game entertainment with more than 8,600 stores throughout the Americas, Europe, Asia and Australia. Viacom is a leading global media company with businesses in broadcast and cable television, radio, outdoor advertising and online.
One of three University of Texas at San Antonio campuses, the ITC is an educational center focusing on Texas history and cultures. The following admission fees are effective Aug. 12: $6.50, adults; $3, children (3-12 years); $4, seniors (65 years or older); $4, military personnel with ID; and free, members, UTSA students and employees, and children 2 years and under.
ITC hours (effective Aug. 15) are: Tuesday through Thursday, Saturday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Friday, 9 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sunday, noon-5 p.m. Arrangements can be made for birthday parties and special events.
For more information, call 210-458-2330.
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© The University of Texas at San Antonio, 2003