Professor Wow! Inspires Students with Science Shows in Saskatchewan

Students at two schools in Prince Albert, Saskatchewan, will experience an engaging approach to learning as Aythan Ross, known as Professor Wow!, presents his science show on September 17 and September 18, 2023. The performances, part of the Organization of Saskatchewan Arts Councils (OSAC) initiative, aim to provide a fresh perspective on science to students across the province.

On September 17, Professor Wow! will perform at St. John Community School at 1:30 p.m., followed by a show at Princess Margaret Public School on September 18 at 9:30 a.m. These events are made possible through OSAC’s Performing Arts in Schools Program, which seeks to enhance students’ educational experiences through live performances.

Ross describes his touring style as reminiscent of an old European circus, traveling in his own trailer to reach various communities where hotel accommodations may not be available. “I’m quite excited and looking forward to exploring North Saskatchewan and seeing all these towns and meeting all the students in the schools,” he stated.

The roots of Ross’s passion for performance began in his childhood, as he sought out creative outlets beyond athletics. “I learned how to juggle one year in the mid-1980s and got sort of addicted to juggling and balancing,” he recalled. Initially pursuing a degree in literature and philosophy in Montreal, Ross transitioned to performing full-time around the year 2000, developing his unique blend of circus and vaudeville.

Educational Focus and Show Structure

Over the past decade, Ross has shifted his focus toward educational performances in schools. His latest show, titled “Professor Wow in the Invisible World of Science,” was developed in 2019 and has gained popularity among educational institutions. The show covers topics such as Newton’s Laws of Motion, aerodynamics, gravity, and more, providing an interactive learning experience for students.

Originally, Ross’s performances were centered around entertainment, but as he began to perform more frequently in schools, he recognized the importance of incorporating educational elements. “I wanted to have something that was more curriculum-based, a bit more meaningful,” he explained. “As an independent artist, of course, you have to kind of go where the work is and try to figure things out.”

Ross’s enthusiasm for science blossomed during his university studies, despite being primarily an arts student. “I really fell in love with science in university because, as one professor said to us, science is just ideas,” he noted. This passion is evident in his show, where he translates scientific principles into engaging demonstrations that capture students’ imaginations.

Previous Success and Ongoing Tour

The upcoming performances in Prince Albert mark the fourth and fifth stops on Ross’s current tour, which follows a successful run of 19 performances of his previous show, “The Great Balanzo,” across Saskatchewan in 2018, reaching an audience of over 5,283 students and teachers.

“I’m very excited to be back with this science show where I get to play myself,” he expressed. While portraying a “silly professor,” Ross acknowledges his role as an entertainer rather than a traditional educator. His curiosity about the science behind his circus tricks drives the educational content of his show, linking performance art with scientific exploration.

Following his performances in Prince Albert, Ross will continue his tour with a stop at Maude Burke School in Melfort on September 18 at 2 p.m. Through his engaging performances, Aythan Ross aims to inspire a love for science in students across Saskatchewan, demonstrating that learning can be both fun and informative.