Right to the Stage: Science World’s 2021 Patron, Peter Brown

A Science World Patron is someone who’s contributed significantly to our development as a charity. We're thrilled to announce our 2021 Patrons: Lily & Bob Lee; Dana & John Montalbano; Pauline Finn; and Peter Brown.    

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“Citizens of Earth! Scientists of all ages! Please join us now at Peter Brown Family Centre Stage for…the Electricity Show!”  

Prior to health protocols on gathering, thousands of wonder-seekers streamed through Science World’s galleries and exhibits, their ears tuned for this familiar siren call. 

Children would run to find their spot in front of the stage. An enthusiastic performer would greet them. And the audience would get to see, hear, smell and experience science in action—perhaps, for our youngest visitors, for the very first time.  

For the past year, the infamous science shows that took place at the Peter Brown Family Centre Stage are now livestreamed into the homes and classrooms of thousands of people across BC. 

“If you can open the door and expose kids to fun interactive science, it can change their life for the good,” says the stage’s namesake and long-time Science World supporter, Peter Brown.  

Peter Brown’s $500,000 donation in 2006 made it possible for Science World to transform our makeshift stage into the modern, high-tech and versatile focal point of the dome today.  

With Peter’s gift, a large screen display with high-definition cameras were installed and infrared camera adaptors were added to allow more visuals and close-ups of demonstrations. Upgrades to our stage deck, audience area and lighting made for a more accessible and attractive mise en scène.  

“When I was giving to Science World, I went right to the stage," says Peter, whose foundation supports non-profit projects and charitable causes that strengthen community and contribute to the health and vitality of BC.  

“I’ve had a lifelong interest in science education and kids, and Centre Stage is perfect for the kids. You won’t snag everyone—maybe it’s one in five, maybe one in ten, but for those kids, planting that kernel of interest is so important.”  

A Doomed Dome 

Peter jokes that it’s a little ironic he’s receiving the honour of Science World’s 2021 Patron.  

“When Jimmy Pattison retired the night Expo 86 ended, I took over as the chairman in charge of the destruction of the dome,” he laughs.  

The temporary structure at the centre of the world’s fair was built to be torn down. But, Peter says a passionate campaign by BC’s Economic Development Minister Grace McCarthy saved it from its fate.  

And now, as a long-time philanthropist and advocate in support of growing the economic potential of BC, Peter likes to imagine what could happen if Science World had an unlimited budget. 

“I mean, with the ways we can educate kids in science today? There’s infinite possibilities for how Science World can attract an interest in the next generation of kids.” 

Because while it’s true that the dome continues to leak and needs to be re-skinned—an expensive upgrade project in our near future—Science World’s history is deeply connected to the sparkling geodesic dome at the head of False Creek.  

“Everyone I talk to who passes through Vancouver says, ‘Oh! I’ve been to Science World, I was at your stage,’” says Peter. “These are the kinds of world-class attractions that bring people to the city and keep them here.” 

“At a young age, just the little bit of exposure that kids get in Science World is very important. It helps them see more life choices. We should all really value Science World for that.”  

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