Funky debunking

‘Mythbusters’ returns to Wharton with explosive show

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Thursday, June 20 — Basically, it’s a show for the family, explosion enthusiasts or anyone who’s ever said, “I wonder if you can really stop a bullet by sticking your finger in the barrel … ”.


Discovery Channel’s “Mythbusters” hosts Jamie Hyneman and Adam Savage will give two shows at the Wharton Center on Saturday as part of their “Mythbusters: Behind the Myths” tour. With Hyneman’s signature calm, straightforward demeanor and Savage’s energetic, little-kid-on-a-sugar-high persona, the show will transport audiences into the world of mythological quests, science experiments, don’t-try-this-at-home demonstrations and, of course, a few explosions.

How will they “bust the myths” indoors and on a stage with a room full of observers?


“As safely as possible,” Savage said, by phone, with a chuckle. He was on the road as part of the tour.


Savage said that with the television show, the explosions are what “trick” viewers into becoming interested in science, but this “Mythbusters tour” will go a step beyond that. Behind-the-scenes stories and video will provide inside looks into the men behind the myths, and audience participation will enable observers — young and old — to become mythbusters themselves.


And Savage said it will be funny.


“Picture a sense of humor hooked up to about 10 times the normal level on the show,” he said.


After sold-out performances at Wharton Center in March 2012, Hyneman and Savage return with new questions to answer and problems to solve. With Michigan being ranked as the No. 1 state in myth submissions for the show, Savage said it’s a place that he always looks forward to coming to.


His out-there personality allows him to test whatever notion he wants to — danger, practicality or plausibility aside. Some of Michigan’s requests have been the source of those scientific ventures.


However, regardless of the myths’ origins or the humorous presentation, Savage says “Mythbusters” always has the same thing in mind.


“What looks like play is actually learning,” he said. “We have to question the things around us.”


“Mythbusters: Behind the Myths Tour”

Wharton Center

3 p.m. & 8 p.m. Saturday

$55-$25/VIP seats $150 (8 p.m. show only)

(800) WHARTON

whartoncenter.com

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