Carroll College Chemistry Dept. Presents

Elemental
Extravaganza

A Colorful, Curious, and Completely Chemical Demonstration Show

May 29–30, 2026 · 7 PM Simperman Hall — Carroll College
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About the Show

The Carroll College Chemistry Department is committed to inspiring curiosity, critical thinking, and a lifelong appreciation for science. We believe that chemistry should be experienced, shared, and celebrated.

The Elemental Extravaganza brings chemistry to life for our community — a free show created to share our excitement for science beyond the classroom. Made possible by the time, creativity, and resources volunteered by our faculty and students.

Join professors Dr. Becky Coates and Dr. Caroline Pharr for an evening of dazzling demonstrations that will make you see the world differently.

Dr. Becky Coates

Dr. Becky Coates

Chemistry Faculty

Dr. Caroline Pharr

Dr. Caroline Pharr

Chemistry Faculty

Carroll College

The Demonstrations

What You'll Witness

Two acts of mind-bending chemistry. Thirteen demonstrations. Zero chance of boredom.

🐄

Act I

🔥

Inflation-Proof Funds

What happens when flame meets finances? This one defies expectations...and the fire.

🧴

Elephant Toothpaste

This might just be the biggest squeeze of toothpaste you've ever seen. Big enough for an elephant, perhaps?

🧪

Liquid Alchemy

Two clear liquids are combined... and something unexpected begins to appear.

✨

The Silent Sculptor

No sound, no sparks, just a quiet transformation that reveals something beautiful.

🧙

The Vanishing Trick

Now you see it, now you don't.

🔄

The Oscillating Mystery

This reaction doesn't like to sit still.

🐄

Act II

🌀

The Air of Surprise

A quick shake sets it in motion. But the real magic? It comes from something you can't even see.

💪

Can You Handle It?

Looks harmless. Feels ordinary. But chemistry has a surprise in store.

🌈

The pH Decoder

Invisible properties become visible with just a drop. These indicators reveal more than meets the eye.

🔮

The Cold Glow

Some reactions only show themselves in the dark.

🔥

Dancing Colors

These flames know how to put on a show. But why are no two the same?

💥

The Great Whoosh

It starts quietly... then suddenly, it doesn't. Energy doesn't always wait.

🎆

The Bear's Last Stand

A final act. A sweet volunteer. A reminder: chemistry never runs out of surprises.

Demonstrations are subject to change. That's the beauty of science — expect the unexpected!

Plan Your Visit

Getting There

Event Details

Dates May 29 – 30, 2026
Showtime 7:00 PM each evening
Doors Open at 6:30 PM — arrive early to find your seats
Location Simperman Hall 101/202 (Wiegand Amphitheatre)
1250 Hunthausen Way, Helena, MT 59625
Cost Free admission for everyone

Parking & Entry

P

Park in the student lots off Hunthausen Way near Lyndale Avenue on the east side of campus. These are closest to Simperman Hall and marked "S" on the campus map.

Enter through the west entrance of Simperman Hall, where signs and friendly chemistry students will guide you to the Wiegand Amphitheatre.

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