Museum of Television and Radio
Paley Center for Media
25 West 52nd Street
New York, NY 10019
(212) 621-6800 (recorded information) -- 621-6600 (all other information) -- 621-6616 Groups
http://www.paleycenter.org

Statistics tell us that children (and adults) spend too much time watching television. This phenomenon is a growing concern in the United States, with many people of the opinion that kids are becoming less able to think competently partly because of this. So, should you take your family (or group) on a field trip to watch TV? Definitely!

The Museum of Television & Radio helps visitors learn to listen to radio and view television programs critically. With knowledge on the background of these media, people will be equipped to make informed, accurate judgments about what they view and hear.

The Museum has collected more than 60,000 television and radio programs, including news broadcasts, performing arts, children's shows, sportscasts, public affairs, and even commercials. Using Macintosh computers, visitors access an enormous database to choose the programs they want to view or hear.

With six floors of exhibit and activity areas, including art galleries, screening rooms, and two theaters to enjoy, visitors are in for a very special experience.

Drawing on the collection, the Museum delivers classes to the general public during which a lecturer may discuss the ideas behind a current exhibition or give thematic talks relating to television and radio.

Seminars featuring members of the television, radio, and advertising communities have featured panelists such as the late Jim Henson, Alan Alda, Eric Sevareid, and the Smothers Brothers, along with other well-known professionals. These seminars are informal, and the audience is encouraged to ask questions.

Weekend screenings for children offer specially selected programs for ages 2 to 12. And the Museum also offers special exhibitions that present thematically related radio and television programs. Past subjects have included the Hallmark Hall of Fame, the work of Ernie Kovacs, the work of Lucille Ball, and many other greats.

Saturday workshops for children ages 8 to 13 feature a recreation of a 1930's - 40's radio program. Children actually read scripts and use sound effects as they discover the excitement of early radio.

There is much, much more here, and all are encouraged to call for a calendar. Throughout the year, special screenings and events offer entertainment and educational opportunities to families that they will not find anywhere else.

Classes for School and other Groups (call the Education Dept. between 12 & 1 and 3 & 5), from grade 3 through adult, present topics such as Different Ways to Tell A Story, Behind the Scenes of Radio/Television/Movies, What is a Stereotype?, How Blacks Have Been Portrayed on Television, Science Fiction, The Cold War, and others. They offer a unique opportunity to see what Radio and Television are really all about. Routine programs now become valuable educational tools. Museum staff can also tailor classes to a group's specific needs and interests.

Groups should call the Group Tour Dept. to schedule a specific screening or an Orientation and Museum Tour. Groups can consist of up to 50 people, with a child (under 18)/chaperone ratio of 10:1.