Body Worlds exhibit slated for science centre

An internationally acclaimed exhibition of the human body and neuroscience will open at the Telus World of Science in Calgary April 30.

The centre is to host the premiere of Gunther von Hagens' Body Worlds and The Brain. The exhibit includes 200 authentic human specimens, including entire bodies, individual organs and transparent body slices that have been uniquely plasticized. The display, described as "an unforgettable anatomy lesson that allows visitors to see and understand physiology and health," demonstrates how muscles, bones and nerves interact.

"This is a rare opportunity for visitors to view the complexity of the human body in a very compelling manner," said Telus World of Science CEO Jennifer Martin. "It's also a significant milestone for us to host this groundbreaking international exhibition. This exhibit is an ideal starting point for the new direction in which we are taking the organization."

More than 29 million visitors in 47 cities around the world, including Los Angeles, Toronto, London and Tokyo have seen a Body Worlds exhibition since its debut in 1995.

The Calgary exhibit will feature recent findings in neuroscience, information on brain development and function, brain disease and disorders, and brain performance and improvement.

Advance public ticket purchases begin March 13.

The Body Worlds exhibitions are anatomical displays of real human bodies, willed by donors, to Germany's Institute for Plastination. To date, more than 10,000 people have agreed to donate their bodies to the Institute for Plastination.