Come along to the most mysterious soiree of the year as we bring you Night Lab: Hide and Chic on Friday 16 August, proudly sponsored by National Science Week.

Inspired by all things ‘unseen’ and ‘camouflaged’, Night Lab: Hide and Chic promises to be an event filled with intrigue, science, and endless, adults-only fun. Enter a ‘hidden world’ and experience things you’ve never seen before (get it?) with an array of exclusive performances, activities, floor talks, games, food, cocktails, and more.

This top-to-bottom adults only takeover of the Museum, which has run since 2018, has become a cult classic on Adelaide’s calendar – dubbed an inclusive “nightclub for nerds”, where everyone is welcome.

Illusionist Rob Ellinger is your captivating host this time around, guiding attendees through a thrilling program over four hours and spread across five floors of the Museum. Rob – an Adelaide Fringe favourite – will also perform roving magic throughout the night and cap things off with a mind-bending finale.

At our Temple of Science, hear scientists and researchers explore everything from creatures involved in deadly games of hide-and-seek to the ceremonial masks used by Pacific cultures. Peer through research-grade microscopes – including an incredible, scanning electron one – and spot things that are too small to see with the naked eye … from crystals within crystals to the largest native land animal in Antarctica (which is actually a whopping 2mm). Or get up-close and personal with creepy-crawlies, known to hide in cracks and crevices, thanks to Bugs n Slugs.

You can also unleash your creative side, with activities ranging from mask-making to sketching and costume-judging. (Costumes are optional – wear a mask, chic dress, camo, something inspired by the ‘unseen’, or just try to blend in.) Heard of the comedy panel game show, Taskmaster? We’ll be bringing our own twist on the show with Mask Tasker. There will also be games, inspired by the prehistoric era, and a scavenger hunt using infrared technology.  

Dance like nobody’s watching (or aren’t they?) as Adelaide trio Nights on Mayfair take to the stage, playing a mix of current and classic pop, R&B, and soul jams. Then refuel with top-quality offerings from Carlito’s Paella, Ambra Spirits and Ghost Wines.

South Australian Museum Director, Dr David Gaimster, says, “There is a reason that Night Lab has become one of our favourite evenings on the Museum calendar. Science and entertainment collide in this unique event, which sees adults takeover the Museum after-dark, thanks to the generosity of National Science Week.”

Night Lab: Hide and Chic is on Friday 16 August, 6-10pm, at the South Australian Museum. Night Lab is an adults-only event for ages 18+. General admission tickets are $45, plus booking fee, and discounted for Museum Members. Tickets include a welcome drink, entry, and access to all activities. Tickets are available here.

For more information or to organise an interview, please contact: 

Amy Haring, South Australian Museum

0434 880 950 | amy.haring@samuseum.sa.gov.au   

About the South Australian Museum

The South Australian Museum has been committed to making Australia’s natural and cultural heritage accessible, engaging and fun for over 165 years.

It is a place where families can learn and grow together. Today the Museum is one of the most visited museums in Australia and holds collections of national and international significance.