by Moira Cullings
moira.cullings@theleaven.org
KANSAS CITY, Kan. — Many people dream of seeing Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel but are never able to make the trip to the Vatican.
Now with travel restrictions due to COVID-19, the opportunity to view his work might seem even further out of reach.
But it’s closer than people might think.
With just a three and a half hour drive from Kansas City, Kansas, to St. Louis, those interested can see Michelangelo’s life-size masterpiece up close.
Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel Exhibition has been touring cities across the U.S. and other countries over the past five years.
Produced by SEE Global Entertainment, it gives viewers the chance to see Michelangelo’s work even more clearly than they would at the Sistine Chapel itself — thanks to life-size recreations of his work.
The exhibit opened at America’s Center Ballroom in St. Louis on Nov. 6, with hours from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Thursday through Sunday.
It’s centered on the Sistine Chapel ceiling, as well as “The Last Judgment” fresco on the chapel’s altar wall.
Special fabrics make the giant frescoes look authentic, and rather than straining their vision for a clear view, spectators will have plenty of time to observe the famous works up-close.
They won’t have to fight off a crowd either, with ample space in the ballroom for social distancing. Several other COVID-19 protocols will also be in place.
According to Brian Hall, chief marketing officer at Explore St. Louis, attendees can download a smartphone app for the exhibit, point it at any fresco and listen to the description of the biblical scene Michelangelo created.
Those who attend are also invited to take their own photos of the frescoes.
The St. Louis exhibit will close on Jan. 10, 2021.
To purchase tickets or learn more about the exhibit, visit the website here.
