King Tut Exhibit Closing Soon

The people of Atlanta have a final opportunity to see "Tutankhamun: The Golden King and the Great Pharaohs" during extended hours for the last two weeks of its run at the Atlanta Civic Center. This exhibition of Tutankhamun’s treasures, on view till May 17, 2009, features more than 130 extraordinary objects from the greatest eras of Egyptian history. The companion exhibition "Wonderful Things: The Harry Burton Photographs and the Discovery of the Tomb of Tutankhamun" at the Michael C. Carlos Museum of Emory University has been extended through July 26, 2009.

Extended hours at the Boisfeuillet Jones Atlanta Civic Center for the Tutankhamun exhibition begin May 1:

Monday- Thursday: 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. (last ticket sold); exhibition closes at 7:30 p.m.
Friday-Sunday: 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. (last ticket sold); exhibition closes at 9 p.m.
Matinee pricing Mondays-Thursdays from noon until close is available for $15, and packages of tickets for a family of four are $46. For more information about visiting and tickets, visit www.kingtut.org or www.carlos.emory.edu. Carlos Museum members receive untimed tickets at $12, and members at a certain level and above get two free tickets. Admission to the Carlos Museum for"Wonderful Things" is a donation of $7.

As one of the last Egyptian-themed events during the exhibition’s run, Dr. Peter Lacovara, Carlos Museum’s curator of ancient Egyptian, Nubian, and Near Eastern Art, will conduct a tour of revival art and architecture in Atlanta at the Fox Theatre, Oakland Cemetery, and the High Museum on May 9, 2009. The chartered coach for the"Egyptomania in Atlanta Bus Tour" will leave the Carlos Museum at 9:30 a.m. Participants will enjoy a picnic lunch on the grounds of Atlanta’s Oakland Cemetery. Fee: $40 for Museum members; $50 for non-members. To register, call 404.727.4280.

"Tutankhamun: The Golden King and the Great Pharaohs" includes many artifacts never before seen in the United States, featuring more than 130 extraordinary objects from the reign of Tutankhamun and the most significant pharaohs who ruled the Nile throughout 2,000 years of history. "Wonderful Things" brings to Atlanta 60 photographs showcasing the discovery of the tomb of Tutankhamun from 1922. These photographs not only bring to life the excitement of the discovery and excavation of the tomb, but also highlight Harry Burton’s artistic genius as he captured some of the most evocative images ever put on film. Visitors will see how the photographs were taken, the way in which they were used, and how they captured the imagination of the world. This companion exhibition also carries objects on view from the Carlos Museum’s renowned Charlotte Lichirie Collection of Ancient Egyptian art, known for its mummies and coffins spanning over 3,000 years including the oldest Egyptian mummy in the Americas.

Developed in partnership with Michael C. Carlos Museum of Emory University, "Tutankhamun: The Golden King and the Great Pharaohs" is organized by National Geographic, Arts and Exhibitions International and AEG Exhibitions with cooperation from the Egyptian Supreme Council of Antiquities. Northern Trust is the presenting sponsor and American Airlines is the official airline.

Boisfeuillet Jones Atlanta Civic Center Location: 395 Piedmont Avenue, NE, Atlanta, GA 30308 Telephone: 404.880.3242 Hours: Monday- Thursday: 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. (last ticket sold); exhibition closes at 7:30 p.m. Friday-Sunday: 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. (last ticket sold); exhibition closes at 9 p.m.

Michael C. Carlos Museum Location: 571 South Kilgo Circle, Atlanta, GA 30322, U.S.A. Telephone: 404.727.4282 Fax: 404.727.4292 Hours: Tuesday through Saturday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sunday 12 noon - 6 p.m. (Closed on Mondays and university holidays) Admission: $7 donation. Free for Carlos Museum members and Emory University faculty, students, and staff. Public Tours: Free docent-led tours of the Museum depart from the Rotunda on Level One every Sunday at 2:30 p.m. during the Emory academic year (call 404.727.4282 to confirm).


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Carlos Museum Announces Events With World-Renowned Egyptologists

The Michael C. Carlos Museum announces several key Egyptian-themed events for March 2009.

Event highlights include:

"Blessings and Curses in Ancient Egypt," David Silverman, curator of "Tutankhamun: The Golden King and the Great Pharaohs," at the Carlos Museum on March 5 at 7 p.m.
"Mysteries of King Tut Revealed," Zahi Hawass, secretary general of Egypt's Supreme Council of Antiquities, at the Boisfeuillet Jones Atlanta Civic Center on March 19 at 7:30 p.m.
Tour of "Wonderful Things: The Harry Burton Photographs and the Discovery of the Tomb of Tutankhamun" by Peter Lacovara, Carlos Museum’s curator of Egyptian, Nubian and Near Eastern Art at the Carlos Museum on March 20 at 7 p.m.

"Mysteries of Tutankhamun Revealed"

In "Mysteries of Tutankhamun Revealed," Hawass will discuss:

-CT-scans of Tutankhamun’s mummy that were obtained as part of a landmark Egyptian research and conservation project, conducted in cooperation by National Geographic,
the ongoing search for the mummy of Queen Nefertiti, and the discovery of KV63, the chamber recently found in the Valley of the Kings,
-new secrets discovered at the pyramids, and
-his search for the tomb of Cleopatra and Mark Anthony.

A member of the Carlos Museum’s advisory board, Hawass is one of the world's foremost authorities on Egyptian archaeology and is known for his devotion and untiring efforts to promote and protect Egypt’s cultural and archaeological heritage. A book signing will follow his lecture.

Tickets are $8 if purchased in advance at TicketMaster. All tickets are $12 at the door. Carlos Museum members receive two free tickets, while quantities last, to Hawass’ lecture and save up to 20 percent on Carlos Museum membership. View more information on the special membership offer or call 404.727.2623.

"The Blessings and Curses of Ancient Egypt" Lecture

David Silverman, curator of "Tutankhamun: The Golden King and the Great Pharaohs" and Eckley Brinton Coxe, Jr. Professor of Egyptology, Department of Near Eastern Languages, University of Pennsylvania, will speak on "The Blessings and Curses of Ancient Egypt." This event is part of a lecture series bringing distinguished scholars to the Emory campus each year and is generously endowed by the architectural firm Perkins + Will.

Tour of "Wonderful Things"

On March 20 Peter Lacovara, curator of ancient Egyptian, Nubian, and Near Eastern art at the Carlos Museum, will conduct a tour of the companion exhibition "Wonderful Things: The Harry Burton Photographs and the Discovery of the Tomb of Tutankhamun."

Additional March events

"Divine Beasts: Two-part Egyptian Animals Drawing and Painting workshop with Zoo Atlanta" on March 8 at Zoo Atlanta and March 15 at the Carlos Museum from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

"Mythology and Iconography of Divine Kingship in Ancient Egypt" a lecture by Lanny Bell, visiting professor of Egyptology, Brown University, will take place at the Carlos Museum on March 30 at 7 p.m.

More Egypt-related events in Atlanta.

"Tutankhamun: The Golden King and the Great Pharaohs" is organized by National Geographic, AEG Exhibitions and Arts and Exhibitions International, with cooperation from the Egyptian Supreme Council of Antiquities. Sponsored by Northern Trust, the exhibition in Atlanta is developed in partnership with the Michael C. Carlos Museum of Emory University and will run from Nov. 15, 2008 to May 17, 2009. Visit carlos.emory.edu for more information.

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High Hits Record-breaking Advance Ticket Sales for The First Emperor

The High Museum of Art has over 50,000 advance ticket reservations for "The First Emperor: China's Terracotta Army," which opened Sunday, November 16, 2008, and runs through April 18, 2009. This is the largest number ever of advance ticket reservations for the High. The exhibition was previously on view at the British Museum in London (September 13, 2007, through April 6, 2008) and sold out every time slot to over 850,000 visitors.

The High celebrated the opening of the exhibition on Sunday, November 16 from 12 to 5 p.m. with a special opening ceremony at "Ni Hao, Atlanta! A Celebration Fit for an Emperor." Visitors enjoyed traditional Chinese dance and musical performances, as well as art-making workshops to make a miniature terracotta warrior for a miniature army display. The celebration surrounding this exhibition will continue throughout the fall with the following programs:

Go All Night! Friday, November 28, 9a.m. to 2 a.m.
Hands on for the Holidays and Holiday Music: December 26 – 31; 1 to 4 p.m.
High Museum of Art members will be admitted to "The First Emperor" for free and will have special access to preview the exhibition before it opens to the public. Memberships may be purchased online at www.High.org or at the museum. Individual ticket prices are $18 for adults; $15 for students and seniors with ID; $11 for ages 6 to 17; and free for age 5 and under. Discounted tickets are available for groups of 10 or more. Tickets will include admission to "The First Emperor," "Louvre Atlanta: The Louvre and the Masterpiece," all other special exhibitions and the High's permanent collection. An audio guide including both "The First Emperor" and "The Louvre and the Masterpiece" will be available for purchase—$5 for general public; $3 for Members, complete group bookings, and ages 17 and under. The audio guide will be included for school group admission.

The High will also partner with Arts & Exhibitions International, the Atlanta Convention and Visitors Bureau, and Brand Atlanta for a special "Treasures Fit for Kings" combination ticket that will offer discounted admission to both "The First Emperor" and "Tutankhamun: The Golden King and the Great Pharaohs" (Nov. 15, 2008 – May 25, 2009, at the Atlanta Civic Center). Discounted group tickets for both exhibitions can be reserved by calling 1.866.52GROUP.

The First Emperor: China's Terracotta Army "The First Emperor" was inspired by one of the greatest archaeological discoveries of the 20th century. Featuring over 100 works, including 15 terracotta figures, the exhibition represents one of the largest groups of important works relating to the First Emperor ever to be loaned to the U.S. by the Museum of the Terracotta Army and the Cultural Relics Bureau of Shaanxi Province in Xi'an, China. With rarely seen and recently discovered objects from his famed tomb complex, the exhibition will provide insight into the legacy of China's First Emperor, Qin Shihuangdi, who reigned from 221–210 B.C.

"The First Emperor: China's Terracotta Army" is made possible by Lead Sponsor GE, Presenting Sponsor Portman and Official Global Delivery Partner UPS, Official Airline Partner Delta Air Lines, and Official Media Partner Turner Broadcasting. Generous support is provided by The Henry Luce Foundation. Additional support provided by The E. Rhodes and Leona Carpenter Foundation and The Blakemore Foundation. This exhibition is presented in association with the British Museum with support from Morgan Stanley.

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'Tutankhamun: The Golden King and the Great Pharaohs' Makes U.S. Debut November 15 for Seven-Month Run at the Atlanta Civic Center

PRNewswire/ -- "Tutankhamun: The Golden King and the Great Pharaohs," a new National Geographic exhibition featuring more than 130 ancient Egyptian treasures, premieres tomorrow at the Atlanta Civic Center, where it will be on view through May 25, 2009. The exhibition, which will open with more than 100,000 tickets sold, features artifacts from the tomb of the celebrated pharaoh King Tutankhamun and other ancient sites representing 2,000 years of ancient Egyptian history. The exhibition in Atlanta is developed in partnership with the Michael C. Carlos Museum of Emory University.

"Tutankhamun's magic still captures the hearts of people all over the world, even though more than 85 years have passed since the discovery of his amazing tomb," said Zahi Hawass, secretary general of Egypt's Supreme Council of Antiquities. "America has welcomed the golden king, and now he returns, bringing with him all the great pharaohs of Egypt. This exhibition will raise much-needed funds for the preservation of Egypt's monuments and the construction and renovation of museums throughout the country. I always say that Egyptian antiquities are the heritage of the world and that we are only their guardians."

The touring exhibition is organized by National Geographic, Arts and Exhibitions International and AEG Exhibitions, with cooperation from Egypt's Supreme Council of Antiquities. Northern Trust is the presenting sponsor of the tour, and American Airlines is the official airline.

The exhibition features an audio tour and National Geographic video documentary, both narrated by award-winning actor, Harrison Ford.

Proceeds from the tour will go toward antiquities preservation and conservation efforts in Egypt, including the construction of a new grand museum in Cairo.

"Egypt's ancient treasures are among the world's greatest cultural legacies," said Terry Garcia, executive vice president, National Geographic Society. "Even with the great wealth of research that already exists, new technologies continue to open up the past in ways never imagined. Visitors to this exhibition will not only see stunning artifacts spanning 2,000 years of ancient Egyptian history, but they will also learn more about the life and death of Tutankhamun through recent CT scans conducted on his mummy."

To correspond with the King Tut exhibition at the Atlanta Civic Center, a slate of Egyptian-themed experiences and programming will take place throughout the city, including "Wonderful Things: The Harry Burton Photographs and the Discovery of the Tomb of Tutankhamun" at the Michael C. Carlos Museum. On view November 15, 2008, through May 25, 2009, this photography exhibition features 50 photographs taken by Harry Burton, the photographer who accompanied explorer Howard Carter on the Tutankhamun expedition and documented the moment-by-moment discovery of King Tut's untouched tomb.

"The discovery of Tutankhamun's tomb was an unforgettable moment in recent history. We look forward to highlighting, through educational programs and our special exhibition 'Wonderful Things,' the magic of that discovery and the profound impact it had on our understanding of ancient Egyptian culture and its significance today," said Bonnie Speed, director of the Michael C. Carlos Museum.

Also during the exhibition run, Giant Screen Films will offer "Egypt 3D: Secrets of the Mummies," a 22-minute 3D movie presented by Dolby(R) 3D Digital Cinema that follows researchers and explorers as they piece together the archeological and genetic clues of Egyptian mummies. The movie will show in a custom theater adjacent to the exhibition space every half-hour, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., seven days a week.

Additionally, more than 100 businesses throughout the city are participating in a "Tutlanta" affinity card that comes with King Tut ticket purchases, entitling cardholders to more than $900 worth of Egyptian-themed offerings and discounts at participating locations. A full listing of offers is available at http://www.tutlanta.com/.

"Tutankhamun has been welcomed to Atlanta with open arms, which is evidenced by the outpouring of support from local businesses and community leaders, as well as rapid ticket sales for this new exhibition," said John Norman, president, Arts and Exhibitions International. "There is an enduring interest in Egypt's heritage, and this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Atlanta residents and visitors to see a collection of world treasures that represent a veritable who's who of ancient Egypt."

The exhibition is made possible in part by support from Northern Trust and American Airlines.

"For nearly 120 years, Northern Trust has strived to increase social interaction and a sense of community, and integrate the arts into education and other outreach activities," said Frederick H. Waddell, president and chief executive officer of Northern Trust Corporation. "We look forward to sharing this extraordinary event with the Atlanta community, as well as visitors from around the world."

Exhibition organizers anticipate the exhibition will attract visitors throughout the region.

"American Airlines is thrilled to have a role in bringing 'Tutankhamun: The Golden King and the Great Pharaohs' to its Atlanta premiere," said Dan Garton, executive vice president of marketing for American Airlines. "As the official airline of the exhibition, we are pleased that American Airlines is helping to make it possible for these extraordinary objects to be seen by thousands of visitors."

"Tutankhamun: The Golden King and the Great Pharaohs" is the second National Geographic touring exhibition dedicated to the remarkable treasures of King Tutankhamun and ancient Egyptian royalty. It will travel next to Indianapolis following the Atlanta run. The first exhibition, "Tutankhamun and the Golden Age of the Pharaohs," drew nearly 5 million visitors and broke records at the five venues it visited from June 2005 through August 2008, and recently began a three-city encore tour in Dallas.

ABOUT THE EXHIBITION

Premiering November 15, 2008, to May 25, 2009, at the Boisfeuillet Jones Atlanta Civic Center, "Tutankhamun: The Golden King and the Great Pharaohs" features striking objects from some of the most important rulers throughout 2,000 years of ancient Egyptian history, from the 4th Dynasty into the Late Period (about 2600 B.C. - 660 B.C.). Derived from a variety of contexts, including temples and royal and private tombs, many of these artifacts have never before visited the United States.

Tutankhamun was one of the last kings of Egypt's 18th Dynasty and ruled during a crucial, turmoil-filled period of Egyptian history. The boy king died under mysterious circumstances around age 18 or 19, in the ninth year of his reign (1323 B.C.).

The exhibition highlights more than 50 treasures from Tutankhamun's tomb and more than 70 artifacts representing other pharaohs and notables, along with the latest scientific research about King Tut. The storyline follows the splendor of the Egyptian pharaohs, their function in the earthly and divine worlds, and what kingship meant to the Egyptian people.

Four galleries devoted to King Tut correspond to the four rooms of his nearly intact tomb, where the treasures were discovered by British explorer Howard Carter in 1922. Legendary artifacts from the antechamber, the annex, the treasury and the burial chamber include Tutankhamun's golden sandals, jewelry, furniture, weaponry and statuary.

The final gallery features CT scans of Tutankhamun that were obtained as part of a landmark, Egyptian research and conservation project, partially funded by National Geographic, that will CT-scan the ancient mummies of Egypt. The Tutankhamun scans were captured through the use of a portable CT scanner, donated by Siemens Medical Solutions, which allowed researchers to compile the first three-dimensional picture of Tutankhamun and discover more about his life and death.

VISITOR AND TICKET INFORMATION

Tickets to the exhibition at the Atlanta Civic Center can be purchased for visits every day of the week, on the half-hour from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. (galleries close at 7 p.m.). Single tickets range from $16.50-$32.50 and are available at the exhibition box office, 1-877-TUT-TKTS (1-877-888-8587) or http://www.ticketmaster.com/. Group tickets for 10 or more are available at 1-866-52GROUP (1-866-524-7687) or http://www.kingtut.org/. Audio tours ($7) and tickets for "Egypt 3D: Secrets of the Mummies" ($5) can be added at the time of purchase or at the exhibition.

The "Cairo Cafe," a walkup location featuring light fare including soup, salads, sandwiches, snacks and beverages, is located in the lobby and is open from 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Hotel packages, including VIP tickets for anytime access that are not available to the general public, are being offered at Atlanta-area Marriott hotels, including Atlanta Marriott Marquis, Atlanta Marriott Suites Midtown, Renaissance Atlanta Hotel Downtown, Courtyard Atlanta Midtown/Georgia Tech, Residence Inn Atlanta Midtown/17th Street, Residence Inn Atlanta Midtown/Historic, Residence Inn Atlanta Downtown, JW Marriott Hotel Buckhead Atlanta, Springhill Suites Atlanta Buckhead, Atlanta Marriott Century Center, Residence Inn Atlanta Buckhead, Residence Inn Atlanta Buckhead/Lenox Park, Atlanta Marriott Perimeter Center, Atlanta Marriott Downtown and Courtyard Atlanta Executive Park/Emory. Packages also are available at The Ritz-Carlton, Atlanta (Downtown) and The Ritz-Carlton, Buckhead. More information is available at http://www.kingtuthotels.com/ or http://www.kingtut.org/.

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See Extraordinary World Treasures in Atlanta This Fall

PRNewswire/ -- Atlanta will soon celebrate the U.S. premiere for an all-new King Tut exhibition and the Southeast's debut of China's Terracotta Army. "Tutankhamun: The Golden King and the Great Pharaohs" (Nov. 15, 2008 - May 22, 2009 at the Atlanta Civic Center) and "The First Emperor: China's Terracotta Army" (Nov. 16, 2008 - April 19, 2009 at the High Museum of Art) will open almost simultaneously, making Atlanta the only place in the world where both exhibits can be seen at the same time.

To help visitors explore Atlanta's world of treasures without spending a fortune, a special "Treasures Fit for Kings" combination ticket will offer discounted admission to both exhibitions. The ticket also gives visitors access to other special exhibitions and to the permanent collection at the High Museum of Art.

The combination ticket prices are: Adult (Tues. - Thurs.), $39; Adult (Fri. - Sun.), $41; Youth (Tues. - Sun.), $25. These tickets and special hotel packages will be available online at Atlanta.net/treasures beginning Oct. 6. Discounted group tickets for both exhibitions can be reserved by calling 1.866.52GROUP.

The simultaneous run of these exhibitions gives visitors to Atlanta the opportunity to explore the treasures of two kings from two ancient cultures in one great city, creating a once-in-a-lifetime experience called "Treasures Fit for Kings."

According to Spurgeon Richardson, president and CEO of the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, "With the U.S. dollar down and vacation budgets tight, these two exhibitions in one location will provide world travelers the chance to experience the treasures of the world without a passport and with a price tag that's easy on the wallet."

Support for "Treasures Fit for Kings" is provided by Arts & Exhibitions International, ACVB, Brand Atlanta, the High Museum of Art and supported by a grant from the Georgia Tourism Foundation.

Tutankhamun: The Golden King and the Great Pharaohs

"Tutankhamun: The Golden King and the Great Pharaohs" is a new exhibition featuring more than 130 treasures from the tomb of the celebrated pharaoh King Tut and other ancient sites. Striking objects from some of the most important rulers throughout 2,000 years of ancient Egyptian history will be on view, spanning the 4th Dynasty into the Late Period (about 2600 B.C. - 660 B.C.), many of which have never before visited the United States.

The U.S. premiere at the Atlanta Civic Center will be presented by the Michael C. Carlos Museum of Emory University from November 15, 2008 to May 22, 2009. Carlos Museum members will have an advance opportunity to purchase discounted tickets to the Tutankhamun exhibition beginning on August 15. Details are available at carlos.emory.edu/join.

Through artifacts that showcase the legacies and splendor of the Egyptian pharaohs, viewers will get a sense of how life -- and art -- evolved over generations and under various rulers. The exhibition will include the largest image of King Tut ever found -- a 10-foot statue that originally may have stood at Tutankhamun's mortuary temple and retains much of its original paint. One of the four gold and precious-stone-inlaid canopic coffinettes that contained his mummified internal organs also will be exhibited.

"Tutankhamun: The Golden King and the Great Pharaohs" is organized by National Geographic, Arts and Exhibitions International and AEG Exhibitions, with cooperation from the Egyptian Supreme Council of Antiquities. Northern Trust is the presenting sponsor of the tour, and American Airlines is the official airline. More information is available at http://www.kingtut.org/.

The First Emperor: China's Terracotta Army

"The First Emperor: China's Terracotta Army," an exhibition inspired by one of the greatest archaeological discoveries of the 20th century, features 100 works, including 15 full terracotta figures. The exhibition represents one of the largest groups of important works relating to China's First Emperor ever to be loaned to the U.S. With rarely seen and recently discovered objects from his famed tomb complex, the exhibition will provide insight into the legacy of China's First Emperor, Qin Shihuangdi, who reigned from 221-210 B.C. He is best known for unifying the warring states of China and building the Great Wall. "The First Emperor" will be on view at the High Museum of Art from November 16, 2008 to April 19, 2009.

The life-sized terracotta figures populated the First Emperor's underground tomb complex, just as they would have been integral to the activities of his actual court. Close to 1,000 figures have been excavated from the tomb, and it is estimated that a total of 7,000 may ultimately be unearthed. No two terracotta figures are identical; all are individualized with a distinctive facial appearance. In addition to the terracotta figures, the exhibition also includes artifacts such as bronze weapons, stone armor, and coins.

"The First Emperor: China's Terracotta Army" is made possible by Lead Sponsor GE, Presenting Sponsor Portman, and Official Global Delivery Partner UPS, Official Airline Partner Delta Air Lines, and Official Media Partner Turner Broadcasting. Generous support is provided by The Henry Luce Foundation. Additional support provided by The E. Rhodes and Leona Carpenter Foundation and The Blakemore Foundation. This exhibition is presented in association with the British Museum with support from Morgan Stanley. More information is available at http://www.high.org/firstemperor.

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Georgia Schoolchildren Strike Gold with King Tut Exhibition Field Trip Assistance Initiative

PRNewswire/ -- In an effort to offset rising fuel prices that are a deterrent to school field trips, Georgia's State Superintendent of Schools Kathy Cox, along with organizers of "Tutankhamun: The Golden King and the Great Pharaohs," announced that $200,000 in fuel will be made available to Georgia schools to assist with classroom visits to the exhibition, and up to 10,000 students will receive free entrance. The initiative is being made possible through the support of RaceTrac Petroleum, the third largest private company in Georgia. RaceTrac operates more than 525 retail gasoline convenience stores in 12 southeastern states.

The U.S. premiere of the exhibition at the Boisfeuillet Jones Atlanta Civic Center will be presented by the Michael C. Carlos Museum of Emory University from November 15, 2008 to May 25, 2009. To further supplement classroom visits, a robust portfolio of educational content and lesson planning materials developed by the Carlos Museum is available for free at http://www.kingtut.org/ or http://www.carlos.emory.edu/teacher-programs.

According to a survey by the American Association of School Administrators (AASA), released July 29, almost half of school districts nationwide are cutting back on field trips due to rising transportation costs.

"This is a perfect example of how the business community can support the education of children," said State Superintendent of Schools Kathy Cox. "The King Tut exhibit will allow students to see history and science firsthand, and this field trip would not be possible for most school districts without the generous support of RaceTrac and the exhibition organizers. This will truly be one of those remarkable field trips that students will remember for the rest of their lives, and I urge our educators across GA to take advantage of this opportunity that has the potential to benefit thousands of kids across the state."

All Georgia schools are eligible to participate in the fuel program on a first-come, first-served basis, which will benefit up to 80,000 students. Educators interested in participating in the program and receiving the fuel subsidy may do so by calling 866-52GROUP or visiting http://www.goldengasoffer.com/.

Participation in this program could possibly alleviate moratoriums on school bus availability in some local communities for field trips to this exhibition. Schools receiving free admittance will be designated by the Georgia Department of Education.

"We take our commitment to the community and local youth very seriously," said Allison Moran, senior vice president of operations for RaceTrac. "As one of Georgia's leading gasoline retailers, and with the current economic climate threatening school field trips, this assistance program is the perfect opportunity for us to give back to the community by providing local children with access to an invaluable educational experience."

"Tutankhamun: The Golden King and the Great Pharaohs" is the second National Geographic exhibition dedicated to the remarkable treasures of King Tutankhamun and ancient Egyptian royalty. The first exhibition, "Tutankhamun and the Golden Age of the Pharaohs," has drawn 5 million visitors during its U.S. and London engagements, and has been visited by 250,000 schoolchildren since opening in June 2005.

"We are indeed grateful to businesses like RaceTrac that are rallying much-needed resources to make Tutankhamun accessible to schoolchildren in Georgia," said Bonnie Speed, director of the Michael C. Carlos Museum. "It takes an engaged community to understand the cultural and social significance of this exhibition -- its power to kindle the imagination, build bridges across cultures and provide an unparalleled educational experience. We hope that school systems across Georgia will take advantage of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity."

"Tutankhamun: The Golden King and the Great Pharaohs" is organized by National Geographic, Arts and Exhibitions International (AEI) and AEG Exhibitions, with cooperation from the Supreme Council of Antiquities in Egypt. Northern Trust is the presenting sponsor, and American Airlines is the official airline of the exhibition.

"Seeing artifacts from King Tut and other Valley of the Kings tombs is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity," said John Norman, president of Arts and Exhibitions International (AEI), one of the exhibition organizers. "We are committed to making every effort to ensure that this exhibition is accessible to students throughout the state, and RaceTrac's sponsorship helps make this possible."

ABOUT THE EXHIBITION

Premiering November 15, 2008 to May 25, 2009, at the Boisfeuillet Jones Atlanta Civic Center, "Tutankhamun: The Golden King and the Great Pharaohs" will feature striking objects from some of the most important rulers throughout 2,000 years of ancient Egyptian history, from the 4th Dynasty into the Late Period (about 2600 B.C. -- 660 B.C.). Derived from a variety of contexts, including temples and royal and private tombs, many of these artifacts have never before visited the United States.

The exhibition will highlight more than 50 treasures from Tutankhamun's tomb and more than 70 artifacts representing other pharaohs and notables, along with the latest scientific research about King Tut. The storyline will focus on the splendor of the Egyptian pharaohs, their function in the earthly and divine worlds, and what kingship meant to the Egyptian people.

Four galleries devoted to King Tut will correspond to the four rooms of his nearly intact tomb where the treasures were discovered by British explorer Howard Carter in 1922. Legendary artifacts from the antechamber, the annex, the treasury and the burial chamber will include Tutankhamun's golden sandals, jewelry, furniture, weaponry and statuary.

For more information about the exhibition, visit http://www.kingtut.org/.

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Atlanta Becomes 'Tutlanta' as Tickets Go on Sale Today for 'Tutankhamun: The Golden King and the Great Pharaohs'

PRNewswire/ -- "Tutlanta" launched today as tickets became available for "Tutankhamun: The Golden King and the Great Pharaohs," a new exhibition featuring more than 130 treasures from the tomb of celebrated pharaoh King Tutankhamun and other ancient Egyptian sites. The exhibition will premiere at the Atlanta Civic Center from November 15, 2008, to May 25, 2009, and is presented by the Michael C. Carlos Museum of Emory University.

To kick off fall's golden celebration, exhibition organizers announced a slate of Egyptian-themed activities and initiatives that will launch in conjunction with the exhibition. The "Egyptomania in Atlanta Bus Tour" will transport visitors on a chartered coach to explore Egyptian revival art and architecture in Atlanta with the Michael C. Carlos Museum's curator of Egyptian art, Dr. Peter Lacovara, as their guide. "TUT Trivia!" will incorporate King Tut-themed questions into trivia nights at select Atlanta locations. In January 2009, the Atlanta Opera and Emory University's Flora Glenn Candler concert series will present Philip Glass' opera "Akhnaten," which explores the great pharaoh's reign just before that of Tutankhamun.

Additionally, more than 75 businesses throughout the city will participate in a "Tutlanta" affinity card that all King Tut ticket-buyers will receive, entitling them to $250 worth of Egyptian-themed offerings and discounts at participating locations. From restaurants to health and beauty treatments to petcare, "Tutlanta" partner offers include "TROIS visits Egypt," a five-plate Egyptian-influenced menu at Trois for $25; "Pharaoh's Steam Bath," a custom treatment at the Atlanta Dog Spa; and "Pharaoh's Fire and Ice Facial" at Julio Cesar's Salon and Spa. A full listing of offers is available at http://www.tutlanta.com/.

Commissioner Dianne Harnell Cohen unveiled the official "Tutlanta" logo, which was created by a local Atlantan and will be featured on select exhibition merchandise and used regionally to promote the citywide celebration.

"Tutankhamun's magic still captures the hearts of people all over the world, even though more than 85 years have passed since the discovery of his amazing tomb," said Zahi Hawass, secretary general of Egypt's Supreme Council of Antiquities. "America has welcomed the golden king, and now he returns, bringing with him all the great pharaohs of Egypt."

Proceeds from the tour will go toward antiquities preservation and conservation efforts in Egypt, including the construction of a new grand museum in Cairo. Tickets and information are available at http://www.kingtut.org/ or http://www.carlos.emory.edu/.

The Michael C. Carlos Museum has developed educational materials in conjunction with the exhibition for elementary, middle and high school audiences. These supplemental materials will be available for download for free and will highlight topics such as childhood in ancient Egypt and how the journey to the afterlife was believed to occur.

"We are dedicated to the educational and inspirational value of exhibitions here in Atlanta," said Bonnie Speed, director of the Michael C. Carlos Museum. "The Tutankhamun exhibition presents a landmark opportunity to experience the richness of ancient Egypt's art and culture and to understand its global influence. We believe this exhibition, along with the educational materials and vibrant Egyptian-themed, citywide events we have developed, will offer our community a variety of ways to access Egypt's magical past."

The exhibition is organized by National Geographic, Arts and Exhibitions International and AEG Exhibitions, with cooperation from the Egyptian Supreme Council of Antiquities. Northern Trust is the presenting sponsor of the tour, and American Airlines is the official airline.

"Tutankhamun: The Golden King and the Great Pharaohs" is the second National Geographic exhibition dedicated to the remarkable treasures of King Tutankhamun and ancient Egyptian royalty. The first exhibition, "Tutankhamun and the Golden Age of the Pharaohs," was visited by nearly 4 million people during its four-city U.S. tour from 2005 to 2007, and will begin a three-city encore tour in Dallas later this year.

"'Tutlanta' was born from the excitement seen throughout the city since announcing the exhibition would make its U.S. premiere in Atlanta," said John Norman, president of Arts and Exhibitions International. "Residents and visitors to the Atlanta area are lucky to have so many opportunities to experience offerings in conjunction with the exhibition that will enhance their knowledge about this important period in world history."

Also today, Northern Trust, presenting sponsor of the exhibition, donated exhibition tickets to a first-grade class from Morningside Elementary School. Nearly 230 students from the Atlanta public school will be among the first to experience the exhibition.

"For nearly 120 years, Northern Trust has strived to increase social interaction and a sense of community, and integrate the arts into education and other outreach activities," said Frederick H. Waddell, president and chief executive officer of Northern Trust Corporation. "We look forward to sharing this extraordinary event with the Atlanta community, as well as visitors from around the world."

Exhibition organizers anticipate the exhibition will be a strong attraction for visitors throughout the region.

"American Airlines is thrilled to have a role in bringing 'Tutankhamun: The Golden King and the Great Pharaohs' to its Atlanta premiere," said Dan Garton, executive vice president of marketing for American Airlines. "As the official airline of the exhibition, we are pleased that American Airlines is helping to make it possible for these extraordinary objects to be seen by thousands of visitors."

ABOUT THE EXHIBITION

Premiering November 15, 2008, to May 25, 2009, at the Boisfeuillet Jones Atlanta Civic Center, "Tutankhamun: The Golden King and the Great Pharaohs" will feature striking objects from some of the most important rulers throughout 2,000 years of ancient Egyptian history, from the 4th Dynasty into the Late Period (about 2600 B.C. - 660 B.C.). Derived from a variety of contexts, including temples and royal and private tombs, many of these artifacts have never before visited the United States.

Tutankhamun was one of the last kings of Egypt's 18th Dynasty and ruled during a crucial, turmoil-filled period of Egyptian history. The boy king died under mysterious circumstances around age 18 or 19, in the ninth year of his reign (1323 B.C.).

The exhibition will highlight more than 50 treasures from Tutankhamun's tomb and more than 70 artifacts representing other pharaohs and notables, along with the latest scientific research about King Tut. The storyline will focus on the splendor of the Egyptian pharaohs, their function in the earthly and divine worlds, and what kingship meant to the Egyptian people.

Four galleries devoted to King Tut will correspond to the four rooms of his nearly intact tomb, where the treasures were discovered by British explorer Howard Carter in 1922. Legendary artifacts from the antechamber, the annex, the treasury and the burial chamber will include Tutankhamun's golden sandals, jewelry, furniture, weaponry and statuary.

TICKET INFORMATION

Tickets to the exhibition at the Atlanta Civic Center can be purchased at http://www.ticketmaster.com/. Group tickets for 10 or more are available by calling 1-866-52GROUP or visiting http://www.kingtut.org/. For additional information about tickets and pricing, please call 1-877-TUT-TKTS or visit http://www.ticketmaster.com/ or http://www.kingtut.org/.

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Michael C. Carlos Museum of Emory University Helps Bring King Tutankhamun to Atlanta

The Michael C. Carlos Museum of Emory University brings Tutankhamun: The Golden King and the Great Pharaohs to Atlanta this fall in partnership with the Egyptian Supreme Council of Antiquities, National Geographic, Arts and Exhibitions International and presenting sponsor Northern Trust.

Tutankhamun: The Golden King and the Great Pharaohs will be exhibited in Atlanta's historic Boisfeuillet Jones Atlanta Civic Center from November 15 to May 25. The exhibition, spanning 2,000 years of history, will include more than 130 artifacts from the tomb of Tutankhamun and other ancient Egyptian sites. This is the first time these treasures will be seen in the Southeast. To complement the Tutankhamun exhibition at the Civic Center, the Carlos Museum will showcase at its Emory campus location the photography of Harry Burton, the photographer who documented the Tutankhamun excavation when the tomb was discovered in 1922.

"The Michael C. Carlos Museum of Emory University is honored to bring to Atlanta one of the greatest artistic and cultural legacies of the ancient world. The people of Georgia will be able to experience first-hand the impact and relevance of these extraordinary treasures and we look forward to offering an array of educational programs to further illuminate the life and times of King Tutankhamun and the great pharaohs of Egypt," said Bonnie Speed, Director of the Carlos Museum.

The Carlos Museum is home to one of the few Egyptian collections in the southeastern United States as well as the only institution in Georgia dedicated to the research and display of ancient Egyptian art and culture. King Tutankhamun, endearingly called the "boy king," will find a welcoming community in which to reside for a short while. Speaking of the Carlos Museum at the April 2 announcement, Mayor Shirley Franklin said, "Those of us who live in Atlanta have access to the wonders of the world's civilizations right in our backyard,"

The Carlos Museum, known for its act of cultural cooperation when it identified and later returned what was most likely the mummy of Pharaoh Ramesses I to his home in Egypt in 2003, is a unique host for the King Tutankhamun exhibition. With scholars, curators, and conservators providing the interdisciplinary research and conservation required to maintain and understand ancient art and artifacts, the King Tutankhamun exhibition will provide rich historic and cultural perspectives to university scholars, academicians, scientists, collectors, students, and exhibition-goers interested in ancient Egypt -- even as it applies to modern times.

The Carlos Museum will lead the development of educational materials in conjunction with the exhibition for elementary, middle and high school audiences. These supplemental materials will be downloadable for free to classrooms across the country and will address topics such as childhood in ancient Egypt and the journey to the afterlife. Peter Lacovara, curator of ancient Egyptian arts and artifacts, said, "As the Carlos Museum's collections grow, they become increasingly important as a teaching and research resource for faculty and students at Emory and other universities." The Carlos Museum along with the Emory community provides a meaningful context for this exhibition and will serve as a research, education, and reflective opportunity for many.

Emory University President James Wagner, said, "Emory's dedication to courageous inquiry and the spirit of global partnerships are qualities we want to foster. The Carlos Museum of Emory University has helped to create a superb opportunity to reflect on and honor the ancient legacies of the world, their profound impact on our lives, and the importance of continued dialogue. We trust that King Tutankhamun's visit will open many doors."

The most recent U.S. tour of King Tut's treasures, Tutankhamun and the Golden Age of the Pharaohs, drew nearly 4 million visitors from 2005-2007, setting records in each city it visited. The 2005 visit marked the first time in more than 25 years that treasures from King Tutankhamun's tomb were shown in the United States.

Tickets can be reserved for the Atlanta run at www.carlos.emory.edu or www.kingtut.org.