Beyond the Buzzer: Game Shows in America

FAIN: GI-300801-24

Strong Museum (Rochester, NY 14607-3998)
Christopher Bensch (Project Director: January 2024 to present)

Implementation of a permanent exhibition about the history and cultural influence of game shows in America.  

Game shows in America emerged in the 20th century from the confluence of several key cultural factors: the centuries-long dream that anybody with enough pluck and luck can strike it rich; the rise of mass media as the unifying glue of American culture; and the unique power of fans to actively shape the cultures they are consuming. Through the design, fabrication, and implementation of a 5,200-sq. ft. permanent, long-term exhibit tentatively entitled Beyond the Buzzer: Game Shows in America, The Strong National Museum of Play will create the first major museum exhibit dedicated to deeply exploring the historical evolution of game shows and their impact on/reflection of American society and culture. Digital formats and online exhibit elements will extend the exhibit’s educational value while broadening its reach and accessibility.