Sample Docent Script

Sample Docent Script

Hello, my name is _______________and I will be taking you through the first portion of the Toy Museum, which is the Barbie Doll exhibit. Raise your hand if you have been to the Museum before? (Wait for responses) Ok, great- welcome back to you and welcome to all of our first time visitors. We are so glad to have you.

Now, raise your hand if you ever owned a Barbie doll. (Wait for responses) Raise your hand if you have ever purchased one as a gift. (Wait for responses) Wow- that's almost all of you! Did you know that two Barbie-dolls are sold every second of the day somewhere in the world? She is quite popular and has been for some time. Does anyone know when did Barbie first hit the toy store shelves? (Call on a few raised hands) Those are great guesses! Well that takes us to the first display. (Move guests to the first advertisement for Barbie) Barbie actually had her debut in New York City at the American Toy Fair. She was created by Ruth Handler in 1959, who was also the co-founder of Mattel. Barbie was supposed to be a fashion doll for teenagers.

Does anyone know where Barbie got her name? (Call on a few raised hands) Barbie was named after Ms. Handler's daughter Barbara. (More and more facts about the early Barbie dolls- point to each as you share stories. Choose the ones that interest you the most. See museum book for more background on the individual dolls on display)

(Move guests on to the Ken display) Does anyone have a guess how Ken got his name? (Wait for responses) Yes, that's right- Ken was named after Ruth Handler's son! Ken was... more facts and stories about Ken.

That wraps up this portion of the tour. Does anyone have any questions or comments? (Give time for questions- answer questions as best you can and consult the museum book or the curator on hand for questions you are unable to answer)