Victorian Mummy Unwrapping

Our intriguing Victorian Mummy Unwrapping invites audiences to step back into an age when science, curiosity, and spectacle walked hand in hand.

In the nineteenth century, fashionable parlours across Britain hosted the most unusual of entertainments. The public unwrapping of Egyptian mummies. Scholars, collectors, and curious guests gathered as linen bandages were slowly revealed, each layer uncovering both history and mystery.

What unfolds on stage echoes those curious evenings where fact, folklore, and fascination mingled freely in the glow of candlelight.

Whether what lies within the wrappings is truly ancient or merely appears so is part of the evening’s intrigue.

This performance is a respectful reimagining of one of history’s most macabre entertainments, blending archaeology, theatre, mystery, and a touch of audience participation.

Do remember to bring your hankie. One never knows when it may be required.

The Mummy Unwrapping is recommended for ages 14 and up and runs approximately 60 minutes.

An optional VIP 30 minute Q and A and photo opportunity with Missus Mooney may be offered following the performance.

Filming of the performance is prohibited unless prior written permission has been given, although photographs are most welcome.

For more information, museum rates, or to book, please contact us.

Background:

Dr. Eugenia Mooney is a leading writer, translator, and lecturer in the field of Antiquarian studies.

Her research and lecturing on mummies has brought Dr. Mooney to the forefront. She has a reputation for being something of an oddity herself – often bringing mummified specimens on her lecture tours much to the delight and dismay of the attendees!

What people are saying:

The Mummy Unwrapping was an unforgettable experience like no other. [Ms. Groves] truly becomes the character of Dr. Mooney and takes you back in time. The evening is unique, cultural, educational, immersive and interactive, including a touch of humour and creepiness.
Tami Nail
Assistant Curator, Welland Museum

Having no idea WHAT to expect from a mummy unwrapping and having no idea these types of things ever took place I was pleasantly surprised and horrified. What a wonderful evening of entertainment this was. Thank you to Dr. Mooney and her expert knowledge. Who thought I would ever volunteer to LICK a mummy!
Kevin Landers

As a lover of archaeology and ancient Egypt, I was astounded at the reality of this performance; the mummy is spectacular as well as Dr. Mooney. She is highly versed in Egyptology and the unwrapping was everything one would expect in the Victorian era. It was filled with interesting information, humour and was slightly frightening all at the same time. It made me feel like I was in a different time and place in the universe. Well done and a MUST SEE!
Lilian D. aka Dolly Sprockets

The mummy unwrapping at Atlas Obscura Day was nothing short of astounding! Not knowing what to expect as Dr. Mooney began, it was with equal parts surprise, intrigue, and horror that we found the mummy was not just authentic, but a remarkable specimen! The Doctor’s charming dialogue served to both educate and entertain as she cut away the bandages, leaving the audience with an enthralling sight. The atmosphere and experience were like nothing else; it was like stepping into a different time.
Jason Grabher-Meyer

I did attend the unwrapping at the CNSE. It was fabulous. I boasted about to it a whole lot of people. So many were sorry to have missed it. Would love to attend another one!
Danute Dorion

I saw the mummy unwrapping at CNSE and it was wonderful! To me and many others, it was the best event of the convention. The attention to detail in the mummy was incredible and it is a great way to learn about how mummies really are. I highly recommend you see this if you have a chance.
Alexandre Adam

Bog Mummy

No that’s not a typo, BOG (not to be confused with “Bob”, our infamous Ptolemaic mummy).

Dr. Mooney’s latest acquisition is “Peat”, an Iron Age Bog Mummy. Dig into his fascinating history, as the doctor brings to the surface a story that will boggle the mind! Delve into the enigmatic depths of this captivating adventure, as it unravels the tales of human sacrifice, ritual, and death that were intricately woven into the very fabric of Iron Age culture.