Unique Prize: Alpaca Dung for "Die Sendung mit der Maus" Team
Buckle up, folks, because the world of awards just got a whole lot more interesting! The "Die Sendung mit der Maus" team and their illustrious host, Armin Maiwald, have received an unusual honor that's sure to leave you chuckling. The "Heinz Oberhummer Award for Science Communication" was bestowed upon them in the form of a jar filled to the brim with alpaca poop in Vienna on Monday. The prize, worth a cool 20,000 euros, was awarded for their ability to first tickle our funny bones and then make us ponder.
German Ambassador to Austria, Vito Cecere, described "Die Sendung mit der Maus" as the last "campfire" on TV for the family, having held its ground since 1971 with around 2,500 episodes under its belt. With an audience of millions still hooked, the show's creators have no intentions of calling it quits just yet.
"Maus" editor Heike Sistig explained that their approach to science has shifted over the years, moving away from how something is made and towards what we can do with it and what it was like years ago. Armin Maiwald, the beloved host of the show, appreciates the "Mouse" for being a timeless hit because it doesn't speak, leaving room for interpretation.
The "Heinz Oberhummer Award" was established in 2016 to honor the memory of the Austrian physicist Heinz Oberhummer, known for his entertaining approach to science. Oberhummer himself had a fondness for alpacas, making the poop-filled jar trophy a touching tribute to his love for these furry creatures.
The unusual award has garnered quite the buzz, drawing attention to "Die Sendung mit der Maus" and its unique approach to science communication. The alpaca-inspired prize stands as a testament to the show's ability to spark curiosity, laughter, and thought, proving that sometimes, the most unconventional methods can lead to the most meaningful conclusions.
