Vanessa Madu explores the mathematics of time keeping across the globe

Why does the International Date Line look like it was drawn by a toddler? On a globe, drawing a line that separates one day from the next sounds simple enough. So why does it zigzag across the Pacific Ocean in a way that looks like a mistake?

Mathematician Vanessa Madu is here to explain. Join her as she investigates the surprisingly mathematical problem of keeping track of time on a spinning sphere. Along the way, you'll discover why the Date Line exists in the first place, how centuries of history and geopolitics have bent it wildly out of shape, and the surprising mathematical consequences that mean now, for two hours a day, there are three calendar days happening all at once.

Blending mathematics, geography, history and a good amount of curiosity, this talk explores how what should be a simple straight line on a map tells a remarkable story of the unexpected things that can happen when maths meets human decision making.

This is a theatre event for children and adults to enjoy together. We recommend our family talks for children aged 7–13, though they can be enjoyed by audiences of all ages.

All young people under the age of 13 need to be accompanied by a paying adult and those aged 4 and above need a ticket to attend.

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Image credit: Vanessa Madu

Description supplied by the event organiser.