New Immersion Theater at Shedd Aquarium Chicago

(eap) Shedd Aquarium in Chicago, Illinois, one of the oldest public aquariums in the world, recently opened a reimagined theater for 4D experiences. Visitors can now enjoy a multisensory journey into the world of penguins, sharks and octopuses. Effects such as wind, mist, scents and other surprises are designed to immerse audiences in the respective habitats.

© Shedd Aquarium/Brenna Hernandez

For the new attraction, the aquarium’s „Phelps Auditorium“ was extensively renovated in collaboration with SimEx-Iwerks. The auditorium now features a screen extending along the side walls, designed to surround guests with the movement and colours of ocean waves, tide pools and Arctic landscapes. The films shown are “Penguins 4D”, “BBC Earth’s Shark: A 4D Experience” and “Octopus: Blue Planet II 4D Experience”.

The new “Immersion Theater” also features a new seat design, choreographed special effects and vibrant lighting. In addition, a newly designed pre-show space allows guests to interact with augmented-reality animals and take photos in front of large-scale underwater visuals. In this way, the aquatic environment is brought to life even before the show begins.

© Shedd Aquarium/Brenna Hernandez

“4D Experiences in this reimagined theater will be more immersive than ever before, allowing our guests to not only learn about, but also feel what it’s like to be part of aquatic environments on the other side of the planet,” explained Colby Sellers, senior director of guest relations. “A core part of Shedd’s mission is to connect people with nature, and sensory experiences are a great way to spark a lifelong compassion for animals.”

 “This Immersion Theater was designed to push beyond the traditional 4D theater experience,ˮ added Sean McAllister, Senior Vice President, Attraction Development at SimEx-Iwerks. “From the expanded side-wall visuals and interactive pre-show to the choreographed lighting, environmental effects, and new seating technology, every element was designed to surround guests in the story.ˮ ■