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Clearwater Marine Aquarium unveils new IMAX theater
By HARLAN WEIKLE
| Article published on Wednesday, Dec. 26, 2007 |
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| Photo by HARLAN WEIKLE |
| Clearwater Marine Aquarium’s first IMAX production features narration by former WFLA news anchor Bob Hite. |
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ISLAND ESTATES – Dignitaries, aquarium friends and volunteers assembled at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium recently to catch the first showing of CMA’s new IMAX theater.
Built into the walls of an aging swim tank, the IMAX may be the ultimate recycling project for this venue known for its ceaseless work at salvaging the lives of stranded or injured sea life.
The new theater replete with sound absorbent carpeting, plush seating and an ear splitting surround sound system, is designed to showcase marine life with educational programming in the hope of bringing visitors yet another glimpse into the extraordinary world of our marine habitat.
After a few words of welcome from Aquarium CEO Dave Yates, Clearwater Mayor Frank Hibbard acknowledged the contribution that CMA and its mostly volunteer staff have made to Clearwater, which he said values the institute as a premier member of the community.
The first feature film to be written and produced for the new IMAX was narrated by retired WFLA news anchor Bob Hite, an avid waterman who has supported the aquarium’s rescue and research programs for many years.
Hite’s familiar baritone enfolded the capacity audience as he detailed the operations of CMA’s rapid emergency response team. Likening the rescue operation to that of Pinellas County’s fire and rescue teams, the film featured actual footage of EMS teams being dispatched mixed with film of the aquarium rescue team’s own emergency vehicle in action.
The film also featured Winter, the dolphin, CMA’s star resident who has made headlines around the world with her remarkable tale of rescue and survival.
Call CMA at 441-1790 for information on future IMAX productions.
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Article published on Wednesday, Dec. 26, 2007
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