ORLANDO, Fla. \u2013 The lights drop. The ceiling disappears. And in seconds, Orlando Science Center visitors will feel like they\u2019ve left Earth behind.<\/p>\n
The science center is unveiling The Dome by Dr. Phillips Charities on Monday, June 1, a fully transformed immersive theater designed to thrill audiences with 8K laser projection, 30,000 watts of 7.1 surround sound, a nearly seamless NanoSeam screen and new luxury seating.<\/p>\n
For nearly three decades, the domed theater has been a centerpiece of the Orlando Science Center experience \u2014 welcoming nearly four million guests and standing out as one of the last museum theaters in the United States to show analog film, according to the science center.<\/p>\n
Now, after a top-to-bottom overhaul, the iconic venue is launching a new chapter that combines next-generation visuals and audio with the return of planetarium-style storytelling.<\/p>\n
\u201cOrlando Science Center is a home for bold experiences that inspire curiosity and wonder,\u201d said JoAnn Newman, the science center\u2019s president and CEO, in a prepared statement. \u201cThe Dome by Dr. Phillips Charities is a step forward in how we present storytelling that educates and inspires contemporary audiences.\u201d<\/p>\n
What\u2019s new inside the Dome<\/p>\n
The reimagined theater features eight Christie Griffyn projectors delivering 8K laser imagery that the science center says is brighter and sharper than ever before.<\/p>\n
The space was also physically redesigned to improve sightlines and expand capacity. The former central projection structure was removed, and seating was increased to 315 guests.<\/p>\n
A major visual upgrade comes from the theater\u2019s new screen system: 419 individual panels create a nearly seamless surface intended to maximize clarity and immersion.<\/p>\n
Audio is a centerpiece, too. A 7.1 surround sound system delivers more than 30,000 watts \u2014 built to make audiences feel like they\u2019re under a rocket launch, inside an ocean storm or drifting through deep space.<\/p>\n
The experience starts before the show<\/p>\n
Orlando Science Center also redesigned the lobby leading into the Dome, adding a dramatic LED wall and large-scale projection surfaces to wrap visitors in motion and light even before they take their seats.<\/p>\n
The updated lobby also includes automated vending with popcorn, candy and drinks.<\/p>\n
A return to planetarium roots<\/p>\n
The Dome\u2019s relaunch also signals a return to Orlando Science Center\u2019s planetarium heritage.<\/p>\n
From 1972 to 1984, the organization was known as the John Young Museum and Planetarium, and planetarium-style programs helped define its early years.<\/p>\n
The Dome\u2019s new programming lineup is expected to include planetarium shows, giant screen films, full-dome educational presentations and musical laser light shows.<\/p>\n
The premiere schedule includes a live planetarium experience led by Orlando Science Center presenters exploring the skies above Orlando \u2014 from constellations and planets to distant phenomena at the edge of the universe.<\/p>\n
Who helped make it happen<\/p>\n
The project was supported through the science center\u2019s Unlock Science Campaign, including contributions from Dr. Phillips Charities, Orange County Arts and Cultural Affairs, the Bert W. Martin Foundation and The Magruder Foundation, the science center said.<\/p>\n
\u201cDr. Phillips Charities is dedicated to the education and enrichment of our community and proud to further our legacy of support with this amazing venue,\u201d said Ken Robinson, president and CEO of Dr. Phillips Charities, in a prepared statement.<\/p>\n
Plan your visit<\/p>\n
The Dome by Dr. Phillips Charities premieres Monday, June 1 at Orlando Science Center.<\/p>\n