Shedd Aquarium Unveils New Immersive Theater for 4D Experiences

Shedd Aquarium has officially opened a brand-new, fully reimagined theater for 4D Experiences, inviting guests to step into the world of penguins, sharks and octopuses. During these multi-sensory adventures, guests watch a short film showcasing the lives and behaviors of aquatic animals, while also feeling immersed in the environment with wind, mist, scents and more surprises.

The aquarium’s Phelps Auditorium has undergone a full renovation in partnership with SimEx-Iwerks and now features a screen that extends along the side walls to surround guests in the motion and color of ocean waves, tide pools and arctic landscapes. The first-of-its-kind Immersion Theater also includes a new seat design, choregraphed special effects, vibrant lighting and dynamic imagery.

Additionally, a newly designed pre-show space allows guests to interact with augmented reality animals and take photos with large-scale underwater visuals, bringing the aquatic environment to life before the show even starts.

“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,” said 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.”

SimEx-Iwerks and Shedd Aquarium have partnered since 2006 to bring engaging, family-friendly 4D experiences to millions of visitors. This latest project marks a new chapter in their nearly two-decade collaboration, introducing advanced technology, stunning visuals, and choreographed multi-sensory effects that fully immerse guests in the wonders of the aquatic world.

Guests can purchase an add-on 4D Experience for $5.95 per person ($2.95 for Members) when reserving tickets online, at the aquarium’s ticket kiosks or at Phelps Auditorium once inside the building. Three different shows are available to choose from:

• Penguins 4D: Waddle along with emperor and rockhopper penguins as they overcome daunting obstacles on both land and sea. With “spy cams” disguised as part of the huddle, groundbreaking technology brings viewers closer to these birds than ever before.

• BBC Earth’s Shark: A 4D Experience: Come face to face with some of the world’s most strange and mysterious shark species. These extraordinarily intelligent underwater giants each exhibit unique behaviors to navigate their ever-changing environment.

• Octopus: Blue Planet II 4D Experience: Dive beneath the surface to explore our planet’s oceans and one of the most captivating creatures that dwells there: the octopus. Discover how this eight-tentacled wonder masters physical and mental strengths to outwit and escape predators.

VISUALS: Find high-resolution photos here: https://personal.filesanywhere.com/guest/fs?v=8e71648f5b627575b2a6&C=50

Photo Credit: ©Shedd Aquarium/Brenna Hernandez