February 2, 2022—Discovery Place Science, the leading hub for science learning in the Carolinas, announced today that it has replaced its IMAX film projection system with IMAX’s next-generation laser technology designed for 180-degree domed theatre environments thanks to a partnership with Accenture. The theatre has been closed since March of 2020 and undergone extensive renovations, including installing IMAX’s groundbreaking technology as well as new seats, carpet, speaker system and air filtration. Discovery Place Science will welcome audiences back to the upgraded Accenture IMAX® Dome Theatre on February 11 with the release of The Beatles: Get Back – The Rooftop Concert.
“With Discovery Place Science, we are leveraging the promise of technology and human ingenuity to deliver an innovative, immersive theatre experience that can flexibly educate, connect, and entertain visitors,” said Eric Mauntel, Charlotte Office Managing Director, Accenture. “Discovery Place Science is a landmark cultural and educational institution in Uptown Charlotte, and this new experience will be transformative not only for the Museum and Uptown, but for all of Charlotte and the Carolinas.”
The upgraded IMAX® with Laser represents a quantum leap forward in cinema technology–providing audiences with the sharpest, brightest, clearest and most vivid digital images ever combined with a whole new level of immersive audio. The new technology will enable Discovery Place to deliver a wider array of the highest-quality digital content reaching beyond films to include two-way international video conferencing, video gaming competitions and an extraordinary planetarium. The updated theatre will continue offering brilliant documentaries for which IMAX is known in addition to blockbuster films and new kinds of cutting-edge educational experiences.
“We are grateful we were able to take this time when our theatre was closed due to the pandemic to enhance the IMAX Experience® for visitors to Discovery Place Science,” said Catherine Wilson Horne, Discovery Place President and CEO. “The upgraded theatre will continue to present beautiful, educational experiences to inspire the next generation of thinkers and scientists while also reaching adult audiences through blockbuster presentations.”
In 1991 The Charlotte Observer IMAX® Dome Theatre opened at Discovery Place Science, which was made possible by The Charlotte Observer and the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation. It was the first giant-screen motion picture theatre to open in the Carolinas. Continuing in that tradition of being on the forefront of innovation and technology, the upgraded Accenture IMAX® Dome Theatre is only the eighth to open in the U.S.
Re-opening Discovery Place’s transformed IMAX experience with The Beatles: Get Back – The Rooftop Concert will offer audiences a chance to relive Beatlemania and experience the historic and iconic rooftop concert remastered for IMAX. Only in select global IMAX locations for a limited time, this immersive theatrical concert event will enhance the Beatles’ fan experience and is perfect for music and film lovers of all ages.
The Accenture IMAX® Dome Theatre, featuring IMAX’s next-generation dome laser technology, was designed from the ground up specifically for IMAX dome theatres. The 4K laser projection system is equipped with a new optical engine and suite of proprietary IMAX technologies capable of filling the full dome screen with maximum resolution and sharpness, unparalleled brightness, industry-leading contrast and an expanded color gamut. The new system also includes IMAX’s state-of-the-art sound technology that delivers the ultimate in power and precision. IMAX’s six laser-aligned loudspeakers distribute equal volume throughout the theatre to create an optimum listening environment that ensures every seat is the best in the house. Whether it’s a pin drop or feeling the heart-palpating force of a volcano, audiences will experience complete audio immersion.
About Discovery Place Science
Discovery Place Science is the leading hub for science learning in the Carolinas—dedicated to the exchange of ideas, scientific exploration and creative expression to stimulate innovative problem-solving and learning. The Museum brings relevant, contemporary science to life through groundbreaking exhibitions, interactive educational programming and hands-on activities. Located in Uptown Charlotte at 301 N. Tryon Street, convenient parking is available in the Museum’s parking deck—the Carol Grotnes Belk Complex—at the corner of Sixth and Church streets. For more information about Discovery Place Science, call 704-372-6261, visit discoveryplace.org, or connect with Discovery Place Science on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.
About Accenture
Accenture is a global professional services company with leading capabilities in digital, cloud and security. Combining unmatched experience and specialized skills across more than 40 industries, we offer Strategy and Consulting, Interactive, Technology and Operations services — all powered by the world’s largest network of Advanced Technology and Intelligent Operations centers. Our 674,000 people deliver on the promise of technology and human ingenuity every day, serving clients in more than 120 countries. We embrace the power of change to create value and shared success for our clients, people, shareholders, partners and communities. Visit us at accenture.com.
Source: Discovery Place