Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI): Save the OMNIMAX Theater from being shut down

The Issue

The OMNIMAX Theater is one of only a handful of domed IMAX theaters in existence, and the only one in the northwest. The immersive experience created by the OMNIMAX theater viewing experience cannot be recreated in any other way, and adds a sense of realism to education & Hollywood films alike.

The OMNIMAX Theater at OMSI is childhood memory for many, and tearing the theater down to create a basic theater is a step backwards as well as a loss for the community.

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Benjamin WhitePetition Starter
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This petition had 32 supporters

The Issue

The OMNIMAX Theater is one of only a handful of domed IMAX theaters in existence, and the only one in the northwest. The immersive experience created by the OMNIMAX theater viewing experience cannot be recreated in any other way, and adds a sense of realism to education & Hollywood films alike.

The OMNIMAX Theater at OMSI is childhood memory for many, and tearing the theater down to create a basic theater is a step backwards as well as a loss for the community.

avatar of the starter
Benjamin WhitePetition Starter
Media inquiries

The Decision Makers

OMSI’s Board of Trustees & Emeritus Board
OMSI’s Board of Trustees & Emeritus Board
Oregon Museum of Science and Industry
Responded
“This response is from Mark Patel, VP of Marketing and Retail at OMSI: As you know we are planning an update to the equipment in our theater and I wanted to take some time to provide you further details. While our present large format film projection system continues to entertain visitors we, like many theaters across the country, are facing the inevitable demise of the film format. The transition to digital is a reality for everyone. In order not just to keep up, but to thrive in the changing business of theaters, planned upgrades include the addition of a state-of-the-art Dolby Atmos audio system and the latest 4K digital projection technology with 3D capability. This means we’ll soon be able to show more content, and in many forms, including live satellite feeds, Blu-ray material, and content from computers. Furthermore, the wealth of new opportunities will not be limited to expanded educational and documentary programming. The changes will also enable us to show more mainstream content during off-hours. Another very important advantage: we’ll finally have the ability to offer assistance to hearing impaired visitors, an option that does not exist in our current set up. We understand that the OMNIMAX theater is an important part of the history of both OMSI and Portland. We respect and honor that history. We must also adapt to meet the times. This upgrade allows us to continue to operate and to do so with expanded educational content. We believe that to be critical in delivering upon our mission of science education. Kind Regards, Mark Patel”
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Petition created on August 23, 2013