One World at the Shedd Aquarium

Surrounded by tourists and families I embraced myself for the Shedd Aquarium’s aquatic show: One World. The uncomfortable pebbly concrete seating of the theatre stretched itself in a grand semi-circle across the aquatic pool’s length. The stair style seating flowed downward in a colosseum-like ramp ending at the eerily still pool as if to signal a gladiator-worthy battle would take place in front of our very own eyes.

Before I could settle comfortably into my seat, a wide-smiling man in a headset walked casually in front of the pool. This man spoke in a way it was clear he has to do this at least 5 days a week. All the adults could tell. He was smooth and rehearsed yet natural and engaging. He could turn out a question like, “Who here has been to Shedd before?” and elicit screams of approval rather than a tired raised hand.

As the cold open ended, he walked back into the side caves of the pool as a giant screen covered the window backdrop to the scene. The sheer scale of this feat was enough to capture the momentary attention of a largely pre-pubescent crowd, but there was more drama and flair to be had. As the screen stretched toward the surface of the pool, a battle hymn-esque tune blared into the space as 4 trainers entered stage left. Glistening in their black wetsuits and accessorized with a skinny silver whistle, they sauntered over a narrow trail onto an island in the pool. In a deep, booming voice the screen began to unravel a simple narrative about life on Earth. The dolphins are visible, small, and utterly adorable. They surface to greet their trainer friends one on one.

The narrator is slow, pausing meaningfully instead of punctuating any sentence. Life is everywhere…full of surprising beauty… The screen displays pictures of animals in the wild screen-saver style as the trainers splash their dolphin companions in between giving them snacks of glimmering dead fish from a silver bucket.

Among the extraordinary life on this planet is a species with incredible potential… a bold imagination… and a fearless reach… It is industrious… and creative… with the capacity to connect to others… and to love… that species is you… and that is me. The kids’ minds are blown by this staggering realization while images of bridges, skylines, and streets are projected. Once the mystery species was revealed, a video played of a young boy swimming through an ocean in flippers. What a segue!

After the narrator slowly turned out a few more accessible existential ponderings and obligations, the animals took center stage. Upbeat woodwinds filled the theatre as spotlights shined on selected trainer-dolphin partnerships. This one can spin! This one can back float! This one can swim in reverse upright using only its tail power! I have to admit I was delighted. A soothing children’s choir filtered in, We’re changing up a new…to try to see this world anew…Do the lyrics make sense? No. Are we all right there feeling this song? Yes!

As the song continued, the dolphins seemed to be going for a Cunningham choreography circa Roaratorio. Nothing matches the music on purpose, but when it did there was ample audible approval and attention from the stands. Some dolphins paired up in great floppy jumps arcing over the pool, others swam fast across the length in upside down or upright positions. The dolphins had a small set of moves in their arsenal but they knew how to play to a crowd.

In the next section of the show, another stately narration explained conservation. But this time it was a little defensive. Instead of the universal power of humankind to do good and connect to the Earth, there was a bit of a hey, remember we aren’t SeaWorld!!! underlying tone.

Instead of the dolphins appearing only as the focal point, they now did little flips here and there during the film section. Dolphins love this they do it in the wild! No treats here, forget you’re in a giant columned building downtown.

The narrative then broke into a documentary style tale of Cruz the sea lion. Found emaciated and disoriented, Cruz was saved by the aquarium. After discovering he was blinded by bullet fragments (there was a collective disheartened gasp here) he was nursed back to health by the Shedd staff. A polo and khakis-clad scientist at the Shedd is interviewed onscreen ripe with emotions. Her face fills the screen as if she is Big Brother. The moral messaging isn’t the subtlest but we all love Cruz. We’re rooting for Cruz! She’s teary, we’re sentimental, Cruz gives a trainer a kiss onscreen—what would the animal world be like without aquariums?

Before we could all decompress from the heart touching break in the stimuli-intensive show, two trainers appear between the pool and seating with a wheeled cart. With no warning the box is opened to reveal a pair of penguins who immediately jet out and across the walkway and into the arms of a different trainer. The segment flow isn’t natural especially when taking into account the retro game show style of music blasting as the penguins waddle onward. The loud, Vaudevillian departure from Cruz to the penguins seem to prove as a fan favorite but ends as if you had imagined it in an aquarium nachos-induced fever dream. No real introduction, no debrief.

After another conservation wrap-up screening and another partnered dolphin performance, another rescued animal is profiled. This time, its Dory the mixed breed dog.Yes, a dog. Internally or to a nearby friend, the audience either (????)s or (!!!!!)s with confusion or delight.

But this time, we see the onscreen star in real life. Alongside a trainer, Dory struts onto the walkway prepared with tricks in exchange for treats. Positive reinforcement is the big theme of the day in terms of training. After a few fun examples, the screen splits into a live stream of a dolphin with a trainer and Dory and her trainer. If one barks the other lets out an “eeek!” If one bobs their head so does the other. We’re all connected remember?

Once we say goodbye to Dory and learn the importance of adopting from shelters, there is no time left to waste. Between the young audience members, the jabbing seats, and the remaining square footage of the premium-priced aquarium it’s time to wrap it all up. The grand finale is the familiar smattering of different dolphins performing their classic moves—but this time with revolving spotlights shining on the pool, audience, and wherever else the light can reach. The lazy strobe effect continues until with a giant instrumental crescendo all six dolphins jump out of the water from the back of the pool in a unified, synchronized arch back into the water.

From its description on the website to its assortment of segments, the Shedd grapples with balancing what people expect and want with what people know in the post-Blackfish era of enlightenment.

“Not your typical live animal presentation, Shedd’s aquatic presentation features a rotating group of Shedd residents.

See and hear how animals like beluga whales, sea lions and dolphins at Shedd are cared for every day by their trainers. Then see how the Shedd way of training highlights their incredible natural behaviors.

Witness the beauty of aquatic life, feel the connection we all share with the living world and share the responsibility we all have to care for animal life on this planet.”

We as an audience demand entertainment, narrative, and some ultimately some cutesiness but also need to be able to walk away guilt-free, empowered, not clouded by the disconcerting techniques of any trainers or over-preparedness of the animals. While the smorgasbord of segments only further rush the pace of the twenty-minute show, the Shedd is aware of changes modern aquariums must implement in order to sustain an engaged audience and aren’t afraid to mix it all up in one sitting.

2,769 Comments

  • Tp-link repeater login commented on December 1, 2023 Reply

    To proceed with the Tp-link repeater login, there are a few things you require. You must have the default IP address, username, and password of the repeater. With the help of the IP address, you can access the login page. After that, you can use the default username and password to log into the repeater’s web interface. Now, you can start using the repeater properly. If you still require further assistance, reach out to our experts straight away.

  • Ali azad commented on December 1, 2023 Reply

    very informative fitnesmark

  • shara commented on December 1, 2023 Reply

    “No doubt this is an excellent post I got a lot of knowledge after reading good luck. Theme of blog is excellent there is almost everything to read, Brilliant post QR Code Generator

  • shimul commented on December 1, 2023 Reply

    I’ve read some good stuff here. Definitely worth bookmarking for revisiting. Barcode for WooCommerce

  • Currency More commented on December 1, 2023 Reply

    thenk you for shering information

    https://currencymore.com/

  • Doctors Digest commented on December 2, 2023 Reply

    Great Information. Thanks
    Read more

  • Wallace Diner commented on December 2, 2023 Reply

    Great Information. Thanks
    Read more

  • Ilmilog commented on December 2, 2023 Reply

    “Great article! I found the information very insightful and relevant to this topic. In my experience, you are working well for all. By the way, I recently wrote a detailed post on a similar subject on my blog. If you’re interested, you can check it out click Here. I think our readers would benefit from the exchange of ideas. Keep up the excellent work!”

  • twitch ad block commented on December 2, 2023 Reply

    twitch ad blockSi te encanta transmitir en Twitch, puedes descargarlo e instalarlo. twitch adblock y tener programas ilimitados. Puede utilizar la extensión de forma gratuita y disfrutar de la transmisión en vivo sin anuncios.

  • john commented on December 2, 2023 Reply

    Rent Car Near Me Dubai provided me with a seamless and convenient car rental experience. As someone who needed a car for a short period, their close proximity to my location was incredibly convenient. Their website was easy to navigate, allowing me to quickly find and book a car that suited my needs.

  • jivan commented on December 3, 2023 Reply

    Today’s Price is the name of a website that provides reviews of home and kitchen appliances
    https://gheymatroz.ir/

  • Flip Huze commented on December 4, 2023 Reply

    Assignment Help services provide students with online assistance with their academic assignments, such as essays, research papers, case studies, and homework. Do My Assignment services take care of the entire assignment process for students, from research to writing to editing.

  • Flip Huze commented on December 4, 2023 Reply

    Assignment Help services are online platforms that provide students with assistance with their academic assignments, such as essays, research papers, case studies, and homework. These services can be especially helpful for students who are struggling with a particular subject, don’t have enough time to complete their assignments, or need help with editing and proofreading.

  • Bushi commented on December 4, 2023 Reply

    It’s really great. Thank you for providing a quality article. Now you should create a Instagram & TikTok Trending Video using goodbye 2023 capcut template

  • Kavya commented on December 4, 2023 Reply

    This is really helpful post and very informative there is no doubt about it. If you are facing to Brother Printers Setup Wireless or you can connect with expert Toll free number (888) 404-6710.

  • หวยออนไลน์ commented on December 5, 2023 Reply

    HUAY5 สุดยอดเว็บหวยออนไลน์มาแรงอันดับ 1 ในนาทีนี้ ต้องที่นี่เท่านั้น มีทุกหวย พร้อมสูตรแทงหวยต่างๆ มาแทงกันที่นี่รับรองว่าหมานๆทุกคน

  • เครดิตฟรี commented on December 5, 2023 Reply

    สมัครวันนี้รับเครดิตฟรีทันทีที่ 222WINBET! มีโอกาสเดิมพันและรับโบนัสแบบไม่ต้องฝากเงิน!

  • John Alen commented on December 5, 2023 Reply

    Nice Blog Bro Keep it Up Thanks to u separated dth surface drill rig us.

  • nyc florist commented on December 5, 2023 Reply

    I think this is an informative post and it is very useful and knowledgeable. therefore, I would like to thank you for the efforts you have made in writing this article.
    nyc florist

  • nyc florist commented on December 5, 2023 Reply

    Your post is very helpful to get some effective tips to reduce weight properly. You have shared various nice photos of the same. I would like to thank you for sharing these tips. Surely I will try this at home. Keep updating more simple tips like this.
    nyc florist

  • Anita commented on December 5, 2023 Reply

    73% of app downloads are the result of a search in the Appstore & Playstore. App reviews and app ratings are the major factors for ranking your app on higher positions on Appstore & Playstore. We help you to get better reviews and ratings for your app.Buy app store ratings for your app and get more downloads.

  • bipoc winemakers commented on December 5, 2023 Reply

    I truly value this superb post that you have accommodated us. I guarantee this would be helpful for a large portion of the general population.
    bipoc winemakers

  • bipoc winemakers commented on December 5, 2023 Reply

    Nothing compares to Weber using Genesis sort of grills. That is certainly the type gas grills which have been that will always make sure that they deliver a high performance part of down interval
    bipoc winemakers

  • Flip Huze commented on December 6, 2023 Reply

    Assignment Help services provide students with online assistance with their academic assignments, such as essays, research papers, case studies, and homework. Do My Assignment services take care of the entire assignment process for students, from research to writing to editing.

  • Corteiz commented on December 7, 2023 Reply

    Corteiz Cargos at a Corteiz Clothing Official UK Store. Get Amazing High-Quality Crtz Cargos Big Discount With Free Shipping Worldwide.

    https://corteizcargosuk.com/

  • Lahore View City commented on December 7, 2023 Reply

    Nice post. Keep sharing such informative content:
    Lahore View City

  • Heather Anderson commented on December 8, 2023 Reply

    Thanks for the information, great blog keep sharing stuff like this.
    https://www-upsers.us

  • Julie commented on December 8, 2023 Reply

    Thanks for the lovely helpful article.
    LiteBlue Epayroll

  • Jumaima commented on December 8, 2023 Reply

    Great and helpful content by UPSers Login

  • Rombo commented on December 8, 2023 Reply

    Kode Slot Pragmatic Olympus: Petualangan Tak Terlupakan di Dunia Perjudian Online! Dalam dunia perjudian online yang semakin berkembang, Kode Slot Pragmatic Olympus telah menjadi sorotan utama bagi para pecinta mesin slot. Kode slot ini tidak hanya menawarkan pengalaman bermain yang seru, tetapi juga memberikan kesempatan untuk meraih kemenangan besar.

  • madhu24 commented on December 8, 2023 Reply

    Hi, That looks great, Very nice and informative content. I am a blogger and I own a site. If you are interested in Fashion write for us
    , Please contact me using the link if you need any guest post services.

  • Anita commented on December 9, 2023 Reply

    App store optimization (ASO) is best bet to gain low-cost app exposure, resulting in boosted app downloads, a higher number of quality users, and increased revenue. AppBoostability offers you advance ASO service at lowest cost. Use coupon code special30at checkout to get special 30% OFF

  • Rahul Sharma commented on December 9, 2023 Reply

    Nice Discussion

  • Anita commented on December 10, 2023 Reply

    App Store Optimization will work like miracle pill that will push your app to the top of the results. It’s an ongoing process that constantly needs to be updated .ASO is the most cost-effective and proven app marketing technique .Try our ASO service now

  • seo commented on December 10, 2023 Reply

    Very nice article, I enjoyed reading your post, very nice share, I want to twit this to my followers. Thanks!.I know your expertise on this. I must say we should have an online discussion on this. Writing only comments will close the discussion straight away! And will restrict the benefits from this information.Superbly written article, if only all bloggers offered the same content as you, the internet would be a far better place.. 만안구출장안마

  • black owned wine business commented on December 10, 2023 Reply

    A very awesome blog post. We are really grateful for your blog post. You will find a lot of approaches after visiting your post. I was exactly searching for. Thanks for such post and please keep it up
    black owned wine business

  • florist in new york manhattan commented on December 10, 2023 Reply

     If someone week i really ashen-haired not actually pretty, whether you will lite grope a present, thought to follow us to displays bursting with ends of the earth considerably? Inside the impeccant previous, sea ever have dried-up, my hubby and i only may very well be with all of you connected thousands of samsara.
    florist in new york manhattan

  • adam commented on December 10, 2023 Reply

    Big Vape Bar invites you to embark on an epicurean journey through a world of tantalizing e-liquids. Savor the randomness of RandM Tornado 9000 as you navigate our diverse selection for an unforgettable vaping experience.

  • Big Vape Bar commented on December 10, 2023 Reply

    Big Vape Bar invites you to embark on an epicurean journey through a world of tantalizing e-liquids. Savor the randomness of RandM Tornado 9000 as you navigate our diverse selection for an unforgettable vaping experience.

  • black owned winery commented on December 11, 2023 Reply

    This blog was extremely helpful. I really appreciate your kindness in sharing this with me and everyone else!
    black owned winery

  • Johntrump commented on December 11, 2023 Reply

    If you’re looking for Roofing Services in Amarillo, TX, consider reaching out to ExcelCG. ExcelCG is a reputable company that specializes in providing high-quality roofing solutions.

  • black owned winery commented on December 11, 2023 Reply

    I know your aptitude on this. I should say we ought to have an online discourse on this. Composing just remarks will close the talk straight away! What’s more, will confine the advantages from this data. 
    black owned winery

  • new york city florists commented on December 11, 2023 Reply

    You make so many great points here that I read your article a couple of times. Your views are in accordance with my own for the most part. This is great content for your readers.
    new york city florists

  • new york city florists commented on December 11, 2023 Reply

    I was very impressed by this post, this site has always been pleasant news Thank you very much for such an interesting post, and I meet them more often then I visited this site.
    new york city florists

  • valentine's day flower delivery nyc commented on December 11, 2023 Reply

    You’ve completed in excellent work. t suggest to my frtends ind personilly wtll certitnly dtgtt. t’m conftdent they’ll be gitned from thts webstte.
    valentine’s day flower delivery nyc

  • Johntrump commented on December 12, 2023 Reply

    When it comes to safeguarding your commercial property from the unpredictable Texas weather, ExcelCG stands out as the premier choice for professional austin commercial roof replacement company

  • 메이저놀이터추천 commented on December 12, 2023 Reply

    I’m writing on this topic these days, 메이저놀이터추천, but I have stopped writing because there is no reference material. Then I accidentally found your article. I can refer to a variety of materials, so I think the work I was preparing will work! Thank you for your efforts.

  • Arman underpin commented on December 12, 2023 Reply

    I love how you highlighted the interconnectedness of our world through the lens of the Shedd Aquarium. It’s evident that the visit left a lasting impression on you, and your storytelling brought out the magic of that day. Your personal anecdotes and reflections made the post not just informative but also incredibly relatable. It’s like you invited us to share in the awe and wonder.
    best brunch nyc

  • Edu Seekho commented on December 12, 2023 Reply

    Get certified from EduSeekho, a membership-based career accelerator platform, and learn the programming skills to get the dream tech job you want.

  • seo commented on December 13, 2023 Reply

    Admiring the time and effort you put into your blog and detailed information you offer!..the person who create this post it was a great human..thanks for shared this with us.This article gives the light in which we can observe the reality. this is very nice one and gives indepth information. thanks for this nice article… 구리출장마사지

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *