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Eric

I know the Science Musuem in London have had good experiences with simulators since the mid 90's (if memory serves, they have had both Thompson and Sim-Ex products). They run these as secondary-charge attractions.  

At the Life Science Centre we have a "Motionride" theatre, from the now-defunct ShowScan.  Apart from the cost of converting it to play other formats when the manufacturers disappeared, it has been a success for us.  We try to tie films to the temporary exhibtion and/or science shows to create a marketable theme.  In fact, last year we had a fairly small exhibition on life in the oceans which we paired with the "Spongebob Squarepants" film from Iwerks to great effect.  We don't charge for the films, but use them to maintain a regularly-changing programme which supports repeat visits.

We were lucky - being a new centre the capital cost of the theatre was tied into the building costs.  The capital cost can be harder for existing institutions.  If you are planning to charge separately for a simulator, you may find that some suppliers will entertain a revenue share to offset capital costs.

Let us know how it goes - the film sounds cool ;-)

Andy


--------------- (Forwarded Message) --------------------------
From:   Eric Siegel <[log in to unmask]> 
Subject:   Simulator rides
Date:   Tue 01 Nov 2005 05:04 AM 

ISEN-ASTC-L is a service of the Association of Science-Technology 
Centers
Incorporated, a worldwide network of science museums and related 
institutions.
*****************************************************************************

Hello, all:

Can anyone here tell me, either on list or off list, about their  
experience with simulator rides?

I am interested in the software available, the best companies to deal  
with, what you are charging, and if possible some outline of the  
financial arrangements.  Above all, do you feel like these things are  
bringing people in and giving them a good experience?

I am asking because Martin Weiss is considering creating a new ride  
"6000 years of history, life from the beginning to now" ---just  
kidding...

TIA

Eric Siegel
Executive VP
    Programs and Planning
NY Hall of Science
47-01 111th Street
Queens, NY 11368
www.nyscience.org

 

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