Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS)

Honoring history
and wildlife

Launching 4D Theaters for guests at the Central Park Zoo and New York Aquarium.

Scroll to explore ↓

overview

The Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) faced a common dilemma in the zoo and aquarium industry: how to balance educational mission with entertainment appeal and financial sustainability.

The challenge

  • Generate significant, consistent revenue and increase visitor satisfaction

  • Central Park Zoo wanted to seamlessly integrate with existing historic structures

  • New York Aquarium needed increased throughput in a well-designed attraction outside of the aquarium that complements the experience

  • Deliver film content to entertain and align with mission

strategy

A SimEx-Iwerks solution

At SimEx-Iwerks, we craft solutions rooted in understanding our clients’ unique needs. WCS is a long-term partner, having worked with us since 2003. The Bronx Zoo featured two 4D Theaters for over 10 years.

New York Aquarium had an SI18-seat motion reactor for many years. With the aquarium’s attendance, the need for a larger theater to accommodate demand. We designed and installed a 50-seat theater fully themed with the aquarium’s new branding. After two years of operation, a second 50-seat theater was added.

Central Park Zoo had an education classroom in a historic building on a high traffic pathway. We proposed a 75-seat 4D Theater with fun content to attract guests. This attraction allowed the zoo to start a package ticket—increasing overall revenue.

What set us apart was our ability to create experiences from scalable designs and deliver content to attract guests allowing the zoo and aquarium to add an indoor guest experience aligning with their mission and increasing revenue.

hear from our partner

"I would recommend SI. They have been a great partner. During a hurricane, they pulled and replaced our theaters at no cost to us-they did not try to nickel and dime us."

Niko Radjenovic, Vice President, Business Services, Wildlife Conservation Society

the result

wows
to wins

01

Significant revenue growth

Both venues saw substantial increases in per-capita spending.

02

Enhanced visitor experience

The theaters became staple attractions, driving repeat visits.

03

Pricing strategy transformation

Success of all-inclusive tickets led to adoption of higher base ticket prices.

04

Long-term partnership

We’ve been working with Central Park Zoo for 14 years and 19 years at New York Aquarium.

05

Top-tier training

Training on theater operations and sales tactics ensures clients are set up for success.

hear from our team

“We understand the challenges that executives face at institutional venues and how our attractions can be seamlessly added for the guest experience and to support mission and deliver revenue. We propose deal structures that foster a long-term partnership.”

sean mcallister, simex-iwerks senior vice president, attraction and development

Looking for an entertainment company that puts you first?

We tailor our service modal to the support you need the most. From training to top-notch marketing materials, let us help you achieve your goals.