Event Description
Venture on a spectacular journey through the most dramatic continent on earth: Africa. The story of this enchanted land is told through its relationship to water. Water crafts wild Africa, conjuring up life wherever it journeys… travelling above the plains on seasonal winds, cascading along raging rivers or sheltering coral cities. Travel to fantastic places, meet amazing creatures and uncover the fascinating secrets of this amazing place. Learn how spectacular thermal geysers help turn thousands of flamingos pink, and create the perfect conditions for them to breed; why the heat beating down on waterless dunes in the Namib Desert forces a lizard to dance; and why it snows on the equator.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions? We have answers! Explore frequently asked questions. For more information please contact us at Info@OMSI.edu or (503) 797-4000.
The Empirical Theater has an upper-level wheelchair accessible entrance and theater restrooms; due to the layout of the theater the lower-level main entrance is only accessible by stairs. Please check in with a Guest Services Representative or volunteer for assistance in locating these areas.
Several daytime documentaries and newer evening full-features offer closed captions, audio description, and volume amplification. The CaptiView closed caption units allow guests to see captions for their show by using a cup holder device that they can adjust within their view, and the Fidelio RX audio description units deliver descriptive narration and can also amplify the theater volume and dialogue.
The Showing Today signs updated daily at the front desk and theater entrance indicate which features offer closed captions (CC) and audio description (AD), while volume amplification is available for all theater content including events such as Science Pub and Reel Science.
Limited quantities of the following devices are available for theater guests and may be requested at either the Front Desk or Concierge Desk as well as from the theater usher:
- CaptiView closed caption (CC) viewing devices
- Fidelio RX audio description and volume amplification units
- Williams Sound NKL-001 neck loops designed to work with hearing aids equipped with a telephone coil or T-Switch
The rough inside measurements of the seats not including arm and back rests:
- Theater seats 16.5” wide and 21.5” deep
- Two VIP chairs 21.5” wide and 19” deep
- Additional VIP chair available by request is 23.5” wide and 21.5” deep
- The weight capacity for the VIP chairs are between 200lbs-250lbs
Earplugs can be requested from the Front Desk and Concierge Desk, and sensory resource packs that include:
- Noise reducing headphones
- Fidget toys
- Sunglasses
- Visual and auditory timer
- 2 pound weighted shoulder wrap
- Sanitizing wipes
- Our Empirical Café features:
Made-to-order coffee drinks
Grab-and-go salads and sandwiches
Fresh pastries
Beer and Wine (available evenings only)
Popcorn, candy, and a selection of classic movie theater treats
Films in the Empirical Theater start promptly with no previews. Be sure to arrive 10-15 minutes early.
For safety and enhanced viewing experience, re-entry is not allowed during short documentary films. For longer featured films, re-entry is allowed.
