The Season Pass Podcast Discussion Boards

Pal · Joined: 01 Feb 2009 Posts: 57

The end of an era? The end of a show?

While it is hard to imagine Sea World without Shamu shows, how those iconic black and white whales are presented will probably never be the same.

News reports indicate Sea World will no longer allow guests to pet killer whales. I imagine that precaution will extend to the shows themselves. Every since I can remember, one lucky guest has been invited to interact close-up with Shamu in every show. It was a successful device for getting the audience to relate more closely with a magnificent animal. Even at this early stage, changes are sure to come here.

Believe tells an engaging, sentimental story. I had the opportunity to take it in twice in the past ten days. As someone whose second home is a kayak on the ocean, it always grabs me, despite the the small voice in my head that always whispers a caution not to over sentimentalize a powerful carnivore.

Sadly, I think the show's imagery will no longer work. As it is hard for the entire Sea World family, it must also be a blow to the creative minds behind the show, hitting far too close. I'm sorry for your loss.

It would be an appropriate time for Sea World to recast Shamu, to focus on the whale's natural behaviors and amazing abilities without the sappy, feel-good veneer. They might sell fewer Shamu plushes, but I doubt it. The public's respect and appreciation for killer whales might even grow.

Tragedy is an appropriate time for introspection.

Stingray · Joined: 20 Apr 2009 Posts: 403 Location: North Carolina

A very sad loss. While Sea World has begin doing the show again, they did a final tribute to Dawn Brancheau for the shows return. Here's the video of her tribute.

Link

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