The Chrysler Foundation and Detroit Science Center Celebrate Grand Reopening of Chrysler IMAX® Dome Theatre

September 18, 2008 , Detroit -  The Chrysler Foundation and Detroit Science Center celebrated the grand reopening of the newly renamed and renovated Chrysler IMAX® Dome Theatre on Saturday, Sept. 20.

The renovation includes a new Chrysler IMAX Dome Theatre entry sign; an LED cove lighting system to provide increased illumination, dramatic pre-show special effects and significant energy savings. Also, a new rear projection booth was installed to increase stage lighting and staging for a new video projector while replacement carpeting was incorporated in the front and rear lobbies, among other additions.

“Chrysler has long been a leading sponsor of the Detroit Science Center, because we recognize promoting scientific literacy is vital for the competitive future of our region and our industry,” said Frank Klegon, Executive Vice President – Product Development, Chrysler LLC. “The Detroit Science Center is truly something that the entire community can be proud of and we are pleased to continue supporting this important educational institution located in the heart of Detroit.”

The Detroit Science Center and Chrysler LLC have deep ties and today marks another historic step in the relationship. The collaborative partnership extends back to 1999, when Chrysler was the first sponsor to contribute $1.5 million toward the Detroit Science Center’s first modernization capital campaign.

In addition, Chrysler was the first automaker to sponsor the Detroit Science Center Gala in 2001, and sponsorship of the gala is now rotated among the three Detroit auto manufacturers. In total, Chrysler has donated more than $3.9 million toward the Detroit Science Center’s exhibitions and operating expenses.

The Chrysler IMAX® Dome Theatre is Michigan’s only domed IMAX® theatre and one of only 62 IMAX® Dome Theatres in the world. The IMAX® screen measures 3.5 stories tall and 65.7 feet in diameter, seats 238 guests and delivers the highest quality in cinematic viewing in the world.

More than 1.5 million visitors have enjoyed scientific films including Dolphins; Mysteries of the Great Lakes; Mummies: Secrets of the Pharaohs; Grand Canyon Adventure and The Human Body at the IMAX® Dome Theatre. The Detroit Science Center will continue to operate the theatre and show educational films that make learning fun and entertaining.

"We’re excited about this new opportunity to continue our long standing relationship with Chrysler,” said Todd Slisher, Vice President of Science Programs for the Detroit Science Center. “The IMAX® Dome format combines the powerful and experiential nature of the giant screen with wonderful storytelling film content that brings audiences from the depths of the oceans to the vastness of space and every exciting locale in between. The Chrysler IMAX® Dome Theatre will continue to present wonderful, educational ‘big picture’ experiences to inspire a new generation of engineers and scientists."

Detroit Science Center
The Detroit Science Center is a hands-on museum that inspires its visitors to pursue and support careers in engineering, technology and science. The Science Center features Michigan’s only Chrysler IMAX® Dome Theatre; the Dassault Systèmes Planetarium; the DTE Energy Sparks Theater; the Chrysler Science Stage; an 8,700 square-foot Science Hall for traveling exhibits; hands-on exhibit galleries focusing on space, life and physical science; the United States Steel Fun Factory; a Kids Town exhibit gallery just for pint-size scientists; and a Special Events Lobby. The Science Center has served more than 2.1 million visitors since its grand re-opening on July 28, 2001. It is one of the 10 largest science museums in the country. For more information, please call 313.577.8400 or visit the website, http://www.detroitsciencecenter.org.

The Chrysler Foundation
The Chrysler Foundation is the primary source of charitable grants made by Chrysler LLC. The Foundation annually supports hundreds of charitable organizations with an emphasis on community growth and enrichment, arts and culture, education and youth development programs throughout the United States and, increasingly, the world. The Foundation's Good Neighbor, Good Citizen® programs make a positive, lasting investment in local communities where our employees, customers and neighbors live. Visit www.thechryslerfoundation.com.