SimEx-Iwerks, a pioneer in developing immersive cinematic experiences, has collaborated with Ultra-Accessible theme park Morgan’s Wonderland to create a fully immersive 4D experience where every visitor, regardless of ability, can feel the same thrill, movement, and enchantment.
Working closely with the Morgan’s Wonderland team, SimEx-Iwerks senior vice president Mike Frueh and vice president, technology and operations Alex Gil drew on their creative leadership and engineering expertise to develop the Ultra-Accessible 4D Magic Cinema, which features a first-of-its-kind wheelchair motion platform.
Richard Pretlow, president, Morgan’s Wonderland, says: “We were searching for a vendor who could design a theater that would accommodate users in wheelchairs without them having to transfer out of their wheelchair. With very little hesitation, SI accepted the challenge. They took our mission of Ultra Accessible and user-friendly attractions seriously.”
Milestone innovation
The motion platform was designed to provide visitors with three degrees of motion freedom and synchronised special effects, while taking into account considerations such as safety, experience, and reliability.
“We approached this platform with the mindset that accessibility should never come at the expense of thrill,” says Gil. “Every element was engineered to ensure guests using wheelchairs have the same experience as every other rider.”
In a significant advancement for inclusive immersive entertainment, the wheelchair motion base is now available as an option for new SimEx-Iwerks theatres and can be provided as a component for any theatre project.
SimEx-Iwerks aims to extend its inclusive options for its cinematic attractions, which currently include adjusted volume, 2D viewing, and reduced effects to meet individual sensory needs.
“The Morgan’s Wonderland project is one we’re truly proud to have been part of. It’s a thoughtful example of how collaboration can lead to meaningful progress, and we’re glad to contribute something that may benefit other venues looking to expand accessibility,” says Frueh.
Earlier this year, SimEx-Iwerk’s leadership team spoke to blooloop about the company’s rebrand, its vision for the future, and its latest products. Its attractions include 3D, 4D, motion simulation rides, and FlyRide theatres. Over the years, it has created over 350 attractions at theme parks, museums, zoos, and aquariums in more than 40 countries.
