A Behind-the-Scenes Look at Refurbished Pantopia Theater

As you know, Opening Night Critters is now open in the refurbished Pantopia Theater at Busch Gardens. This show, which has taken over the former 4D Theater, features more than 28 different species of animals. It took designers 9 months of planning to complete the transformation of the theater. Renovations included brand-new lighting and sound packages, a large stage set, the addition of indoor animal holding facilities, and a conversion from floor level viewing into amphitheater seating.

Nearly 1,200 tons of dirt was used to elevate the seating in a way that allows every guest a great view of the stage. The individual seats themselves are uniquely thin in order to accommodate the 582 guests desired to be a part of the audience. The renovation as a whole required over 1,015 tons of concrete and took nearly 4 months to construct.

Developing the stage set for the animals to display their talents on was no small task. Set designers built dozens of props and trap doors into the stage itself to allow guests to remain on their toes as to where the next animal or stunt will appear.

It took their talented animal trainers over 1,850 hours of training to prepare the animals for their debut. Most of our furry and feathered friends performing were rescued from various animal shelters and some look forward to meeting you after the show.

To learn more about this, be sure to visit Busch Gardens Tampa's official Blog by clicking on this link!

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