DETROIT – The Michigan Science Center will introduce the Metro Detroit community to the emerging field of soundscape ecology with the debut of Global Soundscapes: Mission to Record the Earth, a new theater experience combining giant screen images, surround sound, and live presentation on April 20, Earth Day.

Global Soundscapes takes guests on a mission to investigate the dramatic soundscapes of Costa Rica’s rainforests, Hawaii’s coral reefs, and Mongolia’s vast grasslands. Viewers will learn about the tools that scientists use to record and analyze sounds; explore basic acoustics through interactive activities and incredible slow-motion footage; and discover what soundscapes tell us about the health of our planet.

“In the Global Soundscapes live interactive show, audiences will learn all about soundscapes: what they are, how scientists record them and why they are important in learning about the biodiversity of different ecosystems,” said Michigan Science Center Chief Learning Officer Cassie Byrd.

The film is sponsored by Toyota and will be shown in the recently-renovated Toyota Engineering 4D Theater, which is designed to inspire the next generation of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) learning. The film will be free to guests on April 20 during the museum’s free general admission event in honor of Earth Day. Space is limited and theater tickets will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Pre-registration is available at Mi-Sci.org.

“We’re thrilled to continue our relationship with the Michigan Science Center and our commitment to inspire future innovators with engaging content,” said Praveena J. Ramaswami, Toyota Community Relations and Corporate Communications. “Toyota is committed to building the future STEM workforce and fostering innovative thinking.”

Global Soundscapes will be shown on weekends through the spring with an expanded schedule this summer. Showtimes are available at Mi-Sci.org. After April 20, film tickets will be available for an additional $6 for the general public and $3 for MiSci members. General admission must be purchased with all theater tickets and is available for $14 for adults and $11 for children and seniors.

MiSci members receive free general admission. Tickets are available at Mi-Sci.org.