Spectacular aerial performances such as this hydro hop have always been a crowd pleaser. Now, even more sophisticated choreography will be featured in "Believe." Photo credit: SeaWorld San Diego © 2005 by Sea World, Inc.

SeaWorld San Diego has embarked on the most ambitious killer whale show in the history of the park. “Believe,” the new Shamu show, will blend new killer whale behaviors with elaborate set pieces, music, choreography and state-of-the-art multimedia.

“ ‘Believe’ is definitely the most exciting killer whale show we have ever undertaken,” said SeaWorld general manager Andy Fichthorn. “Shamu has been our park’s icon for more than 40 years, and with new killer whale behaviors, original music, visual beauty and remarkable technology, our new show will showcase Shamu as never seen before.”

The magnificent presence of Shamu will be reflected in a new two-story stage. A spectacular water fountain will spray across the width of the show pool; three new underwater cameras will capture Shamu below the surface; a giant three-story whale tail will soar high above the set; and four LED screens will move and rotate as they highlight the power and beauty of Shamu and his crew. Many of the whales’ new behaviors will be choreographed to “Believe’s” original and inspiring musical score.

“‘Believe’ will take guests on a journey where anyone believes they can connect with these magnificent mammals,” said Mike Scarpuzzi, SeaWorld’s vice president of animal training. “This inspirational new show will reflect the close relationship our trainers have with the killer whales, as well as amaze our guests with a series of exciting new behaviors.”

Construction for the new show, which began in early 2006, includes the demolition of the Pacific Northwest-themed set. One of the largest hydraulic cranes on the West Coast was used to remove the totem poles, which flanked the Shamu Vision screen at “The Shamu Adventure” show since 1998. As SeaWorld prepares to debut “Believe,” guests are still enjoying performances by the world-famous killer whale. Shamu shows are presented at the Shamu: Close Up pool during key construction times in the main performance pool.  

Shamu has starred in more than 15 shows since the park’s opening in 1964, including “Shamu World Focus,” 1995-1998; “New Visions,” 1992-1995; “Baby Shamu Celebration,” 1989-1991; “25th Anniversary Show,” 1988-1989; “Shamu’s Water Symphony,” 1987-1988; “Shamu’s House of Douse” night shows, 1986-present; “Shamu Celebration,” 1984-1987; “Shamu Take a Bow,” 1982-1984; “This Is Shamu,” 1980-1982; “Shamu Goes to College,” 1977-1979; “Shamu the Yankee Doodle Whale,”1975-1977; “Shamu for Mayor,” 1974-1975; “Shamu Goes Hollywood,” 1971-1973; and “Doctor Do Little,” 1966-1971.

Also in 2006, SeaWorld San Diego will re-launch Dine With Shamu, the park’s only buffet-style restaurant that allows visitors to meet trainers and get a whale-size view of Shamu. Located at the new Shamu: Close Up pool, Dine With Shamu will feature new menu items, more daily dining opportunities, and increased viewing of the whales, all in a unique backstage environment.

              Other SeaWorld attractions include Journey To Atlantis, a wet and wild water coaster and 130,000-gallon Commerson’s dolphin habitat; “Pets Rule!”—a zany show where clever canines, curious cats and unpredictable pigs take charge and show humans who’s the boss; Shipwreck Rapids water raft ride; spectacular animal shows, interactive attractions, aquariums, rides and dining facilities. SeaWorld stays open late so guests have more time to enjoy all their favorites during Spring into Night, featuring extended hours, fireworks and a special nighttime dolphin show, “Ignight,” April 8–23. General SeaWorld admission is $53 for ages 10 and older; $43 for ages 3 to 9; and free for children two and under. Parking is $8 for cars and $10 for RVs and campers. Prices, hours and entertainment are subject to change. For general park information call 800.380.3203 or log on to www.seaworld.com.