October 19, 2023—The Fort Worth Museum of Science and History announces the brand new “Jane & John Justin Foundation Omni Theater.” The full-scale renovation project will provide the theater with an ADA-accessible space, a new lobby and a completely digitized 8K LED viewing experience, powered by Cosm Technology. Byrne Construction Services, the builders for the original Omni IMAX Theater, have been selected as the General Contractor for the project with Bennett Partners providing the architectural design services in support of the Omni Theater renovation.
Opened in 1983, the Omni Theater has long been a pillar of the Fort Worth Museum, utilizing its IMAX projection technology to serve and entice over 10 million visitors. Guests of the museum theater were taken on a Fort Worth Flyover, exploring the world around them through events, documentaries, and blockbuster films.
“The Omni Theater is an integral part of the history of the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History. We are excited to bring extraordinary learning to life through the installation of a brand-new, next generation digital 8K LED dome together with a much-needed modernization of our theater thereby delivering a complete transformation of the guest experience,” says Orlando Carvalho, president of the museum. “For so many, the Omni Theater is synonymous with nostalgia, community, wonder and fun. This renovation will bring all of those emotions to our future guests and continue the Museum’s tradition of interpreting the science and the stories of Texas and the Southwest.”
With this renovation, a new generation of Omni-goers can view transformational content in a completely digital LED dome with 8K resolution. The Omni Theater, powered by Cosm Technology, will be the world’s first LED digital dome of its size in a museum, positioning the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History as a world leader in the application of state-of-the-art visual technology. Using Cosm’s technology, the Jane & John Justin Foundation Omni Theater can produce completely immersive multi-video presentations, corporate events, product launches, experiential fundraisers, and more for a best-in-class viewing experience that stimulates audience engagement.
“I have fond memories of visiting the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History as a child and will never forget visiting the Omni for the first time,” said Jeb Terry, CEO and President at Cosm. “I am honored to partner with them now to help inspire and entertain guests for decades to come. Cosm’s technology and content capabilities will empower the Museum to deliver next-level experiences, and I look forward to seeing how the new Omni Theater leaves museum-goers in complete wonder and awe — just as it did for me years ago.”
With a 75-year history building the largest and most prestigious planetariums and science centers worldwide, Cosm’s category-defining technology, owned media, and immersive entertainment solutions seamlessly bridge the virtual and physical worlds, transporting audiences anywhere real or imagined within a physical and social environment.
Funding for the Jane & John Justin Foundation Omni Theater project comes from: The Amon Carter Foundation, The City of Fort Worth, The Jane & John Justin Foundation, Leo Potishman Trust, Tarrant County, The Burnett Foundation, William F. Scott Foundation, The Paul E. Andrews Foundation, and The Ryan Foundation.
Renovations for the Omni Theater will be approximately a 16-month process beginning in May 2023 with a focus on the interior footprint of the building, including major updates to the lobby making it one level for ADA accessibility. A larger, more easily accessible entry will welcome guests into the new venue. The theater will receive a complete refresh with updated, more comfortable seating. For more information about the Jane & John Justin Foundation Omni Theater, please visit the following links:
About Cosm
Cosm is the leading experiential media and immersive technology company redefining the way the world experiences content. With acclaimed history of developing some of the most innovative experiential technology in the world, Cosm powers sensorial experiences for every type of fan, from sports and entertainment to science, immersive art and education; this includes the world's largest and most advanced planetariums, giant screens, museums, and theme park attractions. Cosm is also recognized for its immersive production and software development prowess, producing the world's largest events with industry leading resolution and distribution methodology. Its immersive venues bridge the virtual and physical worlds through pioneered technology that expands the realm of what's possible, connecting people and bringing them together in, what is called, Shared Reality. As the company continues to expand to new cities and countries, Cosm is sparking shared passions and providing guests across the globe with experiences they need to feel to believe. To learn more, visit www.cosm.com and follow on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, and TikTok.
About the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History
The Fort Worth Museum of Science and History was established in 1941, is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums and is an Affiliate of the Smithsonian Institute. Anchored by its rich collections, the Museum is dedicated to lifelong learning. It engages guests through creative, vibrant programs and exhibits interpreting science and the history of Texas and the Southwest. For more information, visit www.fwmuseum.org or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, and TikTok.