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“Beyond All Boundaries, ” the new multi-sensory cinematic experience at The National World War II Museum in New Orleans, was selected to receive a prestigious Thea Award by the Themed Entertainment Association. Tom Hanks served as executive producer and narrator for the 4-D presentation, which was commissioned by The National WWII Museum. Concept, design and production were led by The Hettema Group and their creative design team in conjunction with Museum staff and top historians.
“We are honored to share this award with the museum, and especially Nick Mueller, president and CEO of The National World War II Museum, whose bold vision first launched “Beyond All Boundaries” in our imaginations, ” said Phil Hettema, President and Creative Executive, The Hettema Group. “We’re proud to have played a role in bringing that vision to life.”
The challenge was to tell the story of World War II in a dramatic new way that would resonate with audiences of all ages.
“In order to capture the imagination of the younger generation, we used state-of-the-art technology and special theatrical effects to create an immersive, emotional experience, ” said Hettema. “For older Americans, we absolutely made sure we got it right, ” he added, “by working with leading historians, doing extensive research, utilizing archival photographs and footage, and ultimately paying homage by telling the story in the very words of those who were there.”
The five-year project incorporates state-of-the-art special effects immersing the audience in a unique cinematic experience. With life-sized props, animation, and atmospherics, as well as archival footage and sound effects, audiences feel the tank treads rumbling across North Africa’s deserts, brush snow from their cheeks during the wintry Battle of the Bulge, and flinch at anti-aircraft fire as it tries to bring down a B-17 on a bombing run over Nazi Germany.
Since 1994, the Thea Awards have become internationally recognized as a symbol of excellence and achievement within the themed entertainment industry. Significantly, the Thea Awards honor the vision and dedication of project owners while also recognizing the vital work of talented designers, technicians, vendors and suppliers who realize the vision.
The Thea Awards will be presented on March 12, 2011, at the 17th Annual Thea Awards Gala, at the Globe Theatre, Universal Studios, Hollywood. Additional event information is available at www.teaconnect.org.
The Hettema Group, located in Pasadena, California, specializes in creative design, production and architecture for the world of experiential entertainment including museums, visitor centers, theme parks, and resort destinations. For more information: www.thehettemagroup.com.
The National World War II Museum tells the story of the American Experience in the war that changed the world – why it was fought, how it was won, and what it means today. Dedicated in 2000 as The National D-Day Museum and now designated by Congress as America’s National World War II Museum, it celebrates the American Spirit, the teamwork, optimism, courage and sacrifice of the men and women who fought on the battlefront and served on the Home Front. For more information, call 877-813-3329 or 504-527-6012 or visit www.nationalww2museum.org. Follow us on Twitter at WWIImuseum or visit our Facebook fan page.
