Humpback Whales in IMAX 3D and in Our Backyard Free lecture: Thurs. March 26; 7 p.m.

SPEAKERS: Dr. David Wiley, Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary’s Research Coordinator, Scott Kraus, the New England Aquarium’s Vice President of Research, and Laura Howes, Head Naturalist at Boston Harbor Cruises, will facilitate a discussion based on the new IMAX film, “Humpback Whales 3D” which is now showing in the New England Aquarium’s Simons IMAX Theatre.

WHAT: Humpbacks are best known to whale watchers as the gigantic, accomplished acrobats of the whale world. Now, a spectacular new IMAX film introduces us to their complex and fascinating lives beneath the waves with unparalleled, underwater footage in “Humpback Whales 3D.” Produced by MacGillvray Freeman Studios, one of the world’s most accomplished aquatic filmmakers, the film is narrated by actor Ewan MacGregor and was shot in Hawaii, Alaska, and Tonga.

Even New England is host to some of the world’s best and possibly most accessible humpback whale watching just 25 miles east of Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary. After viewing the film, local whale researchers Dr. David Wiley and Scott Kraus will join naturalist Laura Howes to lead a discussion on what draws the humpbacks so close to Boston, why last year’s whale watching season was so notable, and the challenges facing America’s only whale feeding sanctuary.

The weekend following the lecture is expected to be the beginning of the whale watching season. The New England Aquarium’s whale watch trips through Boston Harbor Cruises are expected to resume around March 28, depending on weather, and run through October.

WHEN: The free lecture takes place Thurs. March 26 at 7 p.m.

WHERE: New England Aquarium’s Simons IMAX Theatre, Central Wharf, Boston

NOTE: The Aquarium hosts a series of informative free lectures, films, and discussions for the community this spring. The Lowell Institute supports the lectures. Most are available on the Aquarium’s YouTube channel afterward. Pre-registration is encouraged on the Aquarium’s website, http://www.neaq.org/education_and_activities/programs_and_classes/aquarium_lecture_series/index.php or call 617-973-5200 for more information.

MEDIA CONTACT: Diana Brown McCloy, 978-697-9414; Diana@teakmedia.com

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