VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA--(Marketwired - May 6, 2015) - The Vancouver Aquarium Marine Science Centre last night hosted its annual Dreamnight event, presented by Shaw Communications Inc. Dreamnight is an incredibly special evening dedicated to celebrating courageous children with chronic and life-threatening illnesses. More than 600 children and their families came to the Aquarium for an enchanting aquatic night to be remembered. In 2002, the Vancouver Aquarium became the first aquarium in North America to host Dreamnight, and is now one of more than 170 aquariums around the world that participates.
"Dreamnight holds a special place in the hearts of Aquarium staff and volunteers, who donate their time to be a part of it. This event is without a doubt the most inspiring one we host throughout the year," said John Nightingale, president and CEO, Vancouver Aquarium Marine Science Centre. "The children and families that attend Dreamnight show us what true bravery looks like, and they do it with a smile. It's a magical evening for all involved, including our community partners, who make such an event possible."
Many of the organizations that work with these families year-round were on hand to make this an unforgettable night. They include B.C. Children's Hospital, Canuck Place Children's Hospice, Children's Heart Network, Children's Organ Transplant Society, Children's Wish Foundation, Make-A-Wish Foundation of B.C. & Yukon, Ronald McDonald House B.C., Starlight Children's Foundation Canada, Sunny Hill Health Centre for Children, Sunshine Foundation Dreams for Kids, and Variety – The Children's Charity.
"We are inspired by the bravery and courage of these children and their families, and are proud to support an event that provides them with a truly memorable experience," says Brad Shaw, Chief Executive Officer, Shaw Communications. "For four years in a row, we are pleased to celebrate the organizations that do so much for children and youth in the community."
Guests had the Aquarium to themselves, providing them a safe and inviting environment in which to explore. Many aquarium staff, including interpreters, trainers, curators and scientists were on hand to offer the full experience, while the touch pools offered hands-on interactions for those willing to get their hands wet. Programs included animal education and a showing of Sea Monsters 4-D: A Prehistoric Adventure in the 4-D theatre. In the Aquarium's newest exhibit, Sea Monsters Revealed: The Exhibition, guests were taken on a fascinating journey through the deep to get an up-close, inside look at dozens of preserved sea creatures, including a mako shark, a silky shark and an ocean sunfish.
The fun continued around the Aquarium, with Bee Bop the beluga mascot posing for photos and making sure everyone who wanted a hug received one. Many left with their faces painted, carrying their creations from the arts and craft station or humming the tunes of the Magical Musical show performed by the Aquarium's interpretive delivery team.
There was no shortage of treats on hand for the special visitors, with food provided by White Spot and Limelight Foods of Canada Ltd. Dreamnight supporters were also provided take-away goodies for all the guests as a memento of their enchanting night.
Vancouver Aquarium is deeply grateful to Dreamnight's presenting sponsor Shaw Communications, and event partners including ARC Document Solutions; Coca Cola Canada; Easy Park; Showtime Pictures; and Sysco Canada.
Vancouver Aquarium Marine Science Centre
The Vancouver Aquarium Marine Science Centre is a non-profit society dedicated to the conservation of aquatic life. www.vanaqua.org.
Contact Information:
604-659-3752
publicrelations@vanaqua.org
www.vanaqua.org