Films shown in the Makai Theater raise awareness of local and global ocean topics.

MAALAEA – Maui Ocean Center recently opened the Makai Theater, the newest addition to the aquarium’s in-park attractions.

The 500-square-foot theater offers three show times daily with a seating capacity of 30 guests.

Featuring a high-definition projector and surround sound, the Makai Theater creates a new, dynamic viewing experience for guests that raises awareness about local and global ocean topics.

“It feels great to finally pull back the curtains and unveil the Makai Theater,” said Colleen Foster, director of education.

“The theater not only teaches guests about Hawaii’s marine life, it also enables them to go beyond the aquarium to learn about topics that affect the wider ocean environment.”

The Makai Theater will feature a daily rotating schedule of 15- to 30-minute short films and a single 45-minute feature film.

The aquarium is currently showing “In the Wake of Giants,” which showcases Hawaii’s heroic whale entanglement response team lead by Ed Lyman, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Large Whale Entanglement Response coordinator.

Future films will include “Fragile Legacy,” “Sonic Seas,” “Sharks of the Coral Canyon,” “Our Deepest Waters: Exploring Marine National Monuments” and more.

Film show times are 10:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. Seating is limited; tickets are available at the front entrance.

For more information, visit www.mauioceancenter.com or call 270-7000.