SeaWorld San Antonio today announced it will premiere a new show featuring Shamu and companion killer whales titled "Believe"  to its 2006 lineup.

The new show, which includes new music, video and animal behaviors, will be presented in a completely enhanced Shamu Stadium. The area will include a new roof, stunning new set pieces, sound system and lights, and an additional point-of-view camera that will offer an overhead view of the action in the water during show presentations.

"After a number of years in which our park has focused on showcasing the depth and breadth of attractions we offer to guests, in 2006 we will focus completely upon our icon killer whale, Shamu," said Dan Decker, executive vice president and general manager at SeaWorld San Antonio.  "Shamu the killer whale is the reason that many people choose to visit our parks;  next year, the "Believe" show will create a whole new look and a completely different presentation that families will be talking about for years to come."

Work is already underway as the park is removing the fabric cover from atop the dome at Shamu Stadium and cleaning the framework to prepare it for the new aluminum cover.

"Guests visiting SeaWorld this autumn will see the changes underway at Shamu Stadium as we take advantage of our seasonal operation to begin the renovation," Decker said. "This process is done without interrupting our weekend show schedule."

The set adds a completely new dimension to the Shamu presentation.  First, a  giant set of tail flukes soars to the ceiling at the south side of the stadium. The fabric surface will be imprinted with forms of killer whales.  The stage area which currently features the giant screen will be surrounded by a similar treatment.  The stage itself will be lengthened and enhanced for the show.

A new POV camera placed at the apex of the domed stadium will offer SeaWorld guests incredible overhead views of the show in progress and transmitted onto the giant viewing screen at the north end of the stadium.

The show will open with images of a teenager who wants to experience killer whales up close. The action soon transitions to the pool, where whale and trainer discover each other in a series of gentle behaviors. This turns to rambunctious fun as more whales and trainers enter the pool.  The playful behaviors and upbeat tempo suddenly end, leaving two trainers and whales center stage.  Next, a beautiful ballet section highlights the power and awe of the relationship between man and marine mammal. With help from screen images, the storyline returns to the young whale enthusiast, now a SeaWorld killer whale trainer, whose enthusiasm for Shamu is passed on to a member of the audience. This kicks the show into high gear, with an inspiring musical and behavioral finish.

"Believe is truly a theatrical production, the first of its kind for Shamu Stadium," said Doug Minerd, vice president of entertainment for SeaWorld San Antonio. "It is a new way of looking and showcasing Shamu which our guests will find fascinating."

The show will feature new animal behaviors in a more synchronous presentation than trainers and whales have ever presented before.

"Our killer whales and trainers will attempt to bring the audience 'into the pool'," said Dave Force, vice president of animal training and education. "The relationship we establish and build with our killer whales is based on trust, understanding and respect. Believe enables our guests to see this bond in a new way."

"Believe" is scheduled to open for the park's 2006 season on March 4.