Get ‘illuminated’ on the connections of nature in John Ball Zoo’s returning light show

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

The John Ball Zoo will once again be washed in sound and light as it brings back the popular “IllumiZoo.”

Offered for the first time last year, “IlluniZoo” is a nighttime journey through John Ball Zoo where guests stroll through an illuminated landscape of nature drenched in light and sound. The striking spectacle cycles through creative imagery, music-synchronized animal displays, and animated motifs of moving light.

The hues of natures are captured in this year’s IllumiZoo production. (Supplied)

“We are excited to continue creating unique experiences to tell the important story of conservation and bring the community together,” said John Ball Zoo Chief Development and Community Engagement Officer Kelli Smith.

Opening Sept. 3 and running through Nov. 14, this year’s “IllumiZoo” theme will be “Wild Hues,” with the many hues of color reflecting the “hues” of species and environments throughout the world. Each have their own unique colors, traits, and stories to tell. The survival of many of these species and enrichments are in jeopardy, with more than 16,000 animal species facing endangerment and extinction in the world.

“‘IllumiZoo Wild Hues’ is an illuminated message about our commotion to each other and our environment, and the power each of us possess to make a positive change in our world,” Smith said

This year’s display will tell the conservation stories by creating illuminating connections between wildlife and wild places. These connections will showcase how we are connected to the land, the water, the air, the trees and all the animals, big and small, with the power to make a positive change in the world.

This year’s pathway will be in the opposite direction of last year’s path and will travel into new areas of the zoo. Returning favorites from last year will be the “fobbles,” the interactive storytelling LED walls, and the Fluorescent Flower Field (formerly the fairy garden).

One of the new features to this year’s IllumiZoo is the oversized “campfire.” (Supplied)

New this year, will be an oversized “campfire” With digital embers flickering with color. Colorful animated animal footprints and lush greet leaves will illuminate the trail reacting to visitors steps. The “invisible” animals will also speed up and run away when guests get too close to their footprints. The night sky will also be illuminated with animal constellations, and more.

“We are thrilled to partner with John Ball Zoo again this year,” said Braden Graham, vice president of operations and client services, live events at Bluewater Technologies, which has designed and created the show. “Look for a slightly longer path and new interactive A/V and lighting elements as we bring the grounds of the Zoo to life at night.”

Tickets are $20/adults, $13/children ages 3-12, and free/children 2 and under. Time ticketing will vary as sunset times change. Guests are encouraged to reserve tickets in advance to guarantee dates and times. Tickets are available at www.jbzoo.org/tickets.

John Ball Zoo is located on Fulton Avenue, one mile west of downtown Grand Rapids. For more information, visit www.jbzoo.org, call 616-336-4301, or email info@jbozoo.org.