Simply Alex Kingston

Visitors to Newcastle’s Life Science Centre (Life) can journey to the depths of the ocean to discover the origins of life on planet Earth and soar into space in the search for extra-terrestrial life in a new 360° immersive show.

Life: The Greatest Story is a new fulldome show narrated by actor Alex Kingston, star of Doctor Who and ER, and will be screened in Life’s state-of-the-art planetarium.

It has been written and produced by the same talented in-house team behind the acclaimed show What Santa Sees, which received international attention after being bought by planetaria across the world.

The 25-minute show pushes the boundaries of fulldome film production, combining 3D animation with live action filming. Starting with a deep dive tour of the ocean floor to discover the earliest forms of life, the show goes on to cover the evolution of plants, fungi and animals. Viewers will visit dinosaurs and explore forest and lava landscapes before venturing into space to explore the big question… does life exist elsewhere in the universe?

Life: The Greatest Story starts on 19 July and is included in the price of entry to the science centre.

Life Chief Executive Linda Conlon said: “We are incredibly proud of our talented team for creating such a captivating show, combining science, storytelling and amazing imagery. It offers a compelling exploration of planet Earth and, hopefully, visitors will leave with a deeper connection to it and a renewed enthusiasm to protect it.”

The work of Life’s Digital Producer Tommy Howell, who created the visuals and soundtrack for the show, was recently acknowledged by the European Collaboration of Science and Technology Centres at its annual conference in Poland. Tommy was highly commended for producing innovative and engaging work and for reaching new audiences.

Life: The Greatest Story is part of the science centre’s summer programme. All shows, activities, and exhibitions, including Life’s new exhibition Lightbox, are included in the admission price.