FISHERS, Ind. (Sep. 15, 2009) Conner Prairie Interactive History Park, Indiana’s only Smithsonian Affiliate, releases “History Rising, A Conner Prairie Balloon Adventure,” a film that documents how this cultural landmark is reinventing itself for guests of the 21st century. Featured are the massive preparation and behind-the-scenes insights and risks involved with installation of 1859 Balloon Voyage, a permanent exhibit.
“Frankly, at first I thought it was a little too far out for Conner Prairie,” says Ellen M. Rosenthal, president and CEO of Conner Prairie, when referencing how the idea for1859 Balloon Voyage was born and evaluated more than two years ago. The documentary shows how the exhibit became a reality through collaboration with an international team, Smithsonian National Air & Space Museum consultation, Conner Prairie staff and more than 40 volunteers. Watch the dynamics as everything comes down to the wire to launch of this permanent $2 million exhibit earlier this summer that changes the face of Conner Prairie.
“There was a lot of excitement and tension-packed moments as Conner Prairie inflated the balloon and built the exhibit,” says Michael Husain, owner of Emmy-winning Good Vibes Media, which produced the documentary.
The documentary airs Thursday, September 17 at 7:30 p.m. on WFYI, and DVDs will be available at the Conner Prairie Store. Visit connerprairie.org for a preview of the film.
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Conner Prairie interactive history park, created by Eli Lilly in 1934, is Indiana’s only Smithsonian affiliate. Families of today engage, explore and discover what it was like to live and play in Indiana’s past. Explore five themed historic areas on 200 beautiful, wooded acres including the newest exhibit, 1859 Balloon Voyage. This exhibit educates guests about Indiana’s aviation history and culminates with a voyage 350 feet above the prairie in a tethered helium balloon. Every visit is a unique adventure that provides an authentic look into the history that shapes us today. Admission to Conner Prairie is $12 for adults, $11 for seniors, $8 for youth (ages 2-12) and free for members and children under 2. The balloon voyage fee is $15 for non-members and $12 for members. A $5 off coupon is available at BP am/pm convenience stores. For a list of participating stores or for more information about Conner Prairie visit www.connerprairie.org or call 317.776.6006 or 800.966.1836.
Media Contact: Michelle Runzer, Marketing Communications Director, Conner Prairie
(office) 317.214.4498, (cell) 773.251.3876, Runzer@connerprairie.org