There's a world of things to see and do at the B.C. Pavilion. And the best place to start is at the glass-covered main building --Discovery B.C.
A visit begins with a Walk in the Forest -- a quiet path winding past rows of 12-metre Douglas fir trees to the pavilion entrance. Inside, carved native figures spread their arms in welcome in the preshow area while skylights illuminate a real waterfall and simulated forest nearby. These are images of British Columbia -- bright, airy and natural.
The thrill begins in the Showscan Theatre beyond. The rugged beauty of B.C.'s landscapes are on display here for the first time in Showscan, a high-speed film technique that must be seen to be believed. And the theatre is state of the art-- with a screen 19 metres wide and nine audio speakers providing the best in visuals and sound.
After the film, take an escalator down to the Trees of Discovery -- three giant elevator towers which offer vertical rides through fantastic audio visual experiences. Each tower tells a series of stories about transportation, communications and other technologies developed here in British Columbia.
The underwater simulator nearby is a "total experience" exhibit that uses Showscan film to simulate a thrilling underwater adventure. It's a dramatic illustration of B.C.'s emerging submersible industry and an exciting experience too.
B.C.’s world-class submersible industry is shown in films and exhibits at B.C. Pavilion. This is Deep Rover II – featured in an underwater simulation at Discovery B.C.
At the B.C. Revue near the main hall, B.C. landmarks, history and culture are on display. Look for intriguing stage sets, wall murals and a roving band of actors who stage impromptu performances throughout. Roadsigns and portals point the way through nine exhibit spaces--each representing a B.C. region.
There's more regional fun at our 200-seat bandshell nearby as thousands of regional performers offer music and dance; or make your way to the Plaza of Nations, where top B.C. entertainers will perform during Expo.
Thousands of regional B.C. performers – like these New Westminster dancers- will perform for the world during the B.C. Pavilion’s Regional Showcase.
A few paces south is the waterfront area, the scene of maritime displays of marine vessels and industries. You'll find the B.C. Pavilion flagship here--the heritage vessel Ivanhoe. It's an authentic 25-metre wooden towboat. And look for large scale model boat shows, boat building demonstrations and a real submarine nearby.
Afterwards, you can stroll across the plaza to the Challenge B.C. building-- dedicated to B.C. industry and resources. Inside, whimsical sculptures and mobiles created by B.C. artists offer a humourous look at the economic partnership that makes us prosperous. A fast-paced, multimedia and live performance show next door features "real characters" from B.C. industry.
Next -- a collage of multi-media images are presented on three screens simultaneously in a delightful film presentation at the Challenge Theatre. People from all parts of B.C. will speak to the world through this film called Our British Columbia.
Roller Blades, the latest in fast footwear, have made a hit at Expo 86. CN Pavilion hosts and hostesses are using them to move around the open air pavilion. Here, Randy Jordan gives a young pavilion visitor a quick twirl around the plaza. Roller Blades are a cross between ice skates and roller skates and made in Canada by an Edmonton firm.
There's also a tranquil, forested area near Challenge B.C. that is ideal for the weary fairgoer. Exhibits here include ancient tree specimens and a series of authentic totem poles which stand in tribute to the Native tribes of British Columbia. Continuous logger sports are featured at the Plaza waterfront nearby.
And look for live entertainment daily and nightly at the Plaza of Nations. This is the B.C. Entertainment Showcase featuring music, dance and fashion shows.
