News: Busch Gardens in Tampa celebrates new Pirates 4D show

Posted at 3:58 PM EST (2058 GMT)

Feb. 18th, 2006 -- Busch Gardens in Tampa has been invaded by pirates! Thankfully, these pirates are of the fun and friendly type and were on hand to share some of their plunder with visitors.

They were there to help Busch Gardens celebrate the grand opening of the "Pirates 4D" show in the Timbuktu Theater today. With several special effects, audiences will feel like they are part of the movie in their quest to get Captain Lucky's treasure from Dead Man's Cave. Traps and pitfalls await, including being attacked by bats, birds and several other traps set to keep them from reaching the treasure.

"We're excited and looking forward to seeing many families enjoy the movie here," a park spokeswoman said. "This is something that all ages can enjoy together and have a lot of fun with the unexpected surprises that await them. And they will share some good laughs, too."

Staring Leslie Nielsen as Captain Lucky, guests will get to meet his former cabin boy, and share a couple of surprise guest appearances during the movie.

To celebrate the grand opening "Pirates 4D," the park invited several guests who might not otherwise be seen in the Tampa area outside of the Gasparilla festival, when the city celebrates being invaded by the pirate Jose Gaspar. Several "pirate crews" joined the festivities and handed out beads and trinkets, sharing their plunder and booty with those visiting the park today. Several of the park's furry mascots were also out to meet all the new members of the pirate hoards, and passholders were treated to early admission to the show, as well as pictures afterward.

Judging by the reception it received, it looks to be a big hit. Guests were enthusiastic, and many kids could be seen heading back to the entrance as soon as they had exited the theater, anxious to see the movie again. The park was also expecting to have a large turnout in the park today, and had to start using overflow parking lots.

"People are very excited about the movie, and so are we," the spokeswoman said. "We can't wait for them to try it out. It will be something that they'll do over and over again."

For pictures of the event, visit SirWillow's photos.