Questions, answered.
Everything a coordinator usually asks before booking. From space requirements and setup to standards and movie selection.
Are the shows educational, or just entertainment?
Both, by design. Every show in our library is built around real science and mapped to what students are already learning, but it never feels like a lecture. The dome puts kids inside the material, standing on Mars, inside a tornado, or watching a cell divide around them. So the learning lands because the experience is unforgettable. Education first, entertainment second.
Do the shows align to educational standards?
Yes. Our shows are compatible with Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS)*, and every show on our site lists the standards it supports so you can match a film to your current unit. We say "compatible with" on purpose: a dome experience enriches your teaching, it doesn't replace it.
How are the shows selected?
Once your visit is booked, we'll send you a private scheduling link. Make all the selections yourself, or share the link with your team so each teacher picks their own show and time slot. Everyone browses the full library and locks in their choices, and we'll have the day's schedule ready before we ever arrive.
How much space do you need?
Our dome needs a flat indoor area of about 25 by 25 feet with a ceiling of at least 12 feet. A standard gymnasium, cafeteria, or multipurpose room is usually perfect. If you're not sure whether your space works, mention it on a call and we'll figure it out together.
Does the host location need to provide anything?
Very little. We need access to the room about an hour before your first show for setup, a standard power outlet nearby, and a clear path to carry equipment in. A few of our shows stream in real time and need WiFi access; we'll flag those ahead of time. That's it, we handle the rest.
How many students can attend?
The dome comfortably seats about 35 students per show. Because shows run in 30-minute blocks throughout the day, a full day can reach several hundred students. We'll help you map class rotations so every group gets their turn. Smaller formats are available too if you only need part of a day.
Can The Reel Orb be set up outdoors?
No, The Reel Orb is an indoor-only experience. The dome and projection system need a controlled indoor space to work properly.
Are your presenters background-checked?
Yes. Every presenter who represents The Reel Orb in your building is background-checked. We know schools take who's in front of their students seriously, and so do we.
Are you insured?
Yes, The Reel Orb is fully insured. If your location needs a certificate of insurance for your records, just ask and we'll provide it.
How much does it cost?
Every visit is quoted individually based on location and format. Contact us and we'll build a quote with you.
How far do you travel?
We're based in metro Detroit and serve all of Michigan. If you're just over the border or a bit farther out, ask anyway. We travel for the right event, and we'll tell you honestly on a call whether we can make it work.
What if we need to reschedule?
School days don't always go as planned. If your school is closed for weather or an emergency on your scheduled date, we'll reschedule, that's built into every agreement. For other changes, reach out as early as you can and we'll do our best. Full details are in your booking agreement.
