Counting Orca: Documentary Film Premiere

Join us for the premiere of “Counting Orca,” a short film following the life work of Dr. Ken Balcomb and his unique connection to the orca of the Pacific Northwest. After the film, a panel discussion will be held with the film makers. Guests will then be given exclusive, after-hours access to Orcas: Our Shared Future, NHMU’s popular special exhibition, to learn more about the Southern Resident Killer Whales studied in the film. There will also be opportunity to interact with scientists, gallery interpreters, and the “Counting Orca” filmmakers.

This evening event is perfect for film buffs, marine life enthusiasts, and couples searching for a unique and engaging date night. Featuring live music, free popcorn and soda, and a photo backdrop to commemorate the occasion, it’s an event you won’t want to miss!

Tickets are required to attend this special evening event. Follow the link below for more details and to register. 

About the Film “Counting Orca”

A tribute to the endangered southern resident killer whales and the man who began the census to protect them, "Counting Orca" is a cinematic archive of a community fighting to survive against the odds of time and the clock of life itself. This story sheds a light on the early research efforts to learn about the southern residents and the hope that Dr. Ken Balcomb created for their future.

This event is being hosted in partnership with the Center for Whale Research. 

CWR Mission Statement

Since 1976, the Center for Whale Research (CWR) has been the leading organization monitoring and studying Southern Resident killer whales in their critical habitat: the Pacific Northwest’s Salish Sea. CWR performs an annual census and regular health assessments of the orca population, informs the government of the whales’ ecosystem needs, shares their stories with the world, and promotes ecosystem recovery. Our 49 years of research have created the only long-term data set about the Southern Residents’ behavior, health, and social dynamics.