We recently discovered the exhibition “HOCKEY: Faster Than Ever” at the Museum of Discovery and Science in Fort Lauderdale, and after doing some research, we learned that it was designed by the Montreal Science Centre. We thought it would be a good idea to share this information with you by contacting the center. Offering interactive, scientific, hands-on, and immersive experiences on the theme of hockey, this unique exhibition allows visitors to discover the sport in a new way, combining science, technology, and adrenaline!
Birth of the idea
Irena Lesiv, Senior Manager, Exhibitions and Programming at the Montreal Science Centre, explains: « We were approached by Flying Fish, a production and distribution company, to develop the content for the exhibition because at the Science Centre, we really have technology and science at the heart of what drives progress and innovation. When we began researching for the exhibition, we quickly realized that it was research into player safety, the performance of devices that measure physical abilities, and everything related to equipment and the arena that has changed the sport in recent years. That’s what has made it faster, stronger, and safer. » Ms. Lesiv adds: « The Science Centre has a good reputation and a strong track record in developing exhibitions and scenarios that are truly accessible to the general public, children, and families, as they are fun and interactive. Plus, Montreal is the birthplace of hockey! So Flying Fish approached us. So we really built the exhibition, and they trusted us, but it was with their final approval that everything fell into place. »
The exhibition was presented in Montreal in 2023. Currently, it continues to travel and is in high demand. It will be in Fort Lauderdale until May 3, 2026.
Photos @Montreal Science Centre
No challenges in adapting an exhibition designed in Canada for Florida
The manager explains: « The exhibition is sponsored by the NHL, and the content appeals to Americans and Canadians alike. There is an area dedicated to veterans, which features artifacts, jerseys, hockey sticks, and stars. And normally, the last area of the exhibition is called ‘Hometown,’ where we promote the local team, talk about its players and their achievements, and showcase what’s happening in the local hockey culture. » The “Hometown Heroes” area exists at the Fort Lauderdale museum and is dedicated to the Florida Panthers. Players from the team and their mascot have already visited the exhibition.
Which of the interactive installations generate the most interest or wonder?
While all are interesting and captivating, Ms. Lesiv replies, « The Hockey Science Lab is a large arena divided into smaller areas where you can either take a slap shot, maneuver the puck, or test your speed. This is always a big hit with our audience because everyone can compete with their big sister or father, or even with the statistics of great players, such as Wayne Gretzky, whose shot speed everyone tries to match. »
The Science Centre manager’s favorite installation is the « Kiss Cam », which is well known in hockey. « In arenas, there is often a teleprompter with cameras, and during breaks in play, the camera pans across the crowd, and if you get caught on camera, you have to kiss the person you’re with. In the exhibit, you can also sit in the stands, see yourself on the teleprompter, and kiss the person next to you. »
What lessons do you want young people to take away from their visit?
“We really wanted to highlight that hockey is a multifaceted field, with not only hockey players who play the sport with passion and are true athletes, but also many related fields in which people can get involved, such as research, development, and innovation, both in equipment and technology, even Zambonis,” says Ms. Lesiv. “It’s really a whole culture that thrives on enthusiasm. People are really passionate about it, and that’s what has made the sport grow, especially in Quebec.”
In conclusion
The manager of the Montreal Science Centre says: “The French-speaking Quebec community in Florida has something to be proud of because we designed this hockey exhibit based on our foundations and our innovation. You know, we are the originators of this sport, and it was really touching to work on this design.” We all hope that Canadians will go see the exhibit if they are in South Florida. It’s a great activity to add to your calendar with spring break coming up!
Interestingly, the interview took place on the eve of February 7, the day marking the very first National Hockey Day in Quebec, established by the new law recognizing ice hockey as Quebec’s national sport.
The exhibition “HOCKEY: Faster Than Ever” will be on display until May 3, 2026, at the Museum of Discovery and Science in Fort Lauderdale (401 S.W. Second Street). For more information: HOCKEY: Faster Than Ever – Museum of Discovery & Science | IMAX AutoNation
