Sharks, Science, & Cinema: Community Beyond the Cove
On February 28, Crystal Cove Conservancy welcomed a full house to the Rivian South Coast Theater for Sharks, Science, & Cinema—an evening that brought our community together beyond the boundaries of the park, united by a shared commitment to ocean stewardship.
Presented in collaboration with Rivian, CSU Long Beach, Laguna Playhouse, and Laguna Outreach for Community Arts (LOCA), the event embodied the creative spirit of partnership. By weaving together film, conversation, science, and the arts, the evening reflected how conservation thrives when diverse communities come together around a common purpose.
The program featured a thoughtful panel conversation with Armando Quintero, Director of the California Department of Parks and Recreation; Kate Wheeler, President & CEO of Crystal Cove Conservancy; and Erin Andreatta, Program Manager, Advocacy & Public Programs of Crystal Cove Conservancy. Together, they explored the cultural legacy of sharks in popular media, the importance of science in shaping public understanding, and the role that protected coastal landscapes like Crystal Cove State Park play in fostering environmental awareness.
The evening culminated with a screening of Jaws, inviting the audience to revisit the iconic film through a new lens—one informed by science, stewardship, and a deeper appreciation for the marine ecosystems just beyond our shoreline.
We extend our sincere gratitude to our partners and panelists who helped create this meaningful gathering. By bridging creativity, research, and conservation, Sharks, Science, & Cinema reminded us that when communities come together—whether along the shoreline or in shared spaces beyond it—powerful conversations and lasting connections can take root.
See our event Photo Album here!