Swim Over to Dolphin Documentary Screening and Benefit at La Paloma

Written by Juliet Saunders

Take an ocean adventure at an Encinitas movie theater with the screening of a documentary about a popular bottle-nosed dolphin. Moko, who lived in New Zealand and has since passed away, touched the lives of many who swam with him.

The screening will be held at La Paloma Theatre on Thursday, July 3.

New Zealander Amy Taylor directed the documentary titled Soul in the Sea.

The film previously aired in 2013 at the New Zealand International Film Festival.

The project caught the attention of "dolphin whisperer" Dana Mermaid. Mermaid thought the film deserved a screening and that Independence Day week was meaningful, since part of her goal is for dolphins to gain independence like humans.

“People don’t realize dolphins have emotions, they are just like us,” Mermaid said.

Doors will open at 6 p.m. and audience members will be treated the video to “simulate the experience of swimming with dolphins in the wild.”

The film will start at 7 p.m., with a Q & A segment after with Mermaid, who will also answer any questions the audience has about mermaids, whales and dolphins. Mermaids love and admiration of dolphins may inspire audience members.

“They are just pure love,” she said.

Mermaid hopes the screening will help people understand the real issues dolphins are facing, and learn what they can do to help.

“Awareness and education is key,” said Mermaid. “So many people love the ocean, but they don’t know how they make a difference. Make a difference through a chain reaction.”

All proceeds will go to Ric O’Barry’s The Dolphin Project, whose mission is to stop the killing and capture of wild dolphins.

Channel 94.9 is holding a ticket give away in preparation for the screening, and Mermaid hopes all 380 seats of the theater will be filled.

Members of The Dolphin Project will also have a booth at the event, with a donation box, brochures and will answer any questions people have.

There will also be a raffle, where dozens of San Diego businesses have donated prizes.

Where:  La Paloma Theatre. 471 South Coast Hwy 101, Encinitas, CA 92024.

When: Thursday, July 3.

Doors: 6 p.m., movie at 7 p.m.

Cost: $15 at the door (cash only), or visit lapalomatheatre.com for advance tickets

Raffle: $3 or $10 for 4.