ATLANTA, GA.-/PRNewswire-FirstCall/Premier Exhibitions, Inc. today announced that its controversial Exhibition opened at 9:00 a.m. today at the Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI) in Tampa, Florida. A surprise "Sneak Preview" opening surrounded by controversy and massive media coverage set the stage for the Exhibition's launch.

Earlier in the week, in an attempt to co-operate with the Gainesville Florida State Anatomical Board, the Company provided certain information verifying the legality of the Exhibition's specimens to be featured at the Tampa Museum. Although Company Attorneys advised that the Board had no jurisdiction over the Exhibition, Company Management and MOSI, in an attempt to resolve any differences amicably, while reserving their rights, tried to deal with the boards concerns. In a well publicized meeting the Board agreed that the specimens had been obtained and transferred legally, but in their subjective personal viewpoint voted 4 to 2 disagreeing with the Company that the public should be allowed to see the Exhibition.

The Company's Chief Executive Officer Mr. Arnie Geller, in a joint announcement with MOSI President Wit Ostrenko informed the media that the decision would not stop the Exhibition from opening.

In addition, Mr. Geller went on to say, "I want to first thank our loyal shareholders as well as our legal professionals, because as a team we have been working very hard to ensure that we are compliant, and receiving fair treatment regarding our commitment to open the "BODIES...The Exhibition at MOSI." Mr. Geller then added, "The Officers and Directors of Premier have reviewed all applicable laws in the state of Florida, along with our counsel, and as we have contended from the beginning of our research and negotiation with the Museum, that our for profit event is not subject to the statutes that the Florida State Anatomical Board contended we maybe in violation of."

Mr. Geller went on to add, "While we were pleased the Board confirmed our paper work was in order and concurred we had legally obtained and transported the specimens into Florida, we were disappointed that four of the six members thought it was their right to ban the Exhibition from being presented to the public. Although our counsel believes the result of our actions will not spark any court action, the Company is prepared to vigorously fight for its right to present this exhibition and for the public's right to see it."

Mr. Geller then stated, "I think in lieu of all the media coverage and controversy surrounding this exhibition in Tampa, it is important to note the following points, firstly exhibitions like this one have been open in major US cities such as Los Angeles, Chicago and Cleveland, and our medical officer and our legal counsel remain firm in their belief of the fact that we are not in violation of any state or federal laws when we exhibit this type of content, and secondly Premier Exhibitions will continue to open other venues in the United States -- regardless of this type of unconstitutional scrutiny."

Mr. Geller then stated, "Although we are open to continuing constructive dialogue with any state official, we intend to do every thing in our power to protect our partners and more importantly our valued shareholders as this public Company has a genuine and valuable mission to educate and entertain people with our world class exhibitions."