Computer Graphics Convention Will Log On This Week in Anaheim : SCIENCE/TECHNOLOGY

When 1,700 Mazda car dealers gathered in Honolulu last August for an annual sales meeting and unveiling of next year’s models, the Japanese automaker revved up their enthusiasm with a Broadway-like show and some high-tech wizardry.

The 70-minute presentation included a 180-foot theatrical set, originally scored music, computer graphics and a laser video show.

The Mazda presentation was one of 32 winning entries in the National Computer Graphics Assn.’s third annual International Computer Animation Competition. The competition is held before the trade group’s annual convention. This year’s convention runs this Sunday through Thursday at the Anaheim Convention Center.

The Mazda show was produced by Martin Brinkerhoff Associates, an Irvine marketing communications firm, with the help of the Santa Ana office of the Foote, Cone & Belding advertising agency.

Mazda “wanted a real exciting show,” said Randy Lubert, marketing director for Brinkerhoff. “They wanted to create a theatrical event.”

Brinkerhoff used computer graphics to create abstract representations of five new Mazda models, showing the design and manufacturing process for each vehicle.

Winning entries in the computer animation contest will be screened March 23 at 6:30 p.m. in the convention center arena. Admission is $20.