Review: ADELAIDE FESTIVAL 2016: ERTH'S DINOSAUR ZOO Is Spectacular Dinosaur Fun

Reviewed by Christine Pyman, Saturday 27th February 2016

When you combine everyday technology with sophisticated puppetry and supreme artistry, the result is magical and Erth's Dinosaur Zoo at the Norwood Concert Hall is magical indeed, recreating the spectacle of 65million years ago, and bringing it into a petting zoo like experience, together with facts and squeals. The old show business adage of never working with children and animals was totally ignored, with the result of delighting every audience member, from the littlest to the largest. This show appeals to all and, although squarely aimed at children, incorporated a lot to keep the adults entertained as well.

Scott Wright, the writer and director, is the head zookeeper, proving his great ability of child corralling as well as dinosaur handling. Children and adults were brought on stage in this interactive show, and most of them were very brave. Wright teaches in a down to earth manner, with innate showmanship, and incorporated veterinary care, dinosaur/bird hypnotism, and animal handling that carries over into everyday life.

The dinosaurs were brought to life with very clever puppetry and puppeteers, and added electronics, making them life-like and believable. Although mostly focusing on the more recent Australian dinosaur discoveries, true favourites were, of course, included, because what would a dinosaur show be without Tyrannosaurus Rex? Seeing T. Rex battle Australovenator (a dinosaur discovered in Queensland whose name means Southern Hunter) there on stage in front of your eyes is spectacular and somewhat scary. A minor technical hitch didn't detract from the wonderment of the show, and with the volume of engaged children overriding some of the sound, would not be noticed by the majority.

Designer, Steve Howarth, and Sound Designer, Phil Downing, add their special touches to help bring these large puppets, controlled by puppeteers, Sharon Kerr, Michael Cullen, and Gabbie Paananen, to life

This event fulfilled its many purposes, inspiring more research, at least in this household, more discussion and understanding, together with a fun and laughter filled fifty minutes. This is a completely wonderful show, in the true sense of the word, and should not be missed.

Equal parts education and entertainment add up to a totally enchanting performance.

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