Erth’s Prehistoric World will captivate all paleontologists at heart, whether children or adult
Presented by: ERTH Visual and Physical Inc and Big Family Weekend
Reviewed: 17 May, 2023
Erth Visual and Physical Inc. have been engaging young minds for over thirty years through their innovative puppetry productions. One of their current gems, Erth’s Prehistoric World, visits Adelaide for the DreamBIG Children’s Festival. History is brought to life on stage at the hands of Erth’s skilled puppeteers and a pinch of imagination. How the Dunstan Playhouse can accommodate such a wide collection of prehistoric creatures remains a mystery.
Erth’s Prehistoric World is an immersive experience, focusing on animals local to Australia and offering many opportunities for audience participation. Starting with the birth of microscopic life on earth, we are introduced to Dickinsonia Rex, as the oval shaped creature glides around an eager volunteer on stage. Illuminated from within, a breathtaking human-sized Angler Fish transfixes our host before a shoal of colour-changing squid swim among the young audience. Plesiosaurs playfully soar above the first few rows to great applause. We learn how the carnivorous Kronosaurus Queenslandicus used its mouth to smell prey nearby. Mustered by our host, the audience scares away Kronosaurus to protect the innocent juvenile Plesiosaurs.
Despite these marvels, Erth’s Prehistoric World is not fast paced. The host allows plenty of time for each creature to explore the stage, whether gracefully flying or frolicking along the ground in a family group. As she discusses each species in turn, her excitement is infectious. We learn of Leaellynasaura, who was named after the beloved daughter of the scientists who discovered its fossil, and Mary Anning, the nineteenth century paleontologist.
Given the breadth of information included in the show, Erth’s Prehistoric World would easily overwhelm younger viewers. However, it will certainly captivate and astound primary school aged children (or even adult paleontologists at heart.)
Reviewed by Nicola Woolford
Photo credit: Atmosphere Photography
Venue: Dunstan Playhouse
Season: 20th – 21st May, 2023
Duration: 55 minutes
Tickets: $25.00
Bookings: https://dreambig.adelaidefestivalcentre.com.au/whats-on/erths-pre-historic-world
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