An imaginative mix of storytelling, science, puppetry and comedy, Dinosaur Time Machine follows two dinosaur enthusiasts as they embark on a journey back in time, sharing a barrage of interesting dinosaur facts along the way.

Aimed primarily towards younger children, the show explores topics such as the colour, shape and size of dinosaurs, when in Earth’s history they existed, and how scientists use fossil discoveries and guesswork to form theories about their eating habits and behaviour.

Interesting and (occasionally) complicated facts are broken down and delivered using age-appropriate language and visual aids which make learning fun (and there are plenty of jokes for adults to enjoy, too).

While the Fringe program states audiences will “get up close and personal with a life-sized T-Rex”, in reality, Dinosaur Time Machine offers only fleeting glimpses of two dinosaurs – one baby and one adult T-Rex – which may be disappointing to young dinosaur lovers (like mine) who are eager to see dinosaurs in action.

Nonetheless, the two performers are bubbly and bursting with energy. Over the course of 50 minutes they run, jump, dance and scream their way across stage in a display of hyperactivity that is both impressive and entertaining – especially when their behaviour gets them into troublesome situations.

COVID has drastically changed the way artists interact with their audiences, and this duo does a fantastic job of engaging with the younger audience while adhering to current restrictions and safety guidelines. Children are asked to cheer and scream loudly, and also to provide sound effects for the show’s time machine and dinosaurs. Saturday’s audience certainly rose to the challenge (it may pay to pack earplugs if you or your child suffers from noise sensitivities).

Photo: Brig Bee

Dinosaur Time Machine plays in Gluttony until March 20.

Read more 2022 Adelaide Fringe stories and reviews here.