Live performances are held at the outdoor Rolling Hill Stage and are free with Zoo admission or membership. Audience seating is on a grassy hillside; no reserved seating. Photo opps with Duncan and the California Tales Crew (Eleanora, Santino, Corey, and Rikki) are available after the shows.
“California Tales: Turtle Flies South for the Winter”
All kinds of animals have their own versions of hibernation–even turtles! Find out more in a tale inspired by the Lakota Sioux people from the wide-open places of the Great Plains.
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“Dino Doc”
What do you do when a T.rex has a limp? How do you take care of a baby Triceratops? Watch the live stage show “Dino Doc” and watch our dinosaurs receive top-notch medical care with some help from kids in the audience.
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Performances on Saturdays and Sundays at 11:30 AM and 2:00 PM.
Performance times are subject to change; check the daily schedule at Admissions for updates. Shows are canceled in the event of rain.
“California Tales: Turtle Flies South for the Winter”
In “California Tales: Turtle Flies South for Winter,” Corey Coyote enlists the ingenious help of Rikki Raven and Eleanora Condor to teach a talkative turtle a lesson.
This ancient story, enjoyed for generations, still delights the children of today. The goofy turtle himself reveals the real animal behaviors that inspired this enchanting tale.
Children and other audience members are encouraged to participate in the performance and to meet the animal characters after the show.
“Dino Doc”
What do you do when a T.rex has a limp? How do you take care of a baby Triceratops?
The Zoo’s two dinosaurs star in the live stage show “Dino Doc” and receive top-notch medical care with some help from kids in the audience. These volunteer “doctors” listen to a dinosaur’s heartbeat and conduct other tests, just like a real Zoo veterinarian.
Children and other audience members are encouraged to participate in the performance and to meet the animal characters after the show.
Show FAQ
Are the large characters too scary for little kids?
Every child is different. It is impossible to predict an individual child’s reaction to large, realistic-looking animal characters. If you think your child might be fearful, consider sitting further back from the stage.
It is ok to photograph and/or videotape the characters and the show?
Absolutely take photos or videos during the show! There is also a 10-minute period at the end of each show for photo opportunities with the animals.
Why doesn't the Zoo use real animals in these shows?
Our animal characters can participate in a more interactive way than our live animals can! For example, the characters demonstrate what it may be like to conduct a vet check on a dinosaur, can answer questions about their species, and explore animal behaviors in new and exciting ways.
Can we see the characters when they aren't on stage?
All of our friendly characters love to meet new people as often as possible. Keep your eyes peeled–they may be in line waiting to feed the giraffes or cruising around at a Zoo event!
Can Duncan or another character appear at my child's birthday party at the Zoo?
A chance to sing happy birthday is a chance the California Tales Crew members do not like to miss! Contact the Zoo’s guest services team to check availability for the wildest party guests in Santa Barbara.
