Dreamworks How To Train Your Dragon Live Spectacular

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When I first heard about the live performance of How to Train Your Dragon it sounded interesting, but boy was I in for a surprise. The show is a spectacular combination of music and sights, for both adults and kids to enjoy. The show is filled with wonders, such as the combination of live action and video. One part of the show was created to look like the actor is running along a path- but in reality it was an actor running through projected and real scenery while hanging perpendicular to the screen, then all about the stage (and wall) area. The dragons were amazing, the robotics involved to make these creatures move, roar, shoot fire or lasers is truly fantastic. Shadow dragons flying above or shooting fire completed the effect, along with pyrotechnics that shot flames and tied it all together.

The pre-show Hero’s Welcome package was a great idea. The package included all of us getting dressed up as vikings for a posed picture, then meeting the main human characters (Astrid and Hiccup) for photos and Dragon Training Certifications. After the show, they had an explanation of how things worked. Pretty in Pink had to take her certificate for show and tell in school, so that she could show everyone that she is now a Dragon Trainer (she was so proud). Little Man was absolutely aglow from the idea that he was a viking and he had a chance to hold a sword and a shield. He also wanted to hug all the dragons- so no worries that they will be too scary for your little ones.

The story line was a great adaptation from the original movie with some slight changes, but the changes work well within the theatrical performance. The actors were fun, the sounds were loud enough to create the feel of fighting and fire- but not loud enough to frighten the kids. The pyrotechnics were surprising and very well incorporated into the story plot. The actual flying of the dragons was absolutely amazing. The show moves in a manner were the adults did not notice the time just flying by, while also keeping the kids engrossed in the action, so there was very little fidgeting in the seats or boredom. The facial features of the dragons are also worth noting- they are incredibly lifelike. I was really surprised at how much they looked like their animated counterparts, and they really showed emotion.

At the end of the evening and during the retelling of what I had experienced, I found myself saying that I wish I could see this one again. I guess we are all kids, sometimes. Don’t miss this one- get your tickets here.