Unveiling the Secrets of Dinosaur Puppetry: A Journey Inside the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County’s Dinosaur Encounters

by Jasmine January 20, 2025

written by Jasmine January 20, 2025

What It’s Like Inside a Dinosaur Puppet

A Behind-the-Scenes Look at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County’s Dinosaur Encounters Program

As a dinosaur enthusiast, I couldn’t resist the opportunity to witness the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County’s renowned “Dinosaur Encounters” program, which showcases intricately crafted dinosaur puppets. Among the museum’s recent additions is a brand-new dinosaur hall, but the puppets were the primary attraction that drew me in.

The Tyrannosaurus Puppet: A Masterpiece of Puppetry

The star of the show was undoubtedly the museum’s fuzzy Tyrannosaurus puppet. Its realistic movements and impressive roars left the young audience in awe. The puppeteer, Brian Meredith, shared the secrets behind the puppet’s operation.

Meredith explained that he steps into the dinosaur’s body cavity and operates it from within. He controls the dinosaur’s movements through a series of strings and other instruments hidden inside its body. The dinosaur’s deafening roars are not pre-recorded but are actually produced by Meredith growling through a sub-woofer.

The Challenges of Puppeteering a Dinosaur

Despite the impressive performance, Meredith revealed that being inside a dinosaur puppet is not without its challenges. The restricted visibility through a small opening in the dinosaur’s neck makes it difficult to navigate. The heat generated by the suit during extended performances also adds to the physical demands of puppeteering.

The Science of Dinosaur Puppetry

The Dinosaur Encounters program not only provides entertainment but also serves as an educational tool. The host encourages young visitors to think like scientists and make observations to better understand prehistoric life. The puppets themselves demonstrate the principles of paleontology and biomechanics.

By observing the Tyrannosaurus puppet’s movements, for example, viewers can learn about the dinosaur’s predatory behavior and the adaptations that allowed it to dominate its environment. The program fosters a sense of wonder and curiosity about the natural world.

Unmasking the Dinosaur Puppeteer

After the show, I had the privilege of meeting Meredith, the talented puppeteer behind the Tyrannosaurus. Drenched in sweat from his energetic performance, he shared his passion for puppetry and the joy he finds in bringing dinosaurs to life for young audiences.

Meredith’s dedication and artistry are evident in the museum’s dinosaur puppets. Through his skilled manipulation, these puppets transport visitors to a prehistoric world, sparking their imaginations and inspiring a lifelong love of dinosaurs.

Tips for Aspiring Dinosaur Puppeteers

For those interested in pursuing dinosaur puppetry, Meredith offered some valuable advice. He emphasized the importance of understanding the dinosaur’s anatomy and behavior to create realistic movements. He also recommended studying the techniques of experienced puppeteers and practicing regularly to develop the necessary skills.

With patience, perseverance, and a passion for dinosaurs, aspiring puppeteers can master the art of bringing these magnificent creatures to life on stage. The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County’s Dinosaur Encounters program is an excellent starting point for anyone interested in exploring the world of dinosaur puppetry.

Jasmine

Jasmine's journey began with a camera in hand and a heart brimming with stories. The world, for her, wasn't just a collection of sights and sounds; it was a vibrant tapestry woven with intricate details, each one waiting to be captured and explored. This inherent curiosity naturally led her to the written word, where she discovered the power of language to weave narratives that resonated with the soul. Jasmine's articles in LifeScienceArt's life section are a testament to this synergy. Her words dance across the page, painting vivid pictures that transport readers to the heart of the experience. Whether it's the quiet contemplation sparked by a morning sunrise or the electrifying energy of a bustling city street, Jasmine has an uncanny ability to translate the essence of a moment into words that resonate. But Jasmine's talents extend far beyond the written word. With a keen eye for detail and a photographer's soul, she sees the world through a unique lens. Her photographs are more than just snapshots; they're windows into hidden emotions and unspoken narratives. A single image, captured with Jasmine's signature touch, can evoke a kaleidoscope of feelings, prompting introspection and igniting a sense of wonder in the viewer. The way she plays with light and shadow, or the way she finds beauty in the ordinary, speaks volumes about her artistic vision. It's clear that Jasmine doesn't just see the world; she feels it, deeply and passionately. This depth of feeling is evident in her writing as well. Jasmine's articles are infused with a raw honesty that connects with readers on a personal level. She doesn't shy away from exploring the complexities of life, the joys and sorrows, the triumphs and failures that we all experience. But even when tackling difficult topics, there's an underlying optimism in her words, a belief in the inherent resilience of the human spirit. Jasmine's writing encourages readers to embrace the full spectrum of life's experiences, to find beauty in the unexpected, and to navigate the challenges with courage and grace. One gets the sense that Jasmine's own life is a continuous exploration, a constant search for new experiences and perspectives. Whether it's venturing off the beaten path to capture a hidden gem through her lens or delving into the depths of human emotion through her writing, Jasmine thrives on the journey itself. This inherent sense of adventure is infectious, inspiring readers to embark on their own explorations, both internal and external. Jasmine's work isn't just about capturing moments; it's about igniting a spark of curiosity and a desire to live life to the fullest. Perhaps the most captivating aspect of Jasmine's work is the sense of intimacy it evokes. Reading her articles feels like having a conversation with a close friend, someone who understands the nuances of life and isn't afraid to share their vulnerabilities. This ability to connect with readers on a personal level is what makes Jasmine's writing so powerful and enduring. It's a testament to her own authenticity and her genuine desire to connect with others through the magic of words and images.