Inspired by the popular BBC TV series of the same name (not that terrible movie that came out last winter), Walking with Dinosaurs is narrated by a fictional palaeontologist named Huxley, who gives a cursory overview of their rise and fall on Earth. While the facts he shares are interesting and based on the latest research, let's face it, the audience isn't here for a history lesson. My son and his pal and all the kids in attendance wanted dinosaurs! And the ones they got were absolutely breathtaking. The smaller creatures are actually performers in incredible costumes, while the larger ones are animatronic. Unsurprising, the big ones move pretty slowly and are powered by motors that are visible between their legs. But that doesn't really take away from the illusion.

There is no plot per se (besides, you know, evolution), but there's plenty to keep dinosaur lovers of all ages engaged. Huxley sets each paleontological period (Triassic, Jurassic, Cretaceous) and there's always some action, like two Torosauruses fighting for dominance, or a pair of long-necked Brachiosauruses eating and cuddling, or, in the most thrilling sequence, a T.rex defending her baby (who is adorable and earns audible "awwwws" when he tries to roar). Other dinosaurs on display include the Liliensternus, Raptors, Ankylosaurus and Stegosaurus, and their world is evoked through clever sets (inflatable flowers, plants and trees that can thrive or die on command) and cool projections.

The 95-minute show is really just over an hour (there's a 20-minute intermission! Just try getting home without spending money on concessions) so even preschoolers won't have time to get fidgety. While it's officially recommended for ages 3 and up, more sensitive children may be scared by some of what they see and hear. Walking with Dinosaurs doesn't shy away from the harsh realities of the circle of life. It opens with a just-hatched dino being eaten, includes lots of fighting and loud sound effects, and ends with their extinction as a 100 million megaton comet hits the Earth creating a massive dust cloud that blocks out the sun. The only time I heard crying was when the mama T.rex roared several times (that even made me jump!). But parents should use their best judgement if bringing young children. Meanwhile, tweens may think they're too cool for the show. My nine-year-old son and his eight-year-old friend enjoyed it, but they did make a few "this is for babies" comments. I'd say the sweet spot is ages 4 to 8.

Walking with Dinosaurs: The Arena Spectacular is playing at Brooklyn's Barclays Center through Sunday, July 20, and then at Newark, NJ's Prudential Center from Wednesday, July 23 through Sunday July 27. See the complete schedule online. Mommy Poppins readers can save $10 per ticket on select Brooklyn performances using the promo code MPOPPINS.