Before I start my review, I have a confession to make. My child loves unusual animals, but I would prefer the IKEA DJUNGELSKOG to the real deal. Forty minutes with Cass Rowles, however, changed my mind about reptiles.

Rowles is the ‘half’ serpentine host for A Snake's Tale. With a tough crowd of smart kids, she actively engaged them in proving she was “half snake”. While the jury is still out on that answer, Rowles did present some good arguments with drawings, songs and dance. Decked out in her snake costume, she cleverly used her science and education background to hold the audience’s attention. 

To really prove that she was a reptile in disguise, Rowles brought three friends for comparison.  We were first introduced to Georgia the Bobtail Lizard; Rowles brought Georgia around so all the kids could see her. The star of the show was Lisa the Stimson Python; my child was enamoured with Lisa and her stripy features. A couple of kids also got the opportunity to hold Lisa and try to get her out of their hair. Finally, the audience was introduced to Wilma the Woma Python. A little shy, Wilma took some warming up before meeting the audience. As the biggest python, it took six volunteers to hold Wilma. Unlike other animal interaction shows I’ve attended, everyone who was interested, and brave enough, was given the opportunity to touch the animals and say hello. 

Animal safety and hygiene is a paramount during the performance; attendees are supplied with handwash. Additionally, children under the age of three years old must be supervised during A Snake's Tale. 

The final dance with Rowles was overcrowded towards the front of stage, and should have been spread out as the kids danced like reptiles. Despite this, the kids thought her overall antics were hiss-terical. 

For interested adults and children, slither in quickly as A Snake's Tale will only be available in January.