By Scary, slithering, yet surprisingly entertaining, reptilian creatures were out of their boxes and putting on a show.
Daryl Sprout, part crocodile hunter, part comedian and senior herpetologist, created a show titled “Snake Encounters” in order to inform the public about the not-so-loved creatures. On January 30th, he brought his humor and knowledge of snakes onto the stage during the showcase of “Snakes Alive in a Museum” at MUZEO, in Anaheim.
The audience screamed with anticipation while Sprout put his hand inside a pillowcase and it got even louder when the milk snake was yanked out and revealed. The onlookers then leaned back and shrieked. “Red and black,” teased Sprout. “No need to jump back or have a heart attack.”
Sprout educated the public and informed them about the misconceptions and myths “[people] tend to carry around” about snakes. He explained the difference between poisonous and venomous and affirmed that there is no such thing as a poisonous snake.
He then went backstage and came back with a bigger box and planted it on the display table.
Adults took pictures, kids whispered, setting the atmosphere for what was to come. The green lights that lit up the stage were subtle and it created a jungle-like vibe.
“Are you ready?” he asked the audience while in a nonchalant pose; arms crossed while resting his body weight on the box. His eyes lurked around the room. Everyone cheered as though giving approval. As Sprout slowly opened the box, gasps were heard throughout the room.
Out sprang a 50-foot snake made out of cotton.
Sprout made it clear that 50-foot snakes only exist in the “silly movies.” But, he did not disappoint those who wanted to see a “bigger” breed of the species when he presented a thick bright-yellow more than 10 foot long Burmese Python.
Wearing his Dundee outfit, Sprout entertained both kids and adults for 45 minutes with his snake buddies and snake antics. He also provided interesting anecdotes and little-known facts on the habits and habitats of snakes.
No snakes were harmed during this event (not even during dangerous stunts) and no one was bitten. It’s a fun family-friendly event. In the words of Creedence Clearwater Revival, “run through the jungle” this Saturday, January 31st, touch a snake, scream your wits out and be a part of the hissing thrill.
The event is open to the general public and consists of three performances at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m.. It includes community partners with information booths, safety etiquette, crafts, storytelling, music and much more.
Admission is only $9, but visit their website at www.muzeo.org for special discount. And while you’re there, visit the east MUZEO building (the same ticket that you bought for the snake event will grant you access to this hip spot), where Philip Burke takes his own angle at portraying “The Color of Rock.” It’s one of the newest exhibitions where you can see Jim Morrison, Tupac, Carlos Santana and many others come to life on canvases.
