If you've seen the Walking With Dinosaurs commercial and think you already know what this is, let me stop you right there. Because I too watched it and I was like, "Oh, giant animatronic dinosaurs doing Jurassic Park in an arena."

Nope. Not even close.

Walking With Dinosaurs is a theatrical show that is very much in the theme of a Discover Channel type program (well, duh BBC produces it) scientifically based, but not without its own drama.

Hosted by Paleontologist Narrator "Huxley" (played by Jack Stone), we're taken back millions of years and through different stages of dinosaurs and the Earth. The story is really about the Dinosaurs, and the production allows the focus to be on these spectacularly portrayed beasts. 17 dinosaurs in all during the show, completely life sized and 'alive". Several times during the show you will have to remind yourself, "no, these are not real dinosaurs."

What makes this production work, beyond the incredible technology that brings these giant lizards to life is the sound and soundtrack of the show. Brilliant roars, storms, suspenseful music...all of it together with some pretty inventive supporting props and lighting are what makes this better than just some kind of puppet show. It draws you in to the whole experience  and make you a part of the action.

If you do decide to bring kids to the show, my advice is to sit back a bit if they're under 10. While there isn't any overt violence in the show, the sound combined with giant roaring dinosaurs will freak out little kids if they're so close. As the dinosaurs lumber and sway across the stage, tails swing close to the crowd, and the lifelike eyes staring at you make you feel like lunch. So if you're bringing little ones, upper deck might be the way to go.

But it is still a great way to entertain the entire family. All ages and interests will find something to be in awe of during the 96 minute show. It holds your attention the entire time. Not once will you check your watch or wonder when it's going to be over.

The show itself as a cohesive piece did well to establish a beginning, middle and climactic ending to a story we pretty much already know. Huxely is a great adventurer type guide to the story, but doesn't try to compete with the real stars of the show, the dinosaurs.

Definitely a must-see for the remaining shows before it leaves town. Walking With Dinosaurs is playing at the Allstate Arena until August 1st.