Photo By Cpl. Crystal Druery | Guest were in amazement as they watch acrobats make an extraordinary human pyramid....... read more read more
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SAN DIEGO - Many Marines are in search of something new and exciting to do during their free time that won’t break the bank. Active duty members stationed in San Diego are provided a free, ever-changing, themed experience just down the street.
The San Diego Zoo offers free admission to active duty service members year-round, giving them a chance to spend time with family, learn more about different species, and relax. Performances for all ages are available daily, making this free experience fun for everyone.
“The San Diego Zoo has a history with the military since the early nineteen hundreds,” said Rick Schwartz, the San Diego Zoo ambassador. He explained many Navy ships have been coming through San Diego ports since around 1916; one in particular acquired a bear as a mascot. Once the captain didn’t want the bear any longer, he donated it to the San Diego Zoo.
“We also recognize what the military is doing currently and try to support them,” said Schwartz.
Throughout the seasons different themes are incorporated throughout the San Diego Zoo. This makes for a constant desire for guests interested in new shows and learning things about animals.
One particular event is the annual Nighttime Zoo going on every evening of the summer until September 5. This year’s theme is a China celebration, with magical performances that set off the introduction of the Panda Trek grand opening, a new exhibit where guests can explore the wonders of China. Giant panda bears and other wildlife located in the forests of China can be found there.
As the sun sets over the San Diego Zoo, music fills the ears of the animals and guests while Chinese acrobats captivate the audience with their enchanting aerial performance.
At the opening of the zoo during this China celebration, the Steam Powered Giraffe, a simulated robot pantomime band plays original music and puts on improvised comedy to start off guests’ magical experience. The Front Plaza Street is the Surfin’ Safari Bush Band plays 30 songs from different eras to satisfy everyone’s musical tastes.
During the evening events Professor Fred Featherstone is awaiting guests in the Asian Passage to help point them in the right direction. Nearby, tall monkeys walk around guided by their leader, Sun Wukong, the monkey king.
The main attraction is a performance by the Golden Lion Chinese Acrobats. These skilled acrobats came all the way from China’s Hebei provence to provide a spectacular performance of “Tales of the Mandarin Forest.” This includes more than just acrobatics though; they also perform martial arts, dancing and more.
As the dark of the night prevails, all are bid farewell by the flexible acrobats, stilt-walking monkeys, and the musicians during the "
"entertainment extravaganza."
The many exciting and colorful performances aren’t the only free opportunities at the zoo for active duty members. There are many attractions available year-round. A complimentary bus tour is available to show guests around the zoo.
There is also a new animal show. The renovated Wegeforth Bowl hosts the unveiling of the Camp Critters, where the audience can earn their camp counselor badge while being trained by Harry the sea lion and several other animal species.
“One of the big things is finding unique and different ways to teach people about the animals,” said Schwartz. “This can be done through Doctor Zoolittle or through laughter and musical groups.”
Shortly after the Chinese Celebration ends, a new theme will be unveiled. The zoo will be hosting a Festival of Flight starting in November. Until then, families with children can enjoy Kids Free Days throughout October.
| Date Taken: | 08.24.2011 |
| Date Posted: | 09.08.2011 16:55 |
| Story ID: | 76681 |
| Location: | SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA, US |
| Web Views: | 27 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
This work, Zoo offers affordable, cultural experience - and animals, by Cpl Crystal Druery, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
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