Science of Dragons Show Notes 2024

The Science of Dragons Show

Join Scientific Sue on this historical and creative journey of scientific discovery

This show is was inspired by the the books written by Cressida Cowell ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ *

While Cressida never mentions the words “science” or “engineering” in her books, her young Vikings and their dragons engage in astonishingly scientific feats. This thrilling show has been developed to uncover whether Cressida is secret scientist —or simply a fantastic storyteller.

In this dynamic show, your students will be immersed in the fascinating science behind dragon flight, fire types, and more. Scientific Sue will guide brave volunteers through a spectacular investigation of colour changes, ice fog**, explosive gases, burning rocks, and the fiery chemistry that creates smoke and flames.

Stepping into the Viking lab, Scientific Sue and her trainee Vikings and dragons will uncover the incredible science behind dragon magic! Inspired by the amazing abilities of Stormfly, the mood dragon, we’ll explore how her scales change colour with her emotions and discover the secrets of invisibility. Could these powers really exist? With the help of a daring Viking hero, Sue will investigate and recreate these astonishing phenomena.

But the adventure doesn’t stop there! With the assistance of another brave volunteer, Meatlug, the lovable yet fierce Gronckle, will be trained to spit missiles at the attacking Hooligans. And when a Viking ship looms on the horizon, we’ll discover that Cressida Cowell’s tale of fiery, rock-spitting dragons isn’t so far-fetched after all. Watch in awe as fizzing “rocks” explode with chemical reactions, sending the invaders flying skywards!

This explosive and unforgettable show blends science and storytelling to ignite curiosity, foster critical thinking, and inspire a love for science. It will leave audiences amazed, inspired, and buzzing with excitement as they wonder if dragons might just be real. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to bring the magic of The Science of Dragons to life in your school!

*Don’t know the books? You can buy the full set of 12 books for an amazing £45 (RRP £83) when you book this show.


**Subject to client booking dry ice – additional cost £70

Please note that the science and engineering content and the storytelling and game playing aspects of the show vary for different key stages and audience types.

This show covers the following themes and topics:

  • Forces and Energy

    Balancing Dragon Template

  • Properties of Materials
  • Acid and Base/Alkali reactions
  • Combustion
  • Flight and buoyancy
  • Tests for Hydrogen, Oxygen and Carbon dioxide
  • Literacy links
  • Teaching notes are given in the link above!
  • Click here for Scientific Sue’s Acrobatic Dragon