Here’s how you can get tickets to Chester Zoo’s new live stage show with TV presenter Steve Backshall

Wildlife conservationist and TV presenter Steve Backshall to host new stage show at Chester Zoo

The show will put a spotlight on the world’s most misunderstood predators, sharks

Event will take place across May half term

Visitors will see real shark teeth and jaws up close

Tickets are just £5 and funds will support the zoo’s vital conservation efforts globally

Guests staying at the zoo’s hotel on 22 May will have own private talk with Steve Backshall during their stay

TV presenter and wildlife conservationist, Steve Backshall, is bringing a brand-new live show to Chester Zoo this May half term.

A new stage show all about sharks, hosted by world-renowned wildlife conservationist and TV presenter Steve Backshall, is coming to Chester Zoo this May half term. 

The new show, which has been specially created for zoo audiences, will run from 23 – 31 May 2026 and will take visitors on a fascinating journey into the lives and ancient origins of sharks – one of the planet’s most extraordinary and misunderstood predators.

Each 30-minute live show will see audiences travel back in time to discover the earliest sharks that once swam our shorelines, how they have evolved over millions of years, and what makes them such remarkable animals today.

Featuring real shark teeth and jaws, lifelike replicas and historic footage, visitors will have the chance to learn all about a wide variety of species – from the iconic great white to the unusual wobbegong shark. 

Drawing on his own experiences, Steve will also share stories from his own personal encounters with the ocean’s most powerful predators. Visitors will also have the opportunity to ask questions to one of the planet’s most revered wildlife conservationists.

All ticket sales will support the zoo’s vital conservation efforts, both in the UK and in more than 20 countries around the world.

Gemma Wright, Head of Guest Experience at Chester Zoo, said:

“This new stage show has been created from scratch by Steve. Chester Zoo is the only place where you'll be able to see him perform it - so we're really excited. It’s a brilliant opportunity for families to hear first-hand from someone who has spent their whole life exploring and studying wildlife around the world.

“This new stage show has been created from scratch by Steve to help people better understand species that are often misunderstood. Sharks play a vital role in keeping our oceans healthy, and experiences like this can help people feel more connected to the natural world and, importantly, inspired to go on and protect it.”

Guests staying at the zoo’s new 51-lodge resort, The Reserve, will also enjoy a private experience with Steve Backshall on Friday 22 May.

The special evening includes stories from Steve’s global expeditions, wildlife encounters and conservation work, along with the opportunity to chat with him personally. 

TV Presenter and wildlife conservationist, Steve Backshall, added:

“I’m really looking forward to performing my new live show at Chester Zoo. It's somewhere that's doing some incredible work to protect species around the world, so it's the perfect place for me to go and talk about my love of sharks and how we can all do our bit to make the world a better place for them.”

Steve Backshall Live will take place daily from 23 - 31 May, with shows running at 11:30am, 1:00pm, 2:30pm and 4:00pm daily. Tickets are priced at £5 per person and can be booked online at: https://www.chesterzoo.org/events/steve-backshall-live

Zoo visitors will also need to book Chester Zoo admission tickets for the day, or have a valid membership, to attend a show.