Captain Bennie Kirkbride turned pinniped-packed performances into shows that had Zoo audiences roaring with laughter for 35 years. What began in 1948 as a less-than-10-minute act grew into elaborate productions incorporating the 3 types of shows that Bennie developed during his years at the Zoo: a dry act, which featured seals and sea lions performing on the stage; a diving act, which took place in the Wegeforth Bowl pool; and the most unusual—the seals and sea lions presenting their skills while riding ponies.