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School Assemblies
Opening New Horizons for Schools
If we omit the arts from the curriculum, we are
in effect short-changing the mind.
- Howard Gardner, Harvard researcher
Welcome to a new year full of wonderful possibilities in the arts.
Performances To Grow On is adding an important link to arts education with this assembly program to bring the arts to your school.
We believe in a balanced curriculum and the power of the arts
to make the educational process more relevant and exciting. In these
times of standards and testing, the arts can play a vital role in
helping to enrich the curriculum. We hope your school can take advantage
of these extraordinary artists and book assemblies for the coming
year. Each of the programs in this booklet comes with a special
guide designed to help you prepare your students for what they will
see as well as providing follow-up activities.
Performances To Grow On looks forward to being part
of your Arts-in-education program.
To schedule an assembly, fill out an order
form and mail it to:
Performances To Grow On, 201 Park Rd., Ojai, Ca, 93023,
or e-mail bbemel@sbcglobal.net.
Our touring performers are award-winning artists that perform all over the United States. The cost includes their travel and hotel accommodations. These artists are block booked throughout Ventura County making these shows quite affordable compared to a single booking.
You must complete this form for each program you wish to reserve.
A $100 deposit must accompany each assembly reservation. Full payment
is due 1 week prior to the show date. For more information, please
call Brian Bemel, 805-646-8907.
Touring Assemblies: Fixed dates for the 2009-2010 School Year
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Norman Foote
September 14-23 and October 7-11
3 shows $1300, 2 shows $1000, 1show $750
Norman Foote is an award winning entertainer from Vancouver, Canada who has received international acclaim for his song writing, outrageous props and off-beat sense of humor. In the U.S., Norman's music has received Parent Choice & Napa Gold Awards and in Canada he has been given Socan's "Best Songwriter for Children" as well as West Coast Music Awards.
Although he's been called the "Robin Williams of children's music" and the "Howie Mandel of children's theatre," Norman is really like no other. His brilliant adaptation of nursery rhymes that are sung by rock stars has become a classic which defines his talent for creating material that can bridge the generation gap. And in addition to being a gifted comic, Norman is one of North America's finest songwriters. He most recently penned 13 songs for the live KOBA production of Maurice Sendak's/Nelvana animated show Little Bear & The Backyardigans. www.normanfoote.com |
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Galumpha
October 12-16
3 shows $1800, 2 shows $1400, 1 show $1000
Combining stunning acrobatics, striking visual effects, physical comedy and inventive choreography, Galumpha brings to life a world of imagination, beauty, muscle and merriment. The three performers, Andy Horowitz, Greg O’Brien and Marlon Torres have created a sensory feast of images ranging from the ridiculous to the sublime, drawn together into a seamless whole, consistently bringing audiences to their feet. Galumpha is a triumphant mix of art and entertainment, offering world-class, award winning choreography (Edinburgh Festival Critics’ Choice Award) in a performance that kids of all ages will love. This performance is a wonderful introduction to dance. www.galumpha.com | study guide |
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The Euphorics
November 9-17
3 shows $1600, 2 shows $1200, 1 show $900
The Euphorics are one of my all time favorite school assemblies. They take students on a musical journey around the world filled with humor, education and fabulous music. They are a joyous, energetic a cappella quartet, who, since 1983, have been delighting audiences internationally on radio, television, and concert stages, at schools, festivals, and special events of all kinds. Individually, members of the Euphories are powerful lead singers. The Euphorics celebrate their passion for music with plenty of humor and dynamic audience interaction. Through the wonderful and distinct language of song, The Euphorics present a joyful approach to singing without instrumental accompaniment. Using only their voices as a guide, they take their young audience on a journey through musical time: from the cave era, through the Middle Ages and Romantic period and into the 19th, 20th and 21st centuries. With emphasis on audience participation, The Euphorics give an exciting demonstration of the major scale, chord formation and the function of melody, harmony and rhythm in song. Hold onto your seat! We’re going on a global journey. What better way to make exotic faraway places seem real than through music? We’re going to 17th century Germany, Africa, the southern U.S.A., Jamaica and home again. It’s a small world and we all share one language… the language of music. www.euphorics.com | study guide |
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Pushcart Players in "A Season of Miracles"
November 16-24
3 shows $2200, 2 shows $1600, 1 show $1100
A Season Of Miracles by Pushcart Players is a sparkling collection of holiday tales from different cultures including Christmas, (The Gift of the Magi and The Nutcracker) Kwanzaa (The Kwanzaa Kite set in Nigeria) and Chanukah (The Soul of A Menorah - a Chelm story). Crafted and set to music with the timeless tone of each classic tale, -- heartwarming laughter and joy abound within each story. As for miracles? They are the love and kindness and generosity that are the spirit of the season and the heart of each tale! Filled with beauty and magic, laughter and love, A Season Of Miracles is the perfect gift of theatre to celebrate the Winter Holidays! Pushcart Players bring a Broadway style production complete with sets, music and great costumes. www.pushcartplayers.com | video | study guide |
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Oregon Shadow Theatre - Anansi the Spider
Jan. 15-22
3 shows $1600, 2 shows $1200, 1 show
$1000
Last year the OST played schools all over Ventura County and the response was incredible. Combining live music and brilliant shadow puppets with their trademark humor, the Oregon Shadow Theatre will offer your students a never to be forgotten experience. This season they will be bringing their delightful production of Anansi the Spider. www.oregonshadowtheatre.com | study guide |
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North Carolina Youth Tap Ensemble
January 25-29
3 shows $1800, 2 shows $1500, 1 show $1000
NCYTE's engaging dance performances feature cutting-edge contemporary choreography, along with traditional rhythm tap. Dance-styles include South African Gumboot, sand dancing, buck, vaudeville, body percussion, and jazz, highlighting top choreographers, including the legendary Savion Glover. Imagine Stomp, Riverdance, vaudeville, Fred Astaire and Bring In Da Noise all on the same bill — that’s NCYTE! You need a wood stage to present this exciting performance featuring 10 dancers. www.ncyte.org | study guide |
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Val Tutson, storyteller
February 1-5
3 shows $1100, 2 shows $800, 1show $600
Valerie Tutson a graduated from Brown University with a Masters Degree in Theatre Arts and a degree in a self-designed major-Storytelling As A Communications Art. Valerie has been telling stories in schools, churches, libraries, festivals and conferences since 1991. She draws her stories from around the world with an emphasis on African traditions. Her repertoire includes stories and songs she learned in her travels to South Africa, her experiences in West Africa, stories from African American history. www.valerietutson.com
"Valerie Tutson is an energetic, dynamic performer who leaves the room vibrating when she exits. Her voice, facial expressions, and dance movements make her presentation a delight for children and adults. Her stories range from humorous to frightening to plain fun-- and they kept the attention of a challenging audience (spanning from about a year and a half to seventy-five)."
— Randy Robert, Director New York State Museum, Albany, NY |
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Pushcart Players in
Happily Ever After… A Cinderella Tale (brand new!)
February 17-18
3 shows $2200, 2 shows $1600, 1 show $1100
It seems tht we are never too old nor do we ever grow tired of hearing this beloved story. Perhaps it is because it’s about overcoming adversity, about dreaming dreams and about goodness, generosity, and compassion. Perhaps it’s also about things that help us learn and grow, such as the unbecoming nature of bully behavior; the importance of good choices and being responsible for the choices we make. Music, magic and many zany characters fill the stage and make this production is a wondrous journey from long, long ago to happily ever after. www.pushcartplayers.com | study guide |
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Doug Berky in Gems
March 16-24
3 shows $1500, 2 shows $1100, 1 show $800
Doug Berky presents stories from around the world. He is a wonderful mask artist and physical performer. Classic collections such as Aeosop’s Fables from Greece, the Jataka Tales from India, and stories of Hans Christian Andersen from Denmark have inspired and educated the world’s young people for years. Also included in the performance are stories from lesser known collections of folklore and mythology from Asian, African, the Middle Eastern, and Native American peoples. It is through story that people around the world have passed on knowledge and wisdom to their children. In a performance of Gems, Doug weaves together many art forms to create the fabric of the stories. Masks, puppets, mime, drama, comedy, music, and storytelling are integral elements that help the audience to experience these treasures of wisdom. The composition of each performance of Gems is determined by considering the audience, the occasion, and the venue of an engagement. A performance might include a selection from the following stories: The Lion and the Mouse The Boy Who Cried Wolf (Aeosop’s) The Drip Nose Boy (Native American) The Lame Man and the Blind Man (Middle East) The Tiger’s Whisker (Korea) The Crocodile and the Monkey (India). www.dougberkytheatre.com | study guide |
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Activated Storytellers
April 12-16
3 shows $1150, 2 shows $900, 1 show: $600
The Act!vated Storytellers invite students to come along for a voyage of the imagination to foreign lands, distant eras and colorful cultures. Since 1988, thousands of elementary, middle school and Jr. High students (and teachers) have laughed and learned as the Act!vated Storytellers have held them spellbound during school assemblies in 44 states plus Washington, D.C. Each show is a theatrical production, complete with sets (a giant, one of a kind, oversized book), costumes, imaginative props, music, dance, acrobatics, American Sign Language and audience participation. The Act!vated Storytellers promote reading, folk tales, performing arts, and students learning and having fun together! www.activated-storytellers.com |
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Claudia Villela
April 15-16
3 shows $1200, 2 shows $900, 1 show $600
Claudia Viella is a brilliant vocalist and she will be joined by guitarist Richard Peixoto and together this wonderful duo will take your students on a fun filled journey to the music of Brazil. Claudia has played festivals around the world and her 5 octave vocal range and warm personality will wow your students. When people think of Brazilian music, the Samba and iAs a child in Rio de Janiero, Claudia Villela would fall asleep lulled by the music from a samba school that practiced nightly behind her grandparents' home. "I woke up to the sound of my mother singing while my father played the harmonica," she recalls. "My singing is the sum of all the music I've heard, from Brazilian baroque to bossa nova to free jazz, the nostalgic and modern. It comes from all those memories." Audiences are drawn to the dimension and playfulness of her jazz singing, which has its own memorable character. As San Francisco Examiner jazz critic Phil Elwood put it, "Villela actually dances with her voice on top of Brazilian beats." www.claudiavillela.com |
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David Gonzalez
April 28-29
2 shows $1000, 1 show for $750
With speech, sound, mime, dance and above all, inspired imagination, nationally acclaimed master storyteller/performer David Gonzalez is keeping the ancient art of storytelling alive. From London 's Royal National Theater to Broadway to hundreds of schools across North America , Gonzalez has performed to more than 5,000 audiences worldwide. A winner of the Helen Hayes Performing Artist of the Year Award, Gonzalez is applauded for his vocal, physical and narrative talents and gift for mimicry, comic timing, and wordplay. Relying on the majesty and variety of language, the limitless landscape of imagination, the pulse of music and the beauty of art, he creates and performs multimedia productions that capture audiences of all ages and cultures. Described as "a New York Puerto Rican version of Bill Cosby," Gonzalez tells ages-old world myths and stories, tales from his Puerto Rican and Cuban culture, and from his childhood experiences in the Bronx . As poet/guitarist/band leader, Gonzalez has created three jazz-infused shows that combine his contemporary, resonantly rich poetry with the Afro-Cuban rhythms, swing, funk, and rumba of Latin jazz. www.davidgonzalez.com |
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Hobey Ford, Master Puppeteer - Animalia
April 19-28
3 shows $1300, 2 shows $1000, 1 show $700
Hobey Ford has created a special new stage production to feature his famous foamies. This beautiful production explores the world of animals from both an environmental realistic point of view as well as the cultural creatures of myth and lore. Ford breaks out of the traditional puppet theater booth turning the entire theater into his performance stage. The pieces include a magnified look at butterfly metamorphosis, the world of birds, the classic undersea ballet of whales, frolicking dolphins and otters, as well as his ever- popular dragons. If you have ever witnessed the magic of these animated carved foam creatures you will certainly want to experience Ford’s artistry and technical wizardry in “Animalia.” “Animalia” takes its title from the scientific name for the animal kingdom. The show does not have any spoken words. Instead, animal behaviors are set to the music of alto saxophonist Paul Winter, who is known for compositions containing the sounds of wolf, whale and eagle. “This is something different, Ford says. “It just unravels kind of like you’re watching Animal Planet.” Ford speaks afterward and takes questions from the audience. The puppeteer says he’s been pleasantly surprised at how well the wordless format has worked. He also says it’s not always entirely wordless. The audience tends to chime in, and storytelling audiences chime in really well. There’s always someone asking, “Hey what’s that bird doing”, he says. “ It’s kind of nice” www.hobeyford.com | study guide |
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Samite, Music from Uganda
April 26-29
2 shows $1000, 1 show $750
A musician, composer, and photographer from Uganda , Samite writes music that celebrates Ugandan culture. He sings in his native tongue of Luganda and performs on African instruments such as the kalimba, marimba, litungu and flute. Samite merges traditional and contemporary music, resulting in a highly accessible fusion. As a child in Uganda , Samite's grandfather taught him to play traditional flute and his primary schooling was within the King's Courtyard. There royal musicians played for the King and that daily influence instilled within him the rhythms and patterns of the traditional music of his people—the Baganda. Today, Samite’s frequent visits to Uganda , Kenya and Tanzania enrich his dynamic multimedia presentation. Samite projects original photos of the animals, people, dwellings, and culture of East Africa . Your school will experience the beauty and rhythms of Africa and its people with Samite as your guide. Samite has been involved with in-school and outreach education programs for over 10 years. He believes that through education he can open people’s minds and hearts. Students learn the common threads of human concerns and cultures as Samite conveys optimism through stories, songs, and photographs. "I am convinced that we are all moved by the same desires, needs and emotions, regardless of the language in which those feelings are expressed," says Samite. www.samite.com |
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Robert Michaels
Canada’s Juno Award Winning Musician
May 17-21
3 shows $1250, 2 shows $1000, 1 show $800
Robert is not only a fabulous guitarist with an incredible band, which is all tremendous on a musical and technical level, but he is an entertainer with broad and infectious appeal. While still appealing to the music driven fan, his performances provide something for everyone. Everyone goes away having learned and experienced something special. Robert Michaels’ performance at the elementary school was upbeat and engaging. In a room packed wall to wall with 5-10 year olds, he drew the attention of every eye and ear.” Julia Cline, Operations and Education Director, Promusica Chamber Orchestra, Columbus, OH To see where Robert came from is to look at a fourteen year-old boy growing up in Toronto wanting, more than anything in the world, to learn how to play guitar. Initially his parents doubted his dedication and refused to buy him one. Undaunted, he picked up a piece of wood, drew on some frets and nailed six pieces of plain string on to it. He then sat in his room for hours on end practicing silent chords. Eventually his parents relented and bought him his first guitar and from that day he soared. Robert will dazzle your students as his trio takes your students on a musical journey around the world. www.robertmichaels.com |
Assemblies by Arrangement for the 2009-2010 School Year
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Aesop’s Fables
1 assembly $450; 2 assemblies $550; 3 assemblies $750
Aesop’s Fables are brought t life through a combination of storytelling, puppetry, pantomime and props. The Fables are told using live and pre-recorded narration, music and a variety of character voices to create a show that is both fun and educational. |
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Alfredo Rolando Ortiz, Harpist Extraordinaire
1 assembly $500; 2 assemblies $725; 3 assemblies $950
Best to have separate assemblies for grades K-3 and 4-5
Elementary schools: Maximum number of students per assembly 350.
Middle School and High School: Flexible.
Invited to return again and again by many schools, over 300,000 children have enjoyed his assemblies! The educational content, adapted to the age and educational levels of the students, includes subjects such as history, geography, language, math, science and others. Assemblies available include:
- WORLD ADVENTURES WITH A HARP: Alfredo's personal life stories bring to the students his adventures of migration, hardship and success, including his birth in Cuba and his travel to Venezuela as a child, where he learned the Venezuelan folk harp from a school friend. He then learned the Paraguayan harp and immigrated to Colombia, where, thanks to his music, he became a medical doctor. The internationally acclaimed harpist, composer and author is also the winner of a GOLD RECORD in South America. He interweaves his true-life adventure stories with spectacular music from several countries, music composed to the birds, the crops - even music improvised in the delivery room during the birth of his second daughter! study guide
- THE WATER CYCLE ON HARP: Learn about the Water Cycle through music composed to the sea, lakes, rivers, evaporation, clouds, rain and even the world famous IGUAZU waterfalls in the jungle of South America. Explore the creative process of the composer, inspired by nature to imitate on his harp even thunder and "a light in the sea." Each aspect of the cycle is clearly explained and the students participate in the creation of special sound effects to accompany some of the music. study guide
- WORLD HOLIDAYS ON HARP: Traditional Latin American melodies, international holiday favorites as well as original music celebrate Kwanzaa, Christmas, Hanukkah, the New Year and more in this fun assembly which also includes audience participation.
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Antonio Sacre, Bilingual Storyteller
1 assembly $600; 2 assemblies $850; 3 assemblies $1100
Antonio is a nationally acclaimed storyteller that tells folktales from Latin America and original stories with humor and style. Antonio connects with students of all ages and his warm personality and engaging style are a winning combination for students of all ages. Antonio is also a published author. |
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Ashas Baba
1 assembly: $625, 2 assemblies: $850, 3 assemblies: $1075
Music, Stories & Amazingly More! with Asha’s Baba” is an astonishing amalgam of songs, singing, African harp playing, interactive games, storytelling and much, much more! Lessons on geography, history, music, languages and cultures are ingeniously and surreptitiously interwoven into the vibrant fabric that is Baba’s energetic, entertaining and witty performance.
Show learning objective: Students will learn of continental Africa’s geography, geology, history, languages, and cultures (music, clothing, food, games, etc.) and the important relationship of its’ land and peoples to the Americas. State of California educational standard connections employed during a typical performance include: History/Social Science, English/Language Arts, Music, Foreign Language and Theater.
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Beth Sussman - Concert Pianist
1 assembly $450; 2 assemblies $700; 3 assemblies $950
Juilliard trained pianist, Beth Sussman, uses classical music, literature and poetry to encourage students to read, use their imaginations and improve their listening skills in her highly interactive programs.
NEW SHOW!! Music Tells a Story – Foster a love of reading through stories, music and imaginative games as students learn that music is a language that can express feelings and tell a story.
Who's Afraid of Classical Music? Become active listeners and make listening fun through games and other interactions as Beth plays accessible classical music including selections familiar from cartoons and commercials.
Needed: a tuned piano. Artist can provide a digital keyboard for an additional rental fee if requested in advance. study guide |
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Boxtales
Iron John or Got Homer
1 or 2 assemblies $950; 3 assemblies $1250. video
Iron John: Mining mythology for relevancy for our times, BOXTALES brings this classic tale to life on the stage. This dynamic production is based on the Brothers Grimm tale of "Iron John", in which a youth uses a golden key to open up the vital creativity needed for the trials of life. The story as a parable about maturing into adulthood through meaningful rites of passage. www.boxtales.org |
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Got Homer? is BOXTALES new elementary outreach show based on The Odyssey, our big stage production for middle and high schools.
Heroic Tales from Greek Mythology. In this show, Greek Hero Odysseus tells of his ten-year journey home form the Trojan War. His encounters with Poseidon, Athena, Zeus, the Cyclops, the Sirens and many other adventures are presented in the classic BOXTALES style. Don’t miss this unforgettable, curriculum oriented show. www.boxtales.org |
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The Chameleons - Mime, Dance and
Movement
Elementary through High School
Touching and funny, their highly crafted vignettes reach students of all ages. Three shows available:
- Mime Over Matter -(a collection of classic mime plays, including the Life Cycle, The Escalator, etc.). 1 assembly $900; 2 assemblies $1000; 3 assemblies $1300.
- Adventures in Space - (a highly original theatre piece that actually ties into the science framework, performed to a thrilling narrated and musical sound track). 1 assembly $900; 2 assemblies $1000; 3 assemblies $1300.
- The Wonder of Words -(a solo piece by Keith Berger in a highly original theatre piece that ties into the language framework). 1 assembly $650, 2 assemblies $750, 3 assemblies $950.
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Craig Newton - A Journey Through America's
Music
1 assembly $600; 2 assemblies $700; 3 assemblies $850
Elementary
This 45 minute presentation carries the audience from the roots of American music, English-Irish-Scottish folk and religious songs, to the present day scene of rock, pop and whatever. To make the music come alive, Craig uses a variety of instruments, including acoustic and electric guitars, mandolin, banjo, flute, harmonica and others. The emphasis is on music rather than lecturing.
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Dan Crow
1 assembly $500; 2 assemblies $650; 3 assemblies $850
Elementary
Dan is a wonderful performer known for his zany songs and stories. The biggest secret about Dan is that his school shows are not only fun but quite educational. For the primary grades his focus is on sounds and Dan explores language in a way kids will never forget. For upper grades, Dan does songs about homonyms, prepositions, palindromes, etc., as well as myths and his own original stories. Dan's friendly manner and zany characters are a winning combination your students will long cherish. www.dancrow.com | study guide | video |
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Dos Amigos
1 assembly $550; 2 assemblies $750; 3 assemblies $925
Two Friends: Dos Amigos is a one-act bilingual play by Paul Morse. Set on a basketball court in a neighborhood park, the story concerns the developing relationship of two boys from different cultures who resolve their differences across the language barrier and become friends. I found it to be poignant, humorous and thought provoking, an excellent piece of theater that kids of all ages can relate to. |
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H20 Where Do You Go?
1 assembly: $625, 2 assemblies: $850 3 assemblies: $1075
With music and comedy, this show answers the following questions:
- What is H2O?
- Where does drinking water come from and how does it get to my faucet at home?
- What is the water cycle?
- What are the three states of water?
- Why is conserving water important?
- How can we conserve water?
"I just wanted to let you know that the assembly here at Laurel Elementary was superb! The teachers and students genuinely enjoyed it, and it was very age-appropriate and of course, curriculum-appropriate. Thank you for an excellent assembly."
—Traci Galloway, SBRT, Laurel Elementary |
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Jim Cogan, Storyteller
1 assembly $550; 2 assemblies $800; 3 assemblies $1050
Jim Cogan creatively incorporates sound, movement, a myriad of facial expressions, and audience participation in his dynamic presentation. study guide | video
Quijote Storyteller weaves together folklore, fable, legend, myths, history, and personal stories designed for his audience. Jim selects from some 300 tales to create everything from participation stories to multi-cultural folk tales and stories to fit the California Social Studies Framework.
The Language of Health, a storytelling-based interactive drug education program, is offered for grades K–3, 4–6, and 7–8. |
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John and Juan
1 assembly $900; 2 assemblies $100; 3 assemblies $1300
John and Juan is a lively romp through the history of California, the Golden State Juan, a Mexican immigrant, and John, a native Californian, discover their common heritage as they humorously recreate famous characters and historic moments in California’s rich past. Beginning with Conquistadores, Juan brings to life early figures of the Hispanic exploration of Alta California. John, as one of the original “pobladores” or settlers of El Pueblo de Los Angeles is given a can of spam along with other provisions to start a city—an historical anachronism for sure, but these actors are willing to wink occasionally at reality to bring history to life! In the end, everyone will have a good time and learn along with John and Juan that we all have a part to play in the ongoing story of California. |
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John Zeretzke
John Zeretske (A World of Music, Goin’South, Salam and Ancient Grooves).
Professional Teacher Training: Exploration and Connections in the Visual and Performing Arts: 1.5 to 2 hours: $450; 2-4 hours: $550
A World of Music
1 assembly $550; 2 assemblies $750; 3 assemblies $900
With a new and revised show for the season, award-winning artist/educator, composer and world musician John Zeretzke will take you away with "A World of Music." From ancient nomadic double reed shawms to the Hungarian, goat-shaped bagpipe, this unique program will explore aspects of music from early civilizations to the present, including the electric-computerized Steinberger 5-string violin. Connections to modern day band, orchestra and popular instruments are high-lighted. Cultural and historical information is woven into this magical, musical journey. Performances are highly engaging as well as interactive.
Music, Art and Innovation with John Zeretzke
1 assembly $600; 2 assemblies $800; 3 assemblies $1100
From music boxes and hurdy gurdies to Theremins and synthesizers, the birth of mechanical and electric instruments paved the way to every innovation and modern design in music today. This performances combines music, visual art and scientific innovation to present a contemporary look at modern culture. Jimi Hendrix, John Cage, Kandinsky, Jackson Pollock, the loop recorder and more join forces to present a musical, scientific and visual arts performance. Wow!
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Goin' South
1 assembly $925; 2 assemblies $1200; 3 assemblies $1400
Welcome to a home spun performance of foot stompin' Cajun music, back woods Appalachian mountain tunes, New Orleans street jazz, Zydeco music of the Creoles, the roots of blues and bottleneck guitar styles along with a host of other musical treats. Led by John Zeretzke, A Journey South is a one of a kind performance of music from the southeastern United States. The ensemble is composed of some of America's finest professional musicians artist/educators trained in the skills and techniques of the musical arts and sciences. This fascinating exploration and educational program will open student's minds and hearts into the history and roots of American music and our own unique traditional instruments of the south. |
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Salaam
1 assembly $925; 2 assemblies $12000; 3 assemblies $1400
The Salaam Ensemble brings together four famous and inspiring musical talents of the Arab-American music world in this outstanding performance of vocal and instrumental music from the middle and near east, a world of magical sounds that are unfamiliar in our every day lives here in America. Students will see and hear such ancient instruments as the oud (lute), ney (cane flute), kemence’ (bowed spike fiddle) and darabuka or dombek (goblet drum). These styles and forms of music have been heard throughout the middle and near east for thousands of years, delighting listeners of all ages. Story-telling, history, geography, personal and descriptive narrative are woven into this exotically rhythmic educational show. Audience participation is encouraged and guided by the performers during the show, which includes clapping traditional rhythmic patterns of eastern music and some ‘on stage’ music making with the performers. |
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Ancient Grooves
1 assembly $925; 2 assemblies $1200; 3 assemblies $1400
Ancient Grooves is a uniquely versatile ensemble of master musicians performing on musical instruments from around the world. The magic of the ensemble comes from the dazzling expertise and knowledge of its world acclaimed musicians. Each member brings to the ensemble an amazing array of skills, rare and exotic instruments, historic knowledge, musicianship and their personal stories and love of indigenous music to the concert stage. |
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Jon Pearson - Creative Learning
1 assembly $550; 2 assemblies $750; 3 assemblies $975
Elementary through High School
Specials:
- 2 Assemblies + 3 workshops in classrooms - $975
- 1/2 day staff in-service - $1000
- All day staff in-service - $2000
- Parent evening combined with assemblies - $425
- 1 hour teacher inservice added on to assemblies- $425 wh
Jon Pearson is a winner of the 2001 Professional Artist in the Schools Award and was the keynote speaker on arts in education for the 2002 California PTA Convention. He has performed on stage, television, and in the schools for over fifteen years. He has developed a completely unique way of learning that has worked with over one million students, teachers, and parents around the world. Jon has a variety of programs that take what students like to do – DRAW – and shows how drawing can motivate reading, writing, thinking, and self-confidence. His assemblies are a fast-paced blend of drawing, dramatization, storytelling, and audience participation that transforms the drawing process into an amazing language and memory tool. He works with any size group and all ages - kindergarten through university. Mr. Pearson offers student assemblies, workshops, staff in-services that "raise test scores naturally," and parent education evenings. |
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Michael Katz
“Michael Katz launched into his first tale, silence reigned. Katz is a versatile performer and wonderful storyteller"
— Los Angeles Times.
1 assembly $545; 2 assemblies $725; 3 assemblies $950
Storyteller Michael Katz, a founding member of the popular BOXTALES storytelling/theater troupe, also presents several engaging assemblies featuring his own highly animated style of storytelling. Michael has been telling for 15 years, has performed throughout California and U.S., and hosts his own storytelling radio program on the South and Central Coast called "Katz Pajamas."
Tell me a Story Residency - Michael will be offering a storytelling residency that consists of 2 assemblies and 16 classroom workshops over a 4 week period for $1,9455. His 3 day residency includes 12 workshops and 2 assemblies, $1625. He also offers a two day residency that consists of 6 classroom workshops and two assemblies for $1025. The residencies are designed to offer students and teachers an in-depth experience in the art of storytelling.
Assembly Programs:
- What’s in a Story? In this show, Michael shares his love of stories and the breadth of what makes up the storytelling tradition by telling a wide variety traditions including multi-cultural folktales, myths, personal and original tales.
- Multicultural Folktales and Myths- Folktales from around the world.
- Ghost Stories- Age appropriate tales.
- Do the Right Thing- Multicultural tales which deal with consequences and morals learned from making good and bad choices.
- Jewish Folktales- Lively telling of folktales
and original stories from the rich and hilarious Jewish
storytelling tradition.
- Cuentos de Mexico - A new assembly with Michael Katz and Luis Perez to introduce students and staff to the power of storytelling and music as a way to communicate the richness of Mexican culture, cultural values, music and literacy. This bi-lingual show is comprised of three wonderful stories: The self-affirming myth from the Raramuri tribe of Northern Mexico called Tohui, an original magical tale by Luis Perez called The Mystery of the Iguana, and the hilarious folktale of Tia Miseria. The show features the amazing musical talent of Luis Perez along with the captivating storytelling style of Michael Katz. $1025 for one or two assemblies.
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Michael McCarty - Storyteller
1 assembly $550; 2 assemblies $750; 3 assemblies $900
Known for his high-energy performances, Michael will take your students across the globe through story. Using humor, movement and spirited telling, Michael will captivate your students with his exciting program. video |
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Moira Smiley and VOCO
1 show $750, 2 shows $1250
Moira Smiley & VOCO (vocals, cello, banjo) brings shimmering four-part vocal harmony, crooked rhythms and inventive instrumentals to original song. With vocal sounds called up from Sarajevo to Dublin, Appalachia to the Avant-garde, Moira Smiley & VOCO is about the voice – explored with unrivaled integrity and playfulness. VOCO pulls the audience in with laughter, participation, improvisation and percussive movement, and their joyous and moving story songs. Singing new spirituals, old ballads and dance-songs, these improvisors leap high across vocal bounds while cello and banjo weave in the funk and grace at the low end. In their school assembly programs, they show their playful use of the voice, and both the quirks and beauty of the banjo, accordion and cello. VOCO touches on the folk traditions that celebrate how people sing together (North American, Balkan, South African especially) – with harmony, improvisation, ornamentation. video |
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ON Ensemble
1 assembly $700; 2 assemblies $950; 3 assemblies $1200
With the powerful rhythms of ensemble taiko music as its foundation, the On Ensemble combines musical and dance talents of its four members into unique and provocative performances. On Ensemble School Demo/Lectures provide a unique opportunity for students to be exposed to and learn about taiko drumming and its Japanese roots. The exciting, 50 minute presentation intersperses educational material with engaging and powerful music. Students learn about the various instruments of the ensemble , their names , and how these instruments changed as they made their way from ancient origins to their current use in ensemble taiko. Students learn and participate in the oral tradition of taiko, learning rhythms by vocalizing them. Students hear a range of compositions from heart-pounding, energetic to soothing and melodic. On Ensemble performances are tailored to provide students musical knowledge in an educational, engaging and exciting exposure to taiko drumming. video |
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The Perfect Gentlemen
1 assembly $800; 2 assemblies 1200; 3 assemblies $1600
The purpose of this educational show is to illustrate not only how music and harmony have changed over the last one hundred years but also how the public experiences music through the medium in which they receive it. The show is crafted to take the audience on a musical journey through time, beginning with a re-creation of the classic American image by Norman Rockwell from the cover of the Saturday Evening Post called “Barbershop Quartet,” and ending with today's most popular form of commercial music, rap and hip-hop. www.theperfectgentlemen.us | video |
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Phil Briggs
One show $525; 2 shows $675; 3 shows $875
The World in the Circus - Tracing the history of the circus from ancient Egypt, Asia, Africa, Europe and the Americas Circus arts come from everywhere. Drawing from his experience in the Ringling Brothers and Barnum and Bailey Circus and his degree in Theatre from Duke University, Philip Briggs, as ringmaster, clown, juggler and acrobat will entertain and educate his audiences about the historical and cultural beginnings of this most eclectic art form.
Clowning with the Classics - A clown's interpretation of the works of Mozart, Bach and Beethoven Classical music remains an enduring part of our cultural landscape. Mr. Briggs (Epoxie the Clown) will transform from bumbling buffoon to triumphant hero through the inspiration of several classical compositions. Clown, juggling, plate spinning and rope walking routines will be performed to the works of Beethoven, Khachaturian, Copeland and others demonstrating the inspirational power of classical music |
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Pierre Cruzatte -
A Musical Journey on the Lewis and Clark Trail
1 assembly $450; 2 assemblies $650; 3 assemblies $800
Elementary
The main navigator and most esteemed musician of the Lewis & Clark Expedition, Pierre Cruzatte comes to life in this one-man show written and performed by Daniel Slosberg. Playing fiddle, jaw harp, bones, spoons, and other instruments of the expedition, Slosberg takes you on an unforgettable musical voyage-with stops along the way for humorous and moving stories about the journey and Cruzatte's critical contributions to it. Formerly a musician with the nationally known Aman Folk Ensemble, Slosberg has performed and taught in hundreds of schools throughout the country. "Pierre Cruzatte" is suitable for audiences of all ages. A special program of music and song is available for younger children. video
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Razzle-Bam-Boom / Beckwith & Thomas
1 assembly $725; 2 assemblies $975; 3 assemblies $1225
Mark Beckwith and Obediah Thomas combine guitar, trumpet, banjo, vocals, percussion, humor, movement, juggling, and audience participation to create several distinctively different "edu-tational" shows for schools, libraries, and family venues. Four shows to choose from. video
All That Trash (ecology and recycling)
The musical-comedy All That Trash features three characters: Professor Pile (played by Mark Beckwith), Tuba (played by Michael Heatherton) and a non-speaking puppet named Polly Ethylene (operated by Mr. Beckwith), who is made from recyclable materials.Faced with the problems of wasted natural resources and too much garbage, Professor Pile helps Tuba discover solutions such as reducing, reusing, recycling, and rethinking the future. The performers use song, humor, and audience participation to communicate and demonstrate concepts about conservation and science. An onstage video screen artistically displays photo collages.
History of Rock And Roll
The roots of Rock and Roll music go back much further than the Beatles, Little Richard or Elvis Presley. Through musical performance, humor, and audience participation, Razzle Bam Boom explores the early cultural influences that led to this 20th century phenomenon. This program is a great blend of fun, culture, and education.
200 Years of American Music
From Stephen Foster to George M. Cohan, from Fats Waller to John Philip Sousa, musician-performers, Beckwith & Thomas incorporate their own zany brand of humor as they sing and play their way back through time and across America. Bluegrass, Gospel, Hawaiian, Western, Jazz, Blues, Folk and Rock 'n Roll are performed with guitar, trumpet, banjo, and vocals. Audiences enjoy doing Cajon hambonin', singing contests, and watching surprise guests from the audience dance the Charleston or the Jitterbug. study guide
The Wright Brothers
As we approach 100 years of man in flight, Beckwith & Thomas present, with song and humor, the facts about Orville and Wilbur's quest. Beckwith & Thomas assemble a half-scaled, 20-foot wing span model of the original "Flyer" right on stage during the program. Peer pressure awareness and staying on a course of action are among the many character lessons taught and demonstrated in this lively musical program. The show is filled with plenty of laughs and audience participation. - primary grades study guide | secondary grades study guide
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Viver Brasil, Dance and Music Company
1 assembly $950; 2 assemblies $1300; 3 assemblies $1450
This Los Angeles based ensemble was founded in 1997 and is committed to cultivating Afro-Brazilian dance and music traditions. The company has developed a body of work that represents the traditional and contemporary Afro-Brazilian dance and music experience. The company received the prestigious Lester Horton Dance Award in 2000 for outstanding achievement in a company performance/no-western dance. The performance is exciting, educational and entertaining with beautiful costumes, unusual instruments and acrobatics. www.viverbrasil.com | video
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We Tell Stories
1 assembly $625; 2 assemblies $800; 3 assemblies $1000
Elementary through Middle Grades
Folklore and fine literature come to life when We Tell Stories comes to town. With their old trunks full of costumes and props, their extemporaneous style, and their imaginative ways of involving the audience in every production, it is play along theater for young hearts. Since 1981, this multi-ethnic storytelling troupe has inspired thousands of audience members to say, "I could do that!" Titles available: The Soul of the Story, Cuentos de la Familia, Earth Tales, Let Them Eat Books, Asian Tales, Choosing My Way, Season of Giving, and On Our Feet in Open Court (stories from each grade level of the Open Court Reading series), etc. www.wetellstories.org | video |
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