FLORIDA LI B R A R Y A S S O C I A T I O N
Performers &
Entertainers
DIRECTORY
2012
table of contents
Artz Out Loud ..................................................................3
Karen Climer’s Crazy Balloon Show...............................7
Atlantic Coast Theatre (A.C.T.) For Youth.......................3
Katie Adams’ Make Believe Theater, Puppetry &
Backintyme......................................................................3
Storytelling.......................................................................7
Ballad of America ...........................................................3
Kaye Byrnes Storytelling.................................................7
The Battersby Duo...........................................................3
Magic and Mayhem.........................................................7
Bits ‘N Pieces Puppet Theatre........................................3
Merlina the Magical Storyteller......................................8
Bonnie Gray Productions................................................4
Mr. Bob the Magician......................................................8
BoomerBeats...................................................................4
Mr. Richard, Children’s Singer and Songwriter or
Butch Harrison Florida Cracker Storyteller....................4
Mr. Richard and the Pound Hounds (if booking trio)....8
Carrie Sue Ayvar, Storyteller...........................................4
Ninth Period Shows.........................................................8
Chris Kastle.....................................................................4
Orisirisi African Folklore..................................................8
Dan Christopher … and friends!.....................................4
Out of My Hands..............................................................8
Darrell House..................................................................5
The Pied Piper and other Fantastic Tales......................9
Dr. Annette Laing’s Imaginative Journeys......................5
Presidents and their First Ladies, dramatically
Dr. Tom’s Semi-Silent Theatre........................................5
speaking..........................................................................9
Earthlings.........................................................................5
Quite a Catch...................................................................9
Eric Herman and the Invisible Band..............................5
Razzmatazz Entertainment............................................9
Fandagumbo Celebration! Sing Along Concert with
Rick Huddle.....................................................................9
SongSister Austin............................................................5
Seminole County Music Together..................................9
Feeling Good and Singing Good.....................................6
Sherry Norfolk, Storyteller............................................10
Finn & Fiona....................................................................6
Songs & Stories with Mrs. Claus..................................10
The Franzini Family Science Circus................................6
Stage Dreams - Life as an Entertainer........................10
Games2U Orlando...........................................................6
Stand-Up Librarian Meredith Myers.............................10
Geddy the Gecko’s Dream Big Reading Show..............6
The Storytelling Sims: Wayne & Jane Sims.................10
Godwin’s Gatorland Inc..................................................6
Tampa Taiko Japanese Drumming Cultural
Jacki Manna’s Dare to Dream Show..............................7
Outreach Program.........................................................10
Jane Rosenbohm Guitar Extraordinaire.........................7
Unbound Booking..........................................................11
Performers & Entertainers
The following information was compiled by the FLA Performers’ Showcase Subcommittee 2012. The listings provided in this directory are for informational purposes
only, and do not constitute a recommendation.
Artz Out Loud
Ballad of America
Contact: Donna Wissinger & Joy Myers
Address: 2199 Astor St., #502,
Orange Park, FL 32073
Phone: (407) 492-8876 (cell)
Email: topformdrw@aol.com
Website: www.donnawissinger.com
Cost: $600, plus travel
Ages: 7 years-adult
Length: 50 minutes
Certificate of Insurance: no
Regions: all
Stage a Revolution! Present the merry minstrels! Host an afternoon of American
beauty and delight! Artz Out Loud offers library audiences 3 programs that
entertain and inspire. 1) An American Tapestry: Feats of Imagination (books,
music, art). 2) The World Turned Upside Down (American Revolution). 3)
Beowulf: a Tale of Courage and Honor. On State Touring Roster
Atlantic Coast Theatre (A.C.T.) For Youth
Contact: Don Gruel
Address: 8297 Champions Gate Blvd., #188,
Champions Gate, FL 33896
Phone: (877) 565-0828 or (863) 242-8656 (cell)
Email: shows@atlantic-coast-theatre.com
Website: www.atlantic-coast-theatre.com
Cost: $500-$650
Ages: preschool through grade 6
Length: 45 minutes
Certificate of Insurance: yes
Regions: all
Based in Orlando, A.C.T. For Youth is one of Florida’s finest touring artists and
has been awarded placement on the Florida State Touring Roster. Each year,
A.C.T. For Youth produces original plays and adaptations of classic children’s
literature that blend together entertainment and education. Shows are
adaptable to any performance venue and include scenery, costumes, props,
sound equipment and experienced professional actors. Since 1999, A.C.T. For
Youth has performed for more than 500,000 children in 18 states.
Contact: Matthew Sabatella
Address: P.O. Box 220743,
Hollywood, FL 33022
Phone: 305-753-1850
Email: info@balladofamerica.com
Website: www.balladofamerica.com
Cost: $250 (solo) - $700 (full band)
Ages: 4 years-Seniors
Length: 45-60 minutes
Certificate of Insurance: no
Regions: all
With vocals, guitar, banjo, and a wealth of traditional folk songs, Matthew
Sabatella brings the story of the United States vividly to life. Despite differences,
Americans are held together by the freedom to honestly pursue their goals.
The American Dream, a new program developed for the summer 2012 reading
theme Dream Big – Read, will have kids, parents and grandparents singing
along to folk songs that explore the notion of the American Dream through the
ages. See website for other programs.
The Battersby Duo
Contact: Tim Battersby
Address: 6199 Faber Drive,
Brooksville, FL 34602
Phone: (352) 799-3110 or (352) 870-3006 (cell)
Email: batduo@bellsouth.net
Website: www.battersbyduo.com;
www.kidsmusic.cc; or www.songsontheweb.net
Cost: $325
Ages: preschool through grade 5
Length: 45 minutes
Certificate of Insurance: yes
Regions: all
Imaginative and funny, this 45 minute library program takes care to build the
confidence of this learning-to-read age group. The American Library Association
calls this twice-Grammy-nominated duo “a banquet of silliness designed
to please the most refined of juvenile palates”. All aboard the reading train
coming to your area this summer.
Bits ‘N Pieces Puppet Theatre
Backintyme
Contact: Frank & Mary Lee Sweet
Address: 30 Medford Drive,
Palm Coast, FL 32137
Phone: (386) 446-4909 or (386) 439-9413 (cell)
Email: MLsweet@backintyme.com
Website: www.backintyme.com
Cost: $350-$600, plus travel
Ages: preschool through adult
Length: 35-90 minutes
Certificate of Insurance: no
Regions: all
Backintyme uses the art of storytelling and the emotion of music to illuminate
the history and folklore of Florida and the United States. The banjo and folk
percussion instruments playing 19th Century music transport audiences back
to another time when life was different. Available programs include stories and
music of the American Civil War, Holidays, Irish tales, Stephen Foster, Abraham
Lincoln, Mark Twain and 19th Century children’s stories and songs. Programs
can be customized upon request.
FLA Performers & Entertainers Directory - 2012
Contact: Jerry Bickel
Address: 12904 Tom Gallagher Road,
Dover, FL 33527
Phone: (813) 659-0659
Email: jerry@puppetworld.com
Website: www.puppetworld.com
Cost: $250, plus travel outside Hillsborough
County; $100 each additional show
Ages: preschool through grade 5
Length: 35 minute performance, followed by 25
minute puppet-making workshop
Certificate of Insurance: yes
Regions: all
Our marionette plays are based on famous children’s stories and capture your young
audience’s imagination. Programs available include Little Red, Rumpelstiltskin,
Robin Hood, Peter Rabbit, Jack and the Beanstalk, and The Elves and the
Shoemaker. In 2013 we premiere The Selfish Giant. In addition to performances,
puppet-making workshops are presented that combine arts & crafts with creative
dramatics and your choice of topic. Jerry Bickel and Holli Rubin have presented
programs across the U.S., Europe, Asia and South America.
3
Performers & Entertainers (Continued)
Bonnie Gray Productions
Carrie Sue Ayvar, Storyteller
Contact: Bonnie Gray
Address: 515 9th St. E, #208,
Bradenton, FL 34208
Phone: (941) 741-8131 or (727) 709-0199 (cell)
Email: graybj5722@aol.com
Website: www.bonniegray.com
Cost: $250-$2500 for cast of 1-10
Ages: all ages
Length: 45-60 minutes
Certificate of Insurance: no
Regions: Central/Southwest Florida; other areas
with travel fee
Various stage shows of all sizes: Tribute Shows for the USO, The Andrews Sisters,
Judy Garland, Marlene Dietrich, Patsy Cline, Great Ladies of Song, Great Ladies
of Pop.
BoomerBeats
Contact: Brian Slawson
Address: 235 Quail Drive,
Merritt Island, FL 32953
Phone: (321) 453-6342 or (321) 258-9142 (cell)
Email: brian@slawsongs.com or boomerbeats@
hotmail.com
Website: slawsongs.com & boomerbeats.com
Cost: $500
Ages: Pre-K through 7 years
Length: 30-40 minutes
Certificate of Insurance: no
Regions: Orange, Brevard, Indian River, Osceola,
Lake Counties
BoomerBeats is the brainchild of Brian Slawson. Juilliard-trained and Grammynominated as “Best New Classical Artist,” Slawson sparkles on a dazzling array
of percussion instruments. Boomer takes kids on an interactive adventure
exploring musical instruments, farm animals, deep sea creatures and singing &
dancing - with irresistible songs that parents love as much as kids - all crafted
to meet National Education Standards. Learning has never been this fun! “A toetapping melange of rhyme and rhythm!” - Florida Today.
Butch Harrison Florida Cracker Storyteller
Contact: Butch Harrison
Address: 12922 Garrison Road, Live Oak, FL 32060
Phone: (386) 362-4870
Email: butchharrison2nd@yahoo.com
Website: www.butchharrison.com
Cost: $350 plus travel and hotel
Ages: 10–100 years
Length: 1 hour with question and answer
Certificate of Insurance: no
Regions: all
By telling stories about the REAL Florida, Butch hopes to entice the audience
to read books about Florida history. DVDs with public performance rights are
available. Butch is approved by the Florida Humanities Council.
4
Contact: Carrie Sue Ayvar
Address: 1829 NE 179th St.,
North Miami Beach, FL 33162
Phone: (305) 945-4804 or (305) 778-7998 (cell)
Email: csayvar@gmail.com
Website: www.CarrieSueAyvar.com
Cost: $300–$500 plus travel, discounts for
multiple shows
Ages: all ages (children, teen, family and seniors)
Length: 30–60 minutes
Certificate of Insurance: no
Regions: all
Como se dice STORYTELLER en Espanol? How do you say storyteller in Spanish? Carrie Sue Ayvar, that’s how! Flowing effortlessly between Spanish and English,
Storyteller Carrie Sue Ayvar takes her listeners on a journey into the imagination
connecting people and cultures through her stories. Blending traditional, international
& personal tales, her programs are filled with fabulous fun. They range from interactive,
participatory folklore adventures to one-woman historical presentations. Chris Kastle
Contact: Chris Kastle
Address: 37205 Harbour Vista Circle,
St. Augustine, FL 32080
Phone: (773) 576-7245
Email: chriskastle@yahoo.com
Website: www.chriskastle.com
Cost: $200 single show; $150 two or more shows
Ages: children and teens; adult and family programs available.
Length: 45 minutes
Certificate of Insurance: no
Regions: all (travel fee may apply)
Join the adventure! Dig deep to locate archeological finds on land and under
the ocean. Travel the earth and the seven seas with singer, sailor, songwriter,
and storyteller, Chris Kastle. Look at a chart and learn about the tools to help
you uncover artifacts in the soil and down below the waves. Discover the true
meaning of treasure! Chris lives in St. Augustine; she continues as a touring
performer throughout the U.S., Canada, Europe and New Zealand.
Dan Christopher … and friends!
Contact: Dan Christopher
Address: P.O. Box 290781,
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33329
Phone: (954) 252-1804
Email: bookings@DanChristopher.com
Website: www.DanChristopher.com
Cost: $350-$450, plus travel
Ages: 5 years and up
Length: 45 minutes
Certificate of Insurance: no
Regions: all
Join Ventriloquist, Magician and Funny Guy Dan Christopher as he presents a
laugh-filled 45 minute program featuring a cast of wacky puppet pals combined
with some amazing magic tricks and lots of comedy that will delight everyone
in the audience. A professional variety arts performer for 20+ years, Dan is a
familiar face to many from his educational programs presented in schools and
his many appearances on children’s television shows. FLA Performers & Entertainers Directory - 2012
Performers & Entertainers (Continued)
Darrell House
Earthlings
Contact: Darrell House
Address: 2925 N.W. 126 Ave. ,1-226,
Plantation, FL 33323
Phone: (954) 257-3312
Email: Darrell@darrellhouse.com
Website: http://darrellhouse.com
Cost: $250, plus travel. Discounts for multiple
bookings
Ages: 5-12 years
Length: 45 minutes
Certificate of Insurance: no
Regions: all
Darrell House is a children’s author with two beautiful books including the
recently released (2011) King of Fish. He’s a Parents’ Choice Gold Award
winning poet, storyteller, singer-songwriter and recording artist. Most of all... he
is a performer. Librarians, media specialists, teachers, parents and kids across
the country love his humor and messages embracing literacy and family values.
Visit his Electronic Press Kit to experience his songs, poems, references, reviews
and a seven minute performance video at www.sonicbids.com/darrellhouse.
Dr. Annette Laing’s Imaginative Journeys
Contact: Annette Laing
Address: 308 Park Ave., Statesboro, GA 30458
Phone: (912) 536-2719
Email: aslaing@frontiernet.net Website: http://imaginativejourneys.org/
Cost: $300, plus mileage, hotel and meals. $50
discount per session for multiple sessions.
Ages: 8-12 years preferred, younger possible
Length: 60-90 minutes, depending on program
and your preference
Certificate of Insurance: yes
Regions: North & Central (no farther south than
St. Petersburg)
Historian and MG/YA author Dr. Annette Laing’s Imaginative Journeys take kids
on funny and cool time-travel adventures. They can experience life in England
in World War II, take a voyage from London to America in 1735 and more. With
humor, costume, multimedia, role play, artifacts and activities, Annette’s unique
interactive programs are unforgettable events. Annette’s “non-boring history for
kids” has been featured by the Associated Press. Visit her in the exhibit hall to
learn more.
Dr. Tom’s Semi-Silent Theatre
Contact: Tom Pierce
Address: P.O. Box 654, Bethlehem, GA 30620
Phone: (770) 867-2696 or (678) 462-1009 (cell)
Email: tommy.i.pierce@gmail.com
Website: www.drtomisi.com
Cost: $350-$450. Best prices for block bookings.
Ages: all ages
Length: 45-50 minutes
Certificate of Insurance: yes
Regions: Panhandle and North Florida
Using mime, comedy, magic, and silent stories, Tom gets kids excited about
reading. Fun for all ages. Special performance and workshop in mime, magic
and circus skills for teens. Teens will learn all of this and more. Testimonial:
“The kids were literally rolling in the aisle. His combination of mime, balloons,
magic and juggling was light-heated and funny for kids of every age.” Tifton Co.
Library, Tifton, GA
FLA Performers & Entertainers Directory - 2012
Contact: K.C. Jones
Address: 2045 East Bay Drive, Apt. 602,
Largo, FL 33771
Phone: (727) 729-7778 or (727) 252-4869 (cell)
Email: earthlings@tampabay.rr.com
Website: http://earthlingsmusic.net/FLYP_CSLP.
htm
Cost: $200 locally, $250-$350 for further areas.
Discounted for multiples
Ages: 6-12 years, with preschool version available
Length: 45 minutes or as requested by library
Certificate of Insurance: yes
Regions: West Central, Central, Southwest, East,
Southeast & North FL
Earthlings is a musical duo who have performed in over 160 Florida library
programs. Earthlings always have something special in their programs like
unique instruments, magic, props and costumes. Every show has lots of
audience participation. For 2012 Earthlings have written a new program with
both original and well known songs fitting the CSLP theme. Songs include “The
Lion Sleeps Tonight”, “I’m a Night Owl”, “Fire Fly”, “Milky Way”, “I’ve Got The
Whole World At My Library” “Solstice Song” and more.
Eric Herman and the Invisible Band
Contact: Eric and Roseann Endres
Address: 3005 Rose St.,
West Richland, WA 99353
Phone: (509) 460-7950 or (509) 942-8363 (cell)
Email: eric@erichermanmusic.com
Website: www.erichermanmusic.com
Cost: $350 base price with sliding scale for
multiple bookings
Ages: 2-10 years and families
Length: 45 minutes
Certificate of Insurance: yes
Regions: All regions periodically throughout the
year
Eric Herman’s concerts for kids and families are bursting with comedy, creativity,
audience participation and outrageously entertaining songs. A national favorite,
Eric has become well-known for his music videos which have over 40 million
views on YouTube. Eric’s songs and videos have also been featured on The
Today Show, Fox & Friends, XM Radio, PBS Kids and in the Warner Bros. film Life
As We Know It. Eric is available to make trips to Florida periodically throughout
the year.
Fandagumbo Celebration! Sing Along Concert
with SongSister Austin
Contact: Julie Austin
Address: 155 Clubview Drive, Safety Harbor, FL 34695
Phone: (734) 604-0866
Email: Julie@JulieAustin.com
Website: www. JulieAustin.com
Cost: $200-$450, plus travel
Ages: 2-10 years
Length: 45-55 minutes
Certificate of Insurance: no
Regions: all regions
This lively and interactive concert features Julie Austin who sings, plays guitar,
ukulele, auto harp and jawharp as her audience sings, moves, does sign
language and actively participates in musical storytelling. Guaranteed to have
your hands clapping, your feet tapping and your fingers snapping!
5
Performers & Entertainers (Continued)
Feeling Good and Singing Good
Contact: Allan Lieberman
Address: P.O. Box 842,
Palm Beach, FL 33480
Phone: (847) 372-9981
Email: allan_lieberman@yahoo.com
Website: www.allan-lieberman.com
Cost: $250-350, with multiple library discount
Ages: 3-9 years
Length: 45-55 minutes
Certificate of Insurance: yes
Regions: South Florida through Jacksonville
Feeling Good and Singing Good is a 45 minute interactive, invigorating,
energetic, enthusiastic, educational, fun-filled fabulous songfest. Featured
songs include original works and popular traditional songs. Singing along is
encouraged and movement is mandatory. Other programs include Treat the
Earth Right and Cumonahwannago.
Contact: John Duval
Address: 424 E. Central Blvd., #310,
Orlando, FL 32801
Phone: (407) 792-5661
Email: g2uorlando@gmail.com
Website: www.games2u.com
Cost: $199 and up
Ages: 5 years and older
Length: 60 minutes or more
Certificate of Insurance: yes
Regions: Central Florida, Daytona, Ocala,
Gainesville
Games2U has quickly become one of the hottest attractions at events of all
kinds! With our video game theater, laser tag, giant hamster balls, kid-driveable
“U:bot” robot, and foam parties, Games2U has all the ingredients to make your
party or event a truly unique and memorable experience.
Geddy the Gecko’s Dream Big Reading Show
Finn & Fiona
Contact: Liz Briggs
Address: 50989 U.S. Highway 27, Lot 24,
Davenport, FL 33897
Phone: (714) 270-5541
Email: FinnandFionaMail@gmail.com
Website: www.FinnandFiona.com
Cost: $360
Ages: preschool, elementary and families
Length: 45 minutes, can be customized upon
request
Certificate of Insurance: yes
Regions: all regions
Stories, songs and dance from the Celtic Nations! Finn & Fiona will present
familiar and obscure fairy tales from Scotland & Ireland, demonstrate Scottish
dance, and even play the bagpipe! Audience volunteers, silly hats, this show
has it all. Performers will also stick around after the show for one-on-one
interactions. They are popular for photo ops (a fairy and a Scotsman in full
regalia) and Fiona even hands out fairy trinkets. A popular duo; you’ll want
them back every year!
The Franzini Family Science Circus
Contact: Pat Fenda
Address: P.O. Box 18975, Tampa, FL 33679
Phone: (813) 872-0300 ext. 4 or
(813) 732-1654 (cell)
Email: bigboss@strictlyentertainment.net
Website: www.strictlyentertainment.net
Cost: $500
Ages: 3-13 years
Length: 1 hour
Certificate of Insurance: yes
Regions: Hillsborough and Pinellas counties
(others with travel fee)
Professor and Lippo Franzini take the audience on an action-packed
demonstration of gravity, inertia, circular motion, air pressure, balance and
astronomy. All these scientific elements are dynamically demonstrated through
clowning, juggling, magic and other circus skills. The Fabulous Franzini have
performed throughout the world! Complex concepts in science are explained
through visual representations in an effective way to help children understand
and remember.
6
Games2U Orlando
Contact: John Mallory
Address: 412 S.E. 4 Terrace, Dania, FL 33004
Phone: (954) 924-0218
Email: geddythegecko@juno.com
Website: www.geddythegecko.com/schoolsandparks
Cost: $250-$500, based on total number of
shows in your extended area
Ages: 2-13 years and families: teen shows upon
request
Length: 45 minutes
Certificate of Insurance: yes
Regions: all
John Mallory always provides 2 choices for summer reading themed shows: one
show features Geddy the Gecko and Super Geddy, the second show features
Holy Cow, Mr. Pig and Bully. Geddy the Gecko’s Dream Big Reading Show
features high energy audience participation with hilarious skits, international
music and all-new dances. Geddy, a gecko lizard mascot from Costa Rica, is
played by John Mallory, a nationally ranked mascot actor from Fort Lauderdale.
John has performed in 43 states fulltime since 1995 and four times with Regis
Philbin and Simon Cowell on primetime TV. A second character, Super Geddy,
breakdances as the grand finale.
Godwin’s Gatorland Inc.
Contact: Chris Sears
Address: 14501 S. Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando, FL 32837
Phone: 585-330-1792 (cell)
Email: chrissears@gatorland.com
Website: www.gatorland.com
Cost: $250
Ages: 3 years and up
Length: 45 minutes
Certificate Of Insurance: yes
Regions: all regions
Chris Sears, the Off-Property Show Coordinator for Gatorland, brings along 6
different animals. His usual menagerie consists of a tarantula, a scorpion, a
lizard, a baby alligator, a 3 or 4 foot alligator and a big snake such as a boa
constrictor or a python. At the end of the program, there is time for taking
photos and touching the baby alligator (hand gel provided afterward). When
Chris travels to schools and libraries more than 50 miles from Orlando (which
he does frequently) there is an additional 40 cents a mile travel fee.
FLA Performers & Entertainers Directory - 2012
Performers & Entertainers (Continued)
Jacki Manna’s Dare to Dream Show
Contact: Jacki Manna, Ventriloquist and
Motivational Speaker
Address: 3036 Moore Drive, Oviedo, FL 32765
Phone: (407) 925-3527
Email: jacki@jackimanna.com
Website: www.JackiManna.com
Cost: $295-$495
Ages: 2-102 years
Length: 45-60 minutes
Certificate of Insurance: yes
Regions: all
Jacki Manna is revolutionizing children’s entertainment with her motivational
speaking and innovative library programs that are inspiring the youth of
America to pursue their biggest dreams. She is a reading coach, Florida Literacy
Week coordinator, National French week advisor, Bilingual reading buddy liason,
Young Authors group leader, and a real tour de force. Jacki and her dream team
declare, “The sky is not the limit. Anything is possible.” Appearing statewide and
nationwide.
Jane Rosenbohm Guitar Extraordinaire
Contact: Jane Rosenbohm
Address: 1174 Harbor Ridge Drive,
Kissimmee, FL 34759
Phone: (804) 300-6004 (cell) Email: greygoose625@gmail.com
Website: www.janeguitar.com
Cost: $200, plus travel expenses
Ages: all
Length: One or two hour programs
Certificate of Insurance: yes
Regions: all
Ms. Rosenbohm’s concerts are for a general audience. The concerts contain
classical, Spanish and contemporary selections with commentary on the history
of the guitar and anecdotes about her life as a guitarist. The Arts-in-Education
programs are interactive and promote music appreciation for students of all
ages.
Karen Climer’s Crazy Balloon Show
Contact: Karen Climer
Address: 305 East Concord St.,
Orlando, FL 32801
Phone: (407) 493-3974
Email: Karen@KarenClimer.com
Website: www.KarenClimer.com
Cost: $245, plus travel with multiple show discounts available
Ages: 3 years and up
Length: 45 minutes
Certificate of Insurance: yes
Regions: all regions
Dream big … with Karen Climer’s Crazy Balloon Show featuring magic, comedy,
storytelling, and, of course, balloons. A professionally trained performer and
teacher, Karen uses balloons to promote reading, the library and big dreams. Karen Climer’s Crazy Balloon Show culminates with Karen climbing inside the
biggest – and I mean biggest- balloon you’ve ever seen. Colorful, interactive and
fun for children and grownups. Completely self-contained show.
FLA Performers & Entertainers Directory - 2012
Katie Adams’ Make Believe Theater, Puppetry
& Storytelling
Contact: Katie Adams
Address: 206 S. Ward St., Tampa, FL 33609
Phone: (813) 282-4993 or (813) 546-3364 (cell)
Email:katesshow@aol.com
Website: katieadamstheater.com
Cost: $250-$550, depending on travel; group
rates available
Ages: preschool - grade 5
Length: 45 minutes
Certificate of Insurance: yes
Regions: all
Puppeteer and storyteller Katie Adams unfolds a theater in your library to share
a love of children’s literature with interactive, multimedia shows. Stories come
to life with spellbinding storytelling, colorful puppets and scenery, music and
audience participation.
Kaye Byrnes Storytelling
Contact: Kaye Byrnes
Address: 182 Coastal Oak Circle, Ponte Vedra
Beach, FL 32082
Phone: (904) 285-1561 or (904) 315-2079 (cell)
Email: kaye@kayebyrnes.com
Website: www.kayebyrnes.com
Cost: Base fee $250 for one hour program, plus
travel (Fees happily negotiated based on timing
and distance. System super-saver discounts
available for multiple locations.)
Ages: preschool - adults
Length: varies (see website)
Certificate of Insurance: no
Regions: all
Spoken word—oral tradition storytelling with programs for all ages, preschool
children through senior citizens. Repertoire includes folklore, historical and
personal stories that are engaging, entertaining and insightful. Programs are
generally customized to meet your objective for special events or targeted
audiences. 16 years stage experience in a wide variety of venues. Considerable
experience with FLYP.
Magic and Mayhem
Contact: James Songster
Address: 527 Wild Forrest Drive,
Davenport, FL 33837
Phone: (407) 222-4412
Email: jjtjmagic@aol.com
Website: www.MagicandMayhemShow.com
Cost: $250, plus travel; discounts for multiple bookings
Ages: 3- 10 years
Length: 40-45 minutes
Certificate of Insurance: yes
Regions: All
Magic And Mayhem should be on your program schedule! We have been
performing custom-themed library programs for over 10 years. Have developed
and presented exciting, imaginative, and informative programs for a wide range
of youth program sponsors including Cirque Du Mond, Orlando Shakespeare
Theatre, and Disney Youth Programs. We are based in Central Florida but can
be available for engagements throughout the state with a negotiable additional
fee for travel beyond a 120 mile radius from Orlando. Our programs include
magic, costumes, scenery, props, and LOTS of audience participation. The math
is simple: Magic + Mayhem = Fun!
7
Performers & Entertainers (Continued)
Merlina the Magical Storyteller
Ninth Period Shows
Contact: Maria Ibanez
Address: 12791 S.W. 216 Terrace,
Miami, FL 33170-2605
Phone: (305) 258-3414 or (786) 258-8762 (cell)
Email: merlina17@aol.com or merlina@merlina.com
Website: www.merlina.com
Cost: $200 (average), varies
Ages: variety of age groups
Length: 40 – 45 minutes
Certificate of Insurance: yes
Regions: all regions
A magical storytelling show which will take the audience on a tour through time
and space. Merlina, one of the nations few Hispanic magicians will wow the
audience in two languages. Merlina is a recipient of numerous entertainment
awards including the coveted Merlin, In the Company of Women, I.B.M. Order of
Merlin. Professional memberships include being a Past International President
of the Society of American Magicians, International Brotherhood of Magicians,
A.I.M.C. of the prestigious Magic Circle of London, and the Academy of Magical
Arts Magic Castle of Hollywood.
Mr. Bob the Magician
Contact: Joey Evans
Address: 13070 Brookshire Lake Blvd.,
Fort Myers, FL 33966
Phone: (239) 878-7531
Email: booking@itsyourlibrary.com
Website: www.itsyourlibrary.com
Cost: $225, plus travel
Ages: elementary –middle school
Length: 45 minutes – 1 hour
Certificate of Insurance: yes
Regions: all
Joey and Alexandra of Ninth Period Shows perform hundreds of shows every
year. Their mixture of comedy, music, magic, puppets and live animals has
taken them everywhere – cruise lines, children’s conventions, libraries and
schools across American and as far away as Australia. Their show always
presents a positive message sewn tightly into a performance that will not soon
be forgotten. Their audiences have ranged from families and children to the
Points of Light Dinner for educators to two U.S. Presidents.
Orisirisi African Folklore
Contact: Don Harrell
Address: 14001 Beargrass Court,
Winter Garden, FL 34787
Phone: (407) 697-1336
Email: orisirisi@aol.com
Website: www.orisirisi.com
Cost: $350, plus travel
Ages: preschool – adult
Length: 45 minutes
Certificate of Insurance: yes
Regions: all
Contact: Bob Brant
Address: 21439 Royal Troon Drive,
Leesburg, FL 34748
Phone: (863) 255-6050 (cell)
Email: magician@mrbobsmagicshow.com
Website: www.mrbobsmagicshow.com
Cost: $250, plus travel with multiple show discount
Ages: 3 years and up
Length: 45 minutes
Certificate of Insurance: yes
Regions: all
Mr. Bob’s Magic Show contains plenty of comedy magic, puppets, music and
lots of audience participation. The shows are suitable for ages 3 and up are
very family friendly. Just For Fun or themed shows are available. Bob knows
that 3-4 year olds have different likes and dislikes than older children, and plans
his shows accordingly.
Mr. Richard, Children’s Singer and Songwriter
(or Mr. Richard and the Pound Hounds, if
booking trio)
Contact: Richard Peeples
Address: 905 Essex Pl, Orlando, FL 32806
Phone: (321) 332-4271
Email: Richard@mrrichard.net
Website: www.mrrichard.net
Cost: $300, plus travel. Discounts for multiple bookings.
Ages: Pre-K to grade 5
Length: 45 minutes
Certificate of Insurance: no
Regions: any and all
Summer (or anytime) programming that leaves ‘em singing! Mr. Richard’s
Musical Storytime shares the joy of music with string instruments, audience
participation and whimsical songs about girl pilots, the garbage man, and the
“5-Second Rule”. Listen to samples from his four albums on iTunes. 3-piece
(guitar, bass, drums) trio available for full-on rocking! Have guitar, will travel
statewide.
8
Moonlight Stories: a recreation of the African Storytelling tradition consisting
of a montage of stories complimented with drumming, dance, song and the
obligatory African tradition of audience participation. Drum Sermon: a fun-filled
celebration of music and its origins, inclusive of folktales, legends and myths
from the far corners of Africa with drumming, dance, song and a healthy dose
of audience participation.
Out of My Hands
Contact: Gerard Tricarico
Address: 1147 S.E. 29th St., Cape Coral, FL 33904
Phone: (239) 560-1671 or (386) 439-9413 (cell)
Email: outofmyhands2@aol.com
Website: www.outofmyhands2.com
Cost: $190-$265, depending on travel; workshops are $40, with the booking of a show
Ages: Preschool through middle school
Length: 50-60 minutes for show; 30-45 minutes
for workshops
Certificate of Insurance: yes
Regions: all
Out of My Hands is a self-contained juggling, magic and light & laser effects
show. The show features choreographed juggling, magical illusions and is
interactive. Light effects include laser, black light and strobe light (optional). I
juggle lighted balls, rings and clubs. Positive messages are incorporated into
the act along with some comedy and lots of music. I also offer scarf juggling
workshops at a nominal fee with the booking of a show.
FLA Performers & Entertainers Directory - 2012
Performers & Entertainers (Continued)
The Pied Piper and other Fantastic Tales
Razzmatazz Entertainment
Contact: Lowell J. Tauszik
Address: P.O. Box 1208, Oldsmar, FL 34677
Phone: (813) 814-1994
Email: info@RazzEnt.com
Website: www.RazzEnt.com
Cost: prices vary according to location
Ages: 3 years and up – all ages
Length: 40 or 60 minutes
Certificate of Insurance: yes
Regions: all regions
Contact: Donna Wissinger
Address: 2199 Astor St., #502, Orange Park, FL 32073
Phone: (407) 492-8876 (cell) Email: topformdrw@aol.com
Website: www.donnawissinger.com
Cost: $250, plus travel
Ages: 3 years and up
Length: 30-45 minutes
Certificate of Insurance: no
Regions: all
Renowned storyteller and flutist Donna Wissinger partners with a colorful and
lively story bag to enthrall young children and readers. Children and parents
laugh and learn as the treasures in the story bag help Donna teach the musical
stories of The Pied Piper, William Tell, Pan and Johnny Appleseed. Young
students’ imaginations soar as they understand a magical creature who speaks
only in music. Preschoolers’ natural curiosity is rewarded as the sounds of flutes,
penny whistles, fifes and percussion are full of adventures in movement and
song.
Presidents and their First Ladies, dramatically
speaking
Contact: William Wills
Address: 1853 Linden Road,
Winter Park, FL 32792
Phone: (443) 366-3429
Email: mail@presladies.com
Website: www.presladies.com
Cost: $350, plus travel outside 50 miles of Orlando
Ages: adult
Length: 1 hour
Certificate of Insurance: no
Regions: all
We have programs on the lives of 33 of our nation’s presidents and their wives. We appear in costume and using our acting abilities take on their personalities
and tell their life stories. In this way, they become more than just names in a
history book!
Quite a Catch
Contact: Ron Anglin
Address: 2982 Old Lifsey Springs Road,
Molena, GA 30258
Cell: (770) 584-0571
Email: quiteacatch@hughes.net
Website: www.quiteacatch.net
Cost: $300 for single show; $500 for double;
mileage charged for travel south of Orlando
Ages: all ages
Length: 45 minutes
Certificate of Insurance: yes
Regions: all
Comic and educational juggler who has performed in over 4700 shows in 27
states. He also clowns in Atlanta and Miami children’s hospitals for Big Apple
Circus Clown Care. Hi s show always emphasizes the importance of reading
and fits the summer theme
FLA Performers & Entertainers Directory - 2012
In “Dream Big – Read” Lowell Tauszik of Razzmatazz Entertainment will use
ventriloquism and magic to show how the library can help you to dream big. Lowell and his friend Joey (ventriloquist figure) will teach about scientists,
discoverers, artists, fictional characters, and magicians (of course!) and how you
can learn about them all through books from the library. And he’ll tell you how
your library card can be the ticket to achieving your dreams!
Rick Huddle
Contact: Rick Huddle
Address: 7235 N. Fenwick Ave.,
Portland, OR 97217
Phone: (503) 720-0397
Email: rickhuddle@gmail.com
Website: www.rickhuddle.com
Cost: $300
Ages: 3-12 years
Length: 45 minutes
Certificate of Insurance: yes
Regions: all
Combining interactive games, storytelling and music, Rick Huddle puts on
variety shows that go beyond mere entertainment. Parents and children will
laugh, sing and perform their way to a deeper understanding of each other. He’s a captivating storyteller, a gifted dancer and can play the guitar, dulcimer,
6-string ukulele and nose flute (but usually not at the same time). He is available
for block booking and tours or when visiting family in Orlando, Naples and Boca
Raton.
Seminole County Music Together
Contact: Marla Stevenson
Address: 2214 Lancewood Court,
Orlando, FL 32817
Phone: (407) 844-4414
Email: seminolemusictogether@gmail.com
Website: www.seminolemusictogether.com
Cost: $60
Ages: birth–5 years
Length: 45 minutes
Certificate of Insurance: yes
Regions: Seminole County & Orange County
An internationally recognized early childhood music program first offered to
the public in 1987, Music Together pioneered the concept of a research-based,
developmentally appropriate music curriculum that strongly emphasizes adult
participation. All children can achieve basic music competence provided
their early environment supports such learning and emphasizes actual music
experiences rather than concepts. We are a community of families sharing
songs, instrument play, rhythm chants and movement activities in a relaxed,
playful, non-performance-oriented setting.
9
Performers & Entertainers (Continued)
Sherry Norfolk, Storyteller
Contact: Sherry Norfolk
Address: 888 Vera St., Atlanta, GA 30316
Phone: (404) 627-7012, or (404) 401-2737 (cell)
Email: shnorfolk@aol.com
Website: www. SherryNorfolk.com
Cost: $200, plus travel and lodging, negotiates
block bookings
Ages: Preschool, elementary, middle school and
high school (adapted to each audience)
Length: 45 minutes
Certificate of Insurance: yes
Regions: all regions
1) Dream On: fun-filled interactive stories about making your dreams come true. Tailored for preschool, elementary and family audiences. 2) Dark Shadows:
haunting tales of vampires, witches and ghosts for YA audiences.
Songs & Stories with Mrs. Claus
Contact: Pat Fenda
Address: P.O. Box 18975, Tampa, FL 33679
Phone: (813) 872-0300 ext. 4 or (813) 732-1654 (cell)
Email: bigboss@strictlyentertainment.net
Website: www.strictlyentertainment.net
Cost: $200
Ages: 3-10 years
Length: 45 minutes
Certificate of Insurance: yes
Regions: Hillsborough and Pinellas counties
(others with travel fee)
Mrs. Claus tells the heart-warming story “Children’s Small Town Christmas” of
how children find the true meaning of Christmas after Santa does not show in
rhyme and mime. Add “Twas the Night” with SpongeBob down the chimney,
“12 Days of Christmas” and other favorite songs with movement and active
participation from all. Mrs. Claus is portrayed by the accomplished mime and
entertainer, Pat Fenda. Mrs. Claus was well received at Bloomingdale Library
with kids and parents both enjoying her storytelling and singing.
Stage Dreams - Life as an Entertainer
Contact: Pat Fenda
Address: P.O. Box 18975, Tampa, FL 33679
Phone: (813) 872-0300 ext. 4 or (813) 732-1654 (cell)
Email: bigboss@strictlyentertainment.net
Website: www.strictlyentertainment.net
Cost: $250
Ages: 5-12 years
Length: 35-45 minutes
Certificate of Insurance: yes
Regions: Hillsborough and Pinellas counties
(others with travel fee)
Lizi Franzini shares her skills and experiences as an entertainer who traveled the
world for over 5 years and has been entertaining for over 20. Lizi, also known
as “Mimi the Mime”, begins with the mime classic “trapped in a box”. She
performs the Cycle of Life and teaches the difference between round and flat
objects. Moving on to juggling and plate spinning, she captivates imaginations. Finally she weaves in the story of her journey to stages across the world!
10
Stand-Up Librarian Meredith Myers
Contact: Meredith Myers
Address: P.O. Box 55343, St. Petersburg, FL 33732
Phone: (323) 419-3936
Email: StandUpLibrarianMM@gmail.com
Website: www.StandUpLibrarian.com
Cost: $250 and up, depending on length of show,
program and travel
Ages: all
Length: 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on
show, program
Certificate of Insurance: no
Regions: all
“So a comedian walks into a library and decides to work there …” Join StandUp Librarian Meredith Myers for an all ages literary comedy show … at the
library! No cover charge or 2-drink minimum required. A cross between Pippi
Longstocking and Sandra Bernhard, Meredith entertains while educating about
the importance of libraries as she addresses everything from the Dewey Decimal
System to Harry Potter. Bring a love of reading and get ready to laugh. For more
information on programs, which vary from performances to comedy classes for
teens, visit www.StandUpLibrarian.com
The Storytelling Sims: Wayne & Jane Sims
Contact: Jane Sims
Address: 560 Florida Club Blvd., Apt. 206, St.
Augustine, FL 32084
Phone: (904) 824-8965 or (904) 823-7969 (cell)
Email: storybuff@aol.com
Website: http://storynet.org/teller/directory.php?ID=486
or http://www.storyteller.net/tellers/sims
Cost: $400
Ages: mature youth, adults and seniors
Length: 30 minutes - 3 hours
Certificate of Insurance: no
Regions: all
Humorists, Historians & Tandem Tellers of Legend, Lore, Literature &
Life. Special programs include: “All’s Fair in Love & War” – the courtship of
Confederate General Edmund Kirby-Smith and his bride, sassy Cassie Selden;
“Mark My Word” – excerpts from American treasure Mark Twain; “Tributes,
Tales & Turnip Greens – traditional tales & humor. Coming in 2012: World
War II stories researched under auspices of the Florida Humanities Council, St.
Augustine Historical Society & Tale Tellers of St. Augustine.
Tampa Taiko Japanese Drumming Cultural
Outreach Program
Contact: Ron Collins
Address: 1928 Whitney Way,
Clearwater, FL 33760
Phone: (727) 531-7999 or (804) 852-6200 (cell)
Email: ron@tampataiko.com
Website: http://tampataiko.com
Cost: $275-$400
Ages: 4 years and up
Length: 45-75 minutes
Certificate of Insurance: yes
Regions: all
Tampa Taiko is available to visit your school or library to provide a fun-filled
interactive program that covers the history of taiko, the music of Japan, modern
drumming performance and drum making using discarded barrels that have been
recycled into taiko drums. To inquire about booking Tampa Taiko and to review our
teachers’ guide, call 727-531-7999 or email Ron@TampaTaiko.com
FLA Performers & Entertainers Directory - 2012
Performers & Entertainers (Continued)
Unbound Booking
Contact: Jessica Brawner
Address: P.O. Box 251, Jamestown, CO 80455
Phone: (888) 526-6587 or (512) 584-7794 (cell)
Email: Jessica@unboundbooking.com
Website: www.unboundbooking.com
Cost: $300-$600 per hour range
Ages: children, teens, adults, seniors
Length: 1 hour
Certificate of Insurance: no
Regions: all
Unbound Booking is an entertainment agency specializing in top-quality
educational and cultural enrichment programming specifically for libraries,
schools and other community venues. We work with performers nationwide
and have a number of excellent groups based in the Florida area. In addition,
we have groups from all over the country that tour through Florida on a regular
basis. Many of our groups also offer workshops on a variety of topics and for a
variety of ages – children, teens, adults and seniors.
showcase subcommittee
Patricia Carr, Library Assistant
Natalie Houston, Youth Outreach Coordinator
Alachua County Library District
Orange County Library System
Cheryl Fishman, Children’s Librarian
Julia Hutchins, Young Adult Librarian
Boynton Beach City Library
Leesburg Public Library
Sharon Fiske, Young Adult Coordinator
Ron Moore, Branch Manager
Flagler County Public Library
Linda Goff, Youth Services Coordinator
Lake County Library Services
Paisley County Library
Theresa Owen, Children’s Librarian
Flagler County Public Library
A big thanks to the Lake County Board of County Commissioners’ Information Outreach staff for designing
the 2012 directory; and to Faye Roberts, Executive Director of FLA, for the guidance and assistance she
gave our subcommittee.
FLA Performers & Entertainers Directory - 2012
11
Florida Library Association
2012 Annual Conference
April 18 - 20, 2012
V1/03-2012