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Children's & Youth Services | Performer's Database
Performer's Database
This performer listing was created by the South Dakota State Library as a service to public libraries and other organizations that want to hire quality performers for their children's programs. Inclusion in this listing does not constitute an endorsement or promotion of any individual or group listed. Not all performers work well under all circumstances and with every age group. The South Dakota State Library strongly advises all libraries and organizations to carefully check references before hiring anyone.
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Performers are also sorted by Category
Adam Miller — Folksinger, Storyteller, and Autoharp Virtuoso 
Program Description: Adam Miller’s award-winning, multi-cultural, sing-along “Singing Through History” library programs help youngsters develop active listening skills — emphasizing the importance of history as a story well told — and foster a lifelong love of literature, reading, and listening to stories.
Contact: Adam Miller
P.O. Box 951, Drain, Oregon 97435
650-804-2049; autoharper@earthlink.net 
Further Details: $350 per program, Public Library; Statewide/Nationwide Travel Range; For All Ages
Category: Historical and Native American, Music, Storytelling, Workshops
Adventures with Grandpa
Program Description: Mr. Nelsen's repertoire includes original children's stories, stories from the prairie and first person accounts of growing up in the “Thirties.”
Contact: George Nelsen
2212 S. Crestwood Road, Sioux Falls, SD 57105
605-336-8624; nelseng@qwest.net
Further Details: Performace Cost $75/ hour; Mileage Reimbursement; 75 mile travel range from Sioux Falls; For Ages 4-16
Category: Historical and Native American, Storytelling
Anthony Clark, The Singing Storyteller
Program Description: The Singing Storyteller, Anthony Clark, combines classic teaching tales with lively original songs and kid-friendly comedy to create fun, unique programs for schools, libraries and festivals.
Contact: 207 Apple Tree Court, Columbia, MO 65203; 573-449-1822; singingstoryteller@yahoo.com
Further Details: $575 for first performance, $225 each additional performance at same event/trip; Statewide Travel; For Preschoolers to School-age children.
Category: Comedy, Music
Barbara Kellogg
Program Description: Ms. Kellogg tells a variety of stories with themes relating to the Ozarks, immigrants, Native Americans, healing and sacred stories. The use of hand puppets, surprise endings and “solve the mystery” are included in some programs.
Contact: Uplifting Stories
66 Y Street, Lake Lotawana, MO 64086
816-578-4825; kellraybarb@att.net
Further Details: $95 performance, $50 additional performances in same school district or library system the same day; Will book tours; Lodging and mileage/air fare and meals; Travel Range is Statewide, season and weather pending; For All Ages
Category: Historical and Native American, Puppetry and Ventriloquism, Storytelling
Butterfly Puppet Theatre
Program Description: Butterfly is “people and puppet” musical entertainment. Leonard Running writes songs and stories to fit with Sue Hey's puppet and stage designs.
Contact: Leonard Running
312 North 40th Street, Rapid City, SD 57702
605-348-5345; butterfly@rushmore.com
Further Details: $150 for “The Buffalo Show”, $250 for the show and a workshop; Statewide Travel; For All Ages
Category: Music, Puppetry and Ventriloquism, Storytelling, Theater
Clowndimonium Fun Family Entertainment
Program Description: Clowndimonium magicians and clowns are available to entertain with magic, comedy and juggling demonstrations.
Contact: Al “Sparky” Jastram
518 16th St. N., Moorhead, Minnesota 56560
218-287-5906; sparky@clowndimonium.com
Further Details: Cost varies in price based on travel and type of performance; Willing to travel through most of South Dakota; For All Ages
Category: Clowns, Comedy, Juggling, Magic
Coach and Ronny
Program Description: Coach is a retired school teacher and Ronny is his number one ventriloquist figure. They provide a variety of programs on Reading, Character Traits and Drug Awareness.
Contact: Davis Aldridge
8291 Redcedar Pl., Port St. Lucie, FL 34952
772-879-1964, 772-201-2696;
kcgator@coachandronny.com
Further Details: $350 for single presentations, Will do co-op bookings, or book tours; Travel Expenses from Florida; Statewide Travel; For All Ages
Category: Puppetry and Ventriloquism, Storytelling
Colleen Sutherland
Program Description: Ms. Sutherland provides a lively 45-60 minute performance with music and storytelling. A writer of children's stories, magazine and newspaper articles, Ms. Sutherland shares her love of books and music.
Contact: Mathom House
539 Lincoln St., Seymour, WI 54165
920-833-7506
Further Details: $150 for first performance, $50 for each succeeding performance on the same day in the same library system; Negotiable for travel and housing; Statewide Travel (prefers to schedule a tour); For All Ages
Category: Music, Storytelling
Dallas Chief Eagle
Program Description: Hoop Dance performance by Dallas Chief Eagle and children. Includes a hands-on people's hoop dance, children's game and storytelling. Audience participants get to hoop dance too.
Contact: HC 1 Box 39, Martin, SD 57551-9503
605-685-1135 or 605-685-4701;
dchiefe@gwtc.net
Further Details: $600/ performance (Arts Council matching funds may be available); $100/ Additional Workshop or Dancers; Statewide Travel; For All Ages
Category: Dance, Historical and Native American, Storytelling, Workshops
David Lloyd
Program Description: Designs and performs programs for libraries using the current theme of the year. Performs magic, puppetry, ventriloquism, and storytelling in each 45 minute program.
Contact: Dave Tenneboe
Sioux Falls, SD
MagicDLT@sio.midco.net
Further Details: $150 per program; Mileage from Sioux Falls
Category: Magic, Puppetry and Ventriloquism, Storytelling
Dennis Warner
Program Description: An energetic blend of music and humor in a special concert just for kids (age 4-12) and others who like to have fun! Dennis's show is fast-paced, high energy and full of audience participation.
Contact: Tammy Anhalt
P.O. Box 365, Clearwater, MN 55320
800-870-1770; info@warnersongs.com
Further Details: Special library/school rate of just $250 if multiple library/school bookings in the area. This is a flat rate with no additional charges for mileage; Statewide/ Nationwide Travel; Requirements include adequate space for audience, an armless chair and a glass of water; For classes Preschool through 5th Grade
Category: Music
Diana Borgum
Program Description: Diana is an old fashioned troubadour who tells stories based on children's literature. She also has fun puppets and songs.
Contact: 4704 West 13th Place, Sioux Falls, SD 57106
605-339-2902; borgudia@SF.K12.SD.US
Further Details: $100/ 45-60 min presentation; Mileage Reimbursement; Statewide Travel; For All Ages
Category: Music, Puppetry and Ventriloquism, Storytelling
Discovery Mime Theater
Program Description: Discovery Mime Theatre's performances and workshops create fantastical worlds that tickle the funny bone and delight the imagination. Brian Begley and Mary Inman's original pantomime vignettes are filled with magical illusions, juggling, puppetry and dance.
Contact: Brian Begley and Mary Inman
P.O. Box 566, Vermillion, SD 57069
605-624-6718; mbegley@usd.edu
Further Details: Performances vary in price from $550-$750 (Arts Council matching funds may be available); Statewide Travel; For All Ages
Category: Dance, Juggling, Magic, Puppetry and Ventriloquism, Theater
Do Re Let's Play
Program Description: Get ready to dance, sing and clap your hands to “Do Re Let's Play”. Do Re Let's Play mixes the sounds of keyboard, acoustic guitar, electric bass and three part vocals and even some saxophone to create a sound that will cause and the young at heart to get up and grove.
Contact: 7200 W. Harvard Dr. Sioux Falls S.D. 57106
(605) 336-2465; doreletsplay@live.com
Further Details: $200-$1,000; Travel Range is Within three hours of Sioux Falls; For ages 0-10 years
Category: Music, Storytelling
Dragons Are Too Seldom Puppet Productions
Program Description: Shows include: “Alpha Saves the Beticals”, “A Dragon Mystery”, “The Last Dragon”, “Great Water Rescue”, “The Tall Tale of Matty Bow”, “The Quest for the Junkyard Dragon”
Contact: Markie Scholz
1920 Christensen Drive, Spearfish, SD 57783-8037
605-642-4805; mscholz@blackhills.com
Further Details: $550 per program, $1000 for two programs in same day, $1,900 for two programs in two days, $3,600 for residency or block booking; Arts Council matching funds may be available; Statewide Travel; For All Ages
Category: Puppetry and Ventriloquism, Storytelling, Theater, Workshops
Elementary, My Dear Watson!
Program Description: Costumed skits, slide shows, interactive discussions and hands-on activities are used to introduce young adults to Scottish writer Arthur Conan Doyle and his greatest creation, the crime-solving duo of Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson. Presenter Jeff Falkingham is a Browns Valley, MN native whose published works of historical fiction bring Holmes to Minnesota and the Dakotas in the late 1800s.
Contact: Jeff Falkingham
8585 Braxton Drive
Eden Prairie, MN 55347
952-465-1662; Jeff@cccaper.com
Further Details: $300, plus mileage (discount for multiple bookings in a single trip); East River schools and libraries; Grades 5-12
Category: Historical and Native American, Storytelling
Flutterby the Clown
Program Description: Flutterby provides an interactive program that can underscore a specific message or theme, or just be funny and filled with laughs and smiles.
Contact: Jean Bakken
Looney4One@aol.com
Further Details: Cost is negotiable, depending on type of performance/ size of event; Mileage reimbursement; Statewide Travel; For All Ages
Category: Balloons, Clowns, Magic
Jason the Juggler
Program Description: Juggling stage show, perfect for summer reading events. Interactive program is about 35-40 minutes in length. The show is choreographed with music, features audience volunteers, and many different forms of juggling, unicycling, and manipulation that showcase Jason's skill level and entertaining ability.
Contact: Jason Huneke
Zumbrota, Minnesota
(507) 398-2599; jason@jasonhuneke.com
Further Details: Pricing for the 35-40 minute show is $300 including all travel to most Libraries in South Dakota; Multi-Library bookings are almost always $300 per library; No travel expense, and will supply own sound equipment; For All Ages
Category: Comedy, Juggling, Theater
Jay & Leslie's Laughing Matters
Program Description: An energetic and humorous program of juggling, mime, magic, radio plays and audience participation. Jay & Leslie have performed over 5000 shows in 30 states and 8 countries since 1980.
Contact: Jay Cady & Leslie Seifert-Cady
P.O. Box 1312, Mission, KS 66222
913-432-4555; laughing@leslieandjay.com
Further Details: $900 per day-can be split between three libraries; Statewide Travel; For All Ages
Category: Comedy, Juggling, Magic, Storytelling
Jim Two Crows Wallen
Program Description: Stories and programs/workshops include: “Buckskins, Furs & Calico”, “Did Granddad Really Say That?… True Tales and Other Lies”, “Down The Santa Fe Trail”, “Grandma Told Me! Collecting and Sharing Your Family Stories”, “Tipi Days (Tepee Days)”, “Two Crows’ Fur Company”, and “We're Off! To The Gold Fields”.
Contact: Deborah Wallen
608 East Kansas Street, Independence, Missouri 64050-4011
816-245-6510 or 1-888-4-2CROWS;
twocrows@sunflower.org
Further Details: $500 for 1 to 2 performances plus travel expenses, discounts available for multiple performances, tour packages; Mileage, Meal and Travel Reimbursements; Statewide Travel Range; For All Ages
Category: Historical and Native American, Storytelling
Jo Ho, Storyteller
Program Description: Delight all ages with collections of folktales, fairytales, holiday stories, and curriculum enhancement stories. Jo Ho spins tales year round at preschools, elementary and middle schools, libraries, museums, and festivals.
Contact: Overland Park, KS
913-402-9530 or 913-461-4504
joho@johostoryteller.com
Further Details: $100.00-150.00 per program (Discounts available for
multiple bookings); Mileage/Travel Expenses; Statewide Travel during summer months; For All Ages
Category: Storytelling, Workshops
Jocko's and the J's
Program Description: Jocko and the Js show incorporates a little magic, in addition to the tricks performed by the monkeys. Concepts such as safety, cooperation, goal setting and learning are stressed during the show.
Contact: Jim Williamson
P.O. Box 890, Cedar Falls, IA 50613
319-266-8654
Further Details: $750/ day; Statewide Travel; For Ages 0-109
Category: Animal Shows, Magic
KG & The Ranger
Program Description: Husband and wife duo, specializing in the cowboy songs from the Hollywood cowboys like Roy Rogers, Gene Autry, etc. Fun and varied western show which includes rope-tricks, an 8 foot tall cowboy, sing-along cowboy songs and yodeling.
Contact: Karen Gogolick & Rick Roltgen
2517 Waunona Way, Madison WI 53713
608-222-4084; kg@kgandtheranger.com
Further Details: For All Ages
Category: Historical and Native American, Music
Margi Coxwell
Program Description: Margi Coxwell has been a storyteller for well over 25 years. She tells multicultural stories and sings songs that tell stories from all over the world.
Contact: Margaret J. Coxwell, Ed.D.
202K Old Main, Minot State University
500 University Ave. West, Minot, ND 58707
701-838-6942 (H); 701-858-3125 (W)
coxwellm@minotstateu.edu
Further Details: $100/ hour per performance, $400/day for storytelling all day at a school (4.5 hours); Travel Reimbursement; Statewide Travel; For grades Preschool through 6th Grade
Category: Music, Storytelling, Workshops
Margie Reitsma, The Story Connection
Program Description: As a professional storyteller, Margie shares stories with children and adults in libraries, schools and at community events throughout the Midwest. Program options include summer reading programs adapted for specific themes, family shows, school assembly shows, and many more.
Contact: Margie Reitsma
1018 College Ave., Adrian, MN 49221-2516
712-737-2472; mreitsma@rconnect.com
Further Details: $100 for single performance and reduced prices for sequential bookings (other performances on same day in same area); Mileage and Lodging provided; Statewide Travel, prefering block booking for touring; For All Ages, 4-94
Category: Historical and Native American, Storytelling
Mark Armato
Program Description: Tales of Lewis and Clark Come and listen to the wonderful stories of the Lewis and Clark Expedition! This American epic has given us incredible tales of danger, hardships, fortitude and undaunted courage. Just the kind of stories that make history come alive and fun for young audiences. Mark Armato appears as a costumed member of the Corps of Discovery.
Contact: 1009 NE 97th Street, Kansas City, MO 64155
(816) 734-1745; samhanvin@aol.com
Further Details: $300 for 1-2 performances, additional performances are $100 each; Travel Expenses; Statewide Travel; For classes Kindergarten through 6th Grade
Category: Historical and Native American, Storytelling
Max Tell
Program Description: A professional writer, storyteller, and educator, Max Tell offers a variety of performances catering to young and older children.
Contact: Robert Stelmach
(604) 538-9466; Robert@maxtell.ca
Further Details: Rates vary based on performance and tour possibilities; Statewide/ National Travel; For All Ages
Category: Puppetry and Ventriloquism, Storytelling, Theater, Workshops
Noise Guy
Program Description: Fractured fairy tales using vocal sound imitations. Mr. Williams shows children and teens how to animate their stories, storytelling, journaling, reading and drawing using vocal imitations.
Contact: Charlie Williams
22651 SE 56th Street, Issaquah, WA 98029-5282
425-427-6299 or 866-236-6479
charlie@noiseguy.com
Further Details: $350 per show, will do multiple bookings; Statewide Travel; For All Ages
Category: Storytelling, Workshops
Oneida Storyteller
Program Description: If you've ever wondered where stars come from or how turtle cracked his shell, Oneida storyteller, Debra Morningstar has a native legend just for you!! She engages her audiences in a lively and interactive format using an Indian Storybasket, hand drums, flute, and rattles. In culminating her presentation, she invites children, students, and families to join her in a Native American Friendship Dance.
Contact: Debra Morningstar
Neenah, WI
(920) 836-2971, cell (920) 915-4154
dawest@centurytel.net
Further Details: Starting at $350, discounts for multiple bookings; Mileage Reimbursement; Requirements include electrical outlet is appreciated; Statewide/National Travel; For All Ages
Category: Historical and Native American
Penny & Pals
Program Description: Penny & Pals writes, records and performs original, award-winning music. Their concerts literally sweep kids off their feet and feature playful costumed characters and tons of kids-participation.
Contact: Penny Andrist
2810 Edgewood Drive, Fargo, ND 58102-1645
701-293-8004; info@pennyandpals.com
Further Details: Prices range from $350 to $1,000 and depend on variables; Travel reimbursement; Statewide Travel; For Ages 2-12
Category: Dance, Music, Theater, Workshops
Phil Baker
Program Description: Phil Baker takes children on a musical adventure that nurtures the imagination and creativity. Conga, limbo, freeze, swim and do the hug songs are featured.
Contact: P.O. Box 88852, Sioux Falls, SD 57109
605-361-8501; philbaker3@sio.midco.net
Further Details: Performances vary in price from $350-$1,000. (Arts Council matching funds may be available); Statewide Travel; For Ages 2-12
Category: Dance, Music
Pockets Full of Fun
Program Description: A Pockets Full of Fun program includes ventriloquism, puppetry, magic, stories and lots of audience participation. Lisa writes a new show every year that corresponds with the National Summer Reading program theme, but she also has programs which would work for Children's Book Week, Read Across America Week and other special events you many plan for your library. Lisa has written several children's books and has done author shows for libraries and schools as well. Lisa also does puppetry workshops.
Contact: Lisa Laird email
317 7th St. NE Orange City, IA 51041
home: 712-737-2639
cell:712-737-7760
Further Details: Lisa uses zone pricing so contact her for exact pricing. Program pricing range from $225-$450 depending on zone, no mileage charges for travel across South Dakota. Multiple show discounts are available. Lisa is a rostered artist for the Iowa Arts Council so grants may be available.
Category: Puppetry and Ventriloquism, Magic, Storytelling, Workshops
Reza
Program Description: Reza is recognized as one of America's Top Illusionist's. His innovative and inspirational approach to the art of magic makes his show one-of-a-kind.
Contact: P.O. Box 144, Brookings, S.D. 57006
605-692-7002, Fx 605-697-5050
booking@magicreza.com
Further Details: Contact for pricing and availability; Statewide/Nationwide Travel; For All Ages
Category: Magic
Rita Rae
Program Description: Performances include original children's songs and little stories that capture the essence of childhood. Examples of material include: “The Story of Lonesome Bill;” “Sock Sorting Song;” “Lucky Wins A Ducky;” “Birthday Party Song;” “The M&M Song;” “Build Me A House;” “Jungle Song;” “Would You Like Me To Have Lunch? — The Story of Peanut Butter and Jelly;” “The Thing About Ketchup” and “The Creepy Caterpillar.”
Contact: 835 Brown Ave, St. Paul, MN 55107
651-222-7719; RitaRaeInc@AOL.com
Further Details: $125 per concert; Statewide Travel; For Preschool aged children
Category: Music, Storytelling
Backstage with a Rodeo Clown
Program Description: Duane Reichert transforms himself from street clothes to the unique, outlandish costume, makeup and mannerisms of a professional rodeo clown. With the use of short comedy skits and animals, he shares the dangers, the comic relief, and the suspense surrounding his life.
Contact: Duane Reichert
16398 Hay Draw Road, New Underwood, SD 57761
605-985-5575 or 605-347-5793
Further Details: vary in price between $500-$1000. (Arts Council matching funds may be available); Hotel reimbursement; Statewide Travel; For All Ages
Category: Comedy, Storytelling
Rosie Cutrer
Program Description: Rosie's programs are a lively blend of stories and music (autoharp, banjo and ukulele). Some of her programs include: multicultural tales, spooky and spastic tales, “Happy Feet” tales, and pioneer tales which are appropriate for school age children.
Contact: 6033 SW 38th Street, Topeka, KS 66610
785-271-1982; rcutrer2@cox.net
Further Details: $100 for 45 minute program, $165 for one Pioneer Program; Block booking and week long residencies price breaks given; Mileage and lodging expenses; Travel range includes Eastern South Dakota; For All Ages
Category: Historical and Native American, Music, Storytelling
Stories By Steve
Program Description: Storytelling For Children: Mr. Otto has over 450 stories in his repertoire that appeal to all age groups, from preschoolers to high schoolers.
Contact: Steve Otto
3606 NE 62nd Terrace, Kansas City, MO 64119-1906
816-454-7262 or 888-29-I-Tell (888-294-8355: Toll Free)
i-tell@juno.com
Further Details: $175 per show, $325 half day, $600 full day and $2500 for full week; Full day and week performances can be split between libraries; Travel and lodging expenses; Statewide Travel; For All Ages
Category: Storytelling, Workshops
Swanson Cowboyography
Program Description: Cowboyography is the study of all things Cowboy! We do our best to bring to life the lore and lure of the American Cowboy in photos, song, and demonstrations of the equipment Cowboys use.
Contact: Steve & Cassandra Swanson
27424 482nd Avenue, Canton, SD 57013
605-743-5270; swanson_farms@yahoo.com
Further Details: Fee is determined by program desired; Mileage/Travel Reimbursement; Statewide Travel; For All Ages, focusing towards classes Kindergarten through 6th Grade
Category: Historical and Native American, Music, Storytelling
Mr. Twister
Program Description: Mr. Twister is a full time chilrdren's entertainment specialist & a regional favorite. His shows are packed full of fancy twisted balloons, magic tricks, stories, audience participation & BIG FUN!
Contact: Bob Anderson
2100 S. Euclid Ave., Sioux Falls, S.D. 57105
605-338-9928/ 605-310-0365; MRTWISTER98@msn.com
Further Details: $150-$500; Mileage and Hotel reimbursement; Statewide Travel; For All Ages
Category: Balloons, Comedy, Magic, Storytelling
Wilson King Productions
Program Description: T. Wilson King presents the story of An Ostrich Named Emu. Emu likes to be creative, learn new things and play. King uses sing-a-longs, simple activities and illustrations in the program. Children of all ages are engaged, amused, and entertained while they learn valuable life lessons about diversity and acceptance.
Contact: T. Wilson King
605-624-9576, 605-677-7933
twkp_2000@yahoo.com
Further Details: $250 per show, discounts for multiple shows, sales tax if applicable, mileage and hotel if needed; Statewide/ Regional Travel; For All Ages
Category: Music
Zoo Man
Program Description: The Zoo Man has traveled throughout the United States and Canada performing live animal programs for libraries, afterschool programs, and schools.
Contact: Brent Mielke
Adrian, MN 56110
507-794-6197; zooman@sleepyeyetel.net
Further Details: $200/ show; Additional Costs include Mileage for 1 show; State-wide Travel; For All Ages
Category: Animal Shows
ZooMobile
Program Description: All ages will enjoy getting a close-up, hands-on opportunity to get nose-to-nose with a variety of creatures as they explore the wonders of the animal kingdom.
Contact: Jamie Edberg, Education Services Manager
Great Plains Zoo and Delbridge Museum
805 S. Kiwanis Ave, Sioux Falls, SD 57104
605-367-8313 ext. 15.; jedberg@gpzoo.org
Further Details: Cost is Size and Location Pending, Mileage and Sales Tax; Travel Range covers 150 miles from Sioux Falls; For All Ages
Category: Animal Shows
