Presenter/Performer Directory - Recommended by Kentucky Public Librarians

Information is provided by public librarians and included with permission.
Inclusion does not constitute an endorsement by Kentucky Department for Libraries and Archives.
Presenters are listed in alphabetical order.

A
- Dick "Richard" Albin
  518 Belmont
  Bowling Green KY 42101
  Phone: 270-842-7381
  Email: dramuse@mindspring.com
  Website: http://www.dramuse.com/
  - Rating: Highly Recommended
    - Rating Submitted By: Ron Day
    - Library: Bell Co. Public Library District
    - Contact Information: 606-337-3422 / ron@ron-day.com
    - Date Submitted: 02/07/07
    - Description: Dick is a musician and storyteller. He has many interactive elements in his programs. I have observed musical presentations, storytelling workshops and presentations, dulcimer camps (building / learning to play), play production, etc. He uses dulcimers, banjo, and mouthbow, and the stories are a mixture of folk tales, Jack tales, and original stories. Songs are both traditional folksongs and original songs.
    - Comments: I have known and worked with Dick Albin in various capacities for 30 years and have no hesitation recommending him for your libraries.
    - Age Level(s): All Ages
    - Approximate Cost: $250
- Almost Recess
  10689 Stansfield Road
  Laurel, MD 20723
  Phone: 410-988-2298
  Email: jason@almostrecess.com
  Website: http://www.almostrecess.com
  - Rating: Highly Recommended
    - Rating Submitted By: Becky Watson
    - Library: Woodford County Library
    - Contact Information: 859-873-5191/rwatson70@windstream.net
    - Date Submitted: 01/30/2007
    - Description: The band comes out with only microphones and an amplifier and explains how the human voice is an instrument. They then perform a wide variety of songs. Dave, the percussionist, performs beats while singing. The men can perform traditional do-wop to contemporary hip hop music. They take questions and are interactive with the audience.
    - Comments: Although this group is more expensive than some that libraries traditionally get the program would appeal to a group 4th grade and up who often starts to lose interest in the library and pleasure reading, therefore making them more valuable than another performer that appeals to preschoolers.
    - Age Level(s): All Ages
    - Approximate Cost: $800
- Animal Enterprises
  3710 Boyers Chapel Rd.
  Sadieville, KY 40370
  Phone: 859-235-9873
  Email: runpigrun@kyk.net
  Website: http://www.animalenterprisesinc.com
  - Rating: Highly Recommended
    - Rating Submitted By: Cathy McGee
    - Library: Scott County Public Library
    - Contact Information: 502-863-3566/cathy@scottpublib.org
    - Date Submitted: 01/26/07
    - Comments: Animals were in good condition and were friendly with the children. A certificate of insurance was provided prior to the program.
    - Age Level(s): All Ages
    - Approximate Cost: $350
B
- Aretta Baumgartner
  5097 Sumter Ave.
  Cincinnati OH 45238-3824
  Phone: 513-470-2690
  Email: aretta@INpuppets.com
  Website: http://inpuppets.com/Home_Page.html
  - Rating: Highly Recommended
    - Rating Submitted By: Sally McSpadden
    - Library: Boone County Public Library
    - Contact Information: 859-384-5550/smcspadden@bcpl.org
    - Date Submitted: 02/01/2007
    - Description: ImagineNation offers puppetry, drama, mask and storytelling performances and workshops for libraries, schools, and private functions.
    - Comments: Aretta is wonderful with all ages of kids (and adults!). She has several ready-made shows including puppetry 101 and storytelling, but can work around a theme as well.
    - Age Level(s): All Ages
    - Approximate Cost: $175
- Gail L. Blair
  Phone: 859-781-0417
  Email: gblair@fuse.net
  - Rating: Highly Recommended
    - Rating Submitted By: Sally McSpadden
    - Library: Boone County Public Library
    - Contact Information: 859-384-5550/smcspadden@bcpl.org
    - Date Submitted: 02/01/2007
    - Description: Gail is one of our favorite storytellers. She frequently brings her puppet Louisa. She has done a fabulous Mother Goose program for us, as well as others.
    - Age Level(s): All Ages
    - Approximate Cost: $100 plus possible mileage
- The Blue Apple Players
  P.O. Box 4261 Louisville, KY 40204
  Phone: 1-800-587-7990
  Email: info@blueappleplayers.org
  Email: gblair@fuse.net
  Website: http://www.blueappleplayers.org
  - Rating: Highly Recommended
    - Rating Submitted By: Sherry Bogard
    - Library: Shelby County Public Library
    - Contact Information: 502-633-3803/childservice@scplibrary.net
    - Date Submitted: 07/25/2007
    - Description: We had them perform stories for our summer reading program. The audience loved them. They interacted well with the children and had many children help participate in the stories, it was great.
    - Age Level(s): All Ages
    - Approximate Cost: Very Reasonable
C
- Joel Caithamer, The Singing Librarian
  Email: sjhammer@fuse.net
  Website: http://www.joelsings.com
  - Rating: Highly Recommended
    - Rating Submitted By: Sally McSpadden
    - Library: Boone County Public Library
    - Contact Information: 859-384-5550/smcspadden@bcpl.org
    - Date Submitted: 02/01/07
    - Description: Joel does an active, fun program with music for kids. He is wonderful with the audience. He visited us for National Children's Book Week and everyone had a great time!
    - Age Level(s): All Ages
    - Approximate Cost: $300
- Campfire Kev
  Phone: 502-348-7255
  Email: kevin@campfirekev.com
  Website: http://www.campfirekev.com
  - Rating: Highly Recommended
    - Rating Submitted By: Sally McSpadden
    - Library: Boone County Public Library
    - Contact Information: 859-384-5550/smcspadden@bcpl.org
    - Date Submitted: 02/01/07
    - Description: I just can't recommend Campfire Kev too much, he was so great! He gives a wonderful production full of music, juggling, humor and magic and ties everything in wonderfully with the importance of and love for reading.
    - Age Level(s): All Ages
    - Approximate Cost: $350
- Champion Juggler Marc Daniels
  Marc Daniels
  P.O. Box 197725
  Louisville, KY 40259
  Phone: 502-363-2485
  - Rating: None Submitted
    - Rating Submitted By: Kimberly Burden
    - Library: Ohio County Public Library
    - Contact Information: 270-298-3790/kburden@ohiocountybpubliclibrary.org
    - Date Submitted: 2005
    - Comments: Marc presented two juggling program for our Summer Reading Finale. He was very entertaining and the children really like his performance.
    - Age Level(s): All Ages
    - Approximate Cost: $600 for two programs
- Cynthia Changaris
  
  2109 Wrocklage Ave.
  Louisville, KY 40205
  Phone: 502-451-7144
  E-Mail: cchangaris@aol.com
  - Rating: Highly Recommended
    - Rating Submitted By: Carol Q Sexton
    - Library: Pulaski County Public Library
    - Contact Information: 606-679-8401 /carol.sexton@newwavecomm.net
    - Date Submitted: 08/2007
    - Comments: Cynthia is FANTASTIC! a pure pleasure and was spellbinding! She hit her target audience and no one should miss her wonderful gift of storytelling!
    - Age Level(s): All Ages
    - Approximate Cost: Will need to ask
D
- Daisy the Pig
  Daisy Minor
  436 Hill St.
  Bristol, Ct. 06010
  Phone: 860-589-5999
  http://www.daisyminor.com/
  - Rating: Highly Recommended
    - Rating Submitted By: Renee Bush
    - Library: Clark County Public Library
    - Contact Information: 859 744 2621 /portianay@yahoo.com
    - Date Submitted: 06/04/07
    - Comments: Farmer Minor is an engaging speaker! He managed to hold the attention of 230 children and adults, and the history of Daisy is fascinating! Daisy pretty much stays in her stroller, but every single child there was able to come up after his presentation and kiss/pet her, and have a photo taken with her, if the parents had a camera with them. She is an amazingly docile pig! He displays Daisy's favorite books, and you can probably guess what they are--OLIVIA is largely featured! He stongly stresses having and using a library card, and reading, reading, reading! Our non-fiction pig books flew off the shelves, as well as the picture books you would expect. One negative coment, from a father who brought his ten or eleven year old son; this program is for younger children! This particular older child commented, "Is that IT?" at the end, but the little ones were absolutely frantic to see Daisy, and we were swamped with requests to have Daisy back again. We already have her booked for 2008!
    - Age Level(s): Preschool, Grades K-3
    - Approximate Cost: $300.00
- Dave Hepler
  7029 North Central
  Indianapolis, IN 46220
  Phone: 317-255-3893
  Email: dhepler@indy.rr.com
  Website: http://www.davehepler.com
  - Rating: Highly Recommended
    - Rating Submitted By: Mike Key
    - Library: Scott County Public Library
    - Contact Information: 502-863-3566/mike@scottpublib.org
    - Date Submitted: 09/2006
    - Description: "A fun, creative jazz piano show," Dave always opens concerts with a completely improvised tune inspired by your audience on the spot. Included are very famous jazz standards by the like of Duke Ellington and as well as a few of Dave's own tunes. Dave Hepler reveals anecdotes and musical ideas to listen for as he brings the audience with him through his music.
    - Comments: Dave engages all ages during his performance with wonderful anecdote-laced jazz.
- Joann Digby
  614 S.Horseshoe Dr
  Somerset, Ky 42501
  Phone: 606-451-0468
  Email:
  Website:
  - Rating: Highly Recommended
    - Rating Submitted By:
    - Library: Pulaski County Public Library
    - Contact Information: 606-679-8401 /louann.hardy@newwavecomm.net
    - Date Submitted: 07/2007
    - Description: Joann demos food prepartion of almost any recipe. She gives the background behind each recipes as well as audience participation.
    - Comments: Joann made us a soup she had tried at a White House function. The class was so much fun we are inviting her back soon.
    - Age Level(s): Grades 4-6, Young Adult, Adult
    - Approximate Cost: Pricing will vary depending on mileage and recipe you would like prepared.
- Dink the Magician
  5733 Munfordville Rd.
  Sonora, Ky. 42776
  Phone: 270-324-4851
  - Rating: Recommended
    - Rating Submitted By: Kathy Crawford
    - Library: LaRue County Public Library
    - Contact Information: 270-358-3851 /kathycrawford@earthlink.net
    - Date Submitted: 04/19/07
    - Description: As he performs magic tricks, he will use specific books from the library to tell the kids where they can find out how to do them. He really promotes books and reading, since he got his start by doing magic shows at our library's summer reading programs as a kid. His magic tricks also include animals.
    - Age Level(s): All Ages
    - Approximate Cost: $200.00
F
- Fashoo the Fool
  John Strauss
  P.O. Box 5702
  Louisville, KY 40255
  Phone: 502-379-3482
  Email:fashoo@rentafool.com
  Website: http://www.rentafool.com/fashoo.htm
  - Rating: None Submitted
    - Rating Submitted By: Renee Bush
    - Library: Clark County Public Library
    - Contact Information: 859-744-2621/reneeccpl@yahoo.com
    - Date Submitted: 06/2006
    - Comments: This is the second year in a row we have had Fashoo at the Clark County Public Library. He drew our biggest crowd of the summer so far, and our books were almost flying out the front door. His act is very funny; he draws in the kids and uses them as volunteers; the parents find hiim entertaining. He is no trouble at all to set up for, and is so easy to work with. He encourages the kids to check out lots of books and to READ in order to find success in life. He has gone along with our SRP theme each time he has been with us, and we plan to have him and again.
    - Age Level(s): All Ages
    - Approximate Cost: $260.00
- Ellen Ford
  Address: 2151 West Fair Avenue #215
  Lancaster, OH
  Phone: 740-654-4046
  Email: eford9@ameritech.net
  Website: http://www.ellenford.com
  - Rating: Highly Recommended
    - Rating Submitted By: Sally McSpadden
    - Library: Boone County Public Library
    - Contact Information: 859-384-5550/smcspadden@bcpl.org
    - Date Submitted: 02/01/07
    - Description: Ellen is a wonderful storyteller who always has stories ready for any theme. She usually has one available for whatever the upcoming summer reading theme is.
    - Age Level(s): All Ages
- Frazier Arms Museum
  B.J. Davis
  829 West Main Street
  Louisville, KY 40202
  Phone: 502-412-2880
  - Rating: None Submitted
    - Rating Submitted By: Lynette Ison
    - Library: Oldham County Public Library
    - Contact Information: 502-222-1141/lison@oldhamp1.org
    - Date Submitted: 2005
    - Comments: Two performers came and did a show of knights. They both read a story to the children, and then one dressed as Joan of Arc, gave her last speech before her death to show the children how people spoke in that time.
    - Age Level(s): All Ages
    - Approximate Cost: Mileage + Materials expenses, if craft is done
- Thomas Freese
  2802 Floore Ct.
  Louisville, KY 40299
  Phone: 502-491-5664, 502-439-7720
  E-mail: thomasfreese@bellsouth.net
  - Rating: Highly Recommended
    - Rating Submitted By: Dawn Privett
    - Library: Paris-Bourbon County Public Library
    - Contact Information: 859-987-4419/dprivett@bourbonlibrary.org
    - Date Submitted: 05-07-07
    - Description: Talented storyteller Thomas Freese tells wonderful tales across Kentucky, in schools, libraries, and at festivals. Thomas Freese is the author of Shaker Ghost Stories from Pleasant Hill, KY, and Fog Swirler and 11 Other Ghost Stories. Thomas spins stories about people and animals, friends and family, using creative voice and with animated expression. He plays guitar, harmonica and other musical instruments, engaging audiences as they remember the story and make it their own. Thomas offers author classroom visits, writer-in-residence work with students, storytelling/teaching workshops, and more. Programs include origami tales, porquois tales, silly stories & songs, ghost stories, fairy tales, world folktales, New Mexico stories and winter tales.
    - Comments: Thomas Freese is funny, entertaining, and engages all ages of the family with a wide variety of programs. As a published author, he can talk about writing and encourage budding authors, children or adult, to promote their own work. This is the third year in a row that we've hired him to teach origami for our Summer Reading kick off celebration, and we also have him come each year to tell from one of his 12 programs as well as do a fall performance of his ever-popular ghost stories. Thomas plays guitar, harmonica and creates his own songs to match the program themes. What we most appreciate is how he inspires the children to write, do art, and sing.
    - Age Level(s): All Ages
    - Approximate Cost: $250-500
- Frisch Marionettes
  http://www.frischmarionettes.com/
  P. O. Box 58505
  Cincinnati, Ohio 45258
  Phone: 513-451-8875
  E-mail: backstage@frischmarionettes.com
  - Rating: Highly Recommended
    - Rating Submitted By: Susan Hampton
    - Library: Owen County Public Library
    - Contact Information: 502-484-3450 /susanhampton@bellsouth.net
    - Date Submitted: 09/05/2007
    - Comments: Kevin did his "Variety Show" for us. I can not say enough how wonderful this show was. He is extremely professional and talented! It was amazing! (And he makes all his marionettes). Well worth the price. I will have him again and again. He has many other programs he can do. Please check out the website for more information.
    - Age Level(s): All Ages
    - Approximate Cost: $675 for 2 shows (local rate)
G
- Ghost Hunter
  Patti Starr
  835 Porter Place
  Lexington, KY 40508
  Phone: 859-576-5517
  Website: http://www.ghosthunter.com
  - Rating: None Submitted
    - Rating Submitted By: Ginger Kincaid
    - Library: Bath County Public Library
    - Contact Information: 606-674-2531 /gkincaid@alltel.net
    - Date Submitted: 07/16/2007
    - Comments: Patti did a powerpoint presentation that included audio and video accounts of her ghosthunts. Lasted about an hour and then we had a book signing. We had a great turnout and everyone enjoyed the presentation. She was very nice to everyone and took time to answer lots of questions.
    - Age Level(s): Grades 4-6, Young Adult, Adult
    - Cost: $300
  - Rating: None Submitted
    - Rating Submitted By: Dawn McMillan
    - Library: Boone County Public Library
    - Contact Information: 859-371-6222/dmcmillan@bcpl.org
    - Date Submitted: 2005
    - Comments: Ms. Starr is a certified Ghost Hunter. Her presentation includes video footage of "haunted" houses and hospitals. There are also audio files in her presentation that Ms. Star says are the voices of spirits answering questions that she asks them. Very spooky! This presenter has an excellent attitude towards teens and is very patient.
    - Age Level(s): Young Adult, Adult
    - Approximate Cost: $225.00 for two programs
H
- Heiken Puppet Company
  Patrice Heiken-Craig
  5124 Middle Mt. Vernon Road
  Evansville, IN 47712
  - Rating: Recommended
    - Rating Submitted By: Sherry Bogard
    - Library: Shelby County Public Library
    - Contact Information: 502-633-3803/childservice@scplibrary.net
    - Date Submitted: 09/2006
    - Comments: We hired the Heiken Puppet Co. to perform at our library for the 2006 summer program, and they did a good job.
    - Age Level(s): Preschool
    - Approximate Cost: N/A
  - Rating: Highly Recommended
    - Rating Submitted By: Kathy Crawford
    - Library: LaRue County Public Library
    - Contact Information: 270-358-3851
    - Date Submitted: 09/2006
    - Description: The puppet show was a musical that allowed children's interaction. They added elements to tailor the program to our specific location by adding an Abraham Lincoln puppet into the program.
    - Comments: They were very professional, prompt and easy to work with. Everyone of all ages enjoyed the program.
    - Age Level(s): Preschool, Grades K-3, Grades 4-6
    - Approximate Cost: Dependent upon distance traveled
  - Rating: Recommended
    - Rating Submitted By: Shirley French
    - Library: Gallatin County Public Library
    - Contact Information: 859-567-2786/shirleyfrench@gallatincountylibrary.org
    - Date Submitted: 09/2006
    - Description: Large hand puppets, very colorful. Did a great job. We had no problem with this performer, and the kids loved them.
    - Age Level(s): Preschool, Grades K-3
    - Approximate Cost: $375.00
- House of Reptiles
  Scott Braunstein
  12 South Main Street/2985 Greenville Road
  Dry Ridge, KY 41035
  - Rating: None Submitted
    - Rating Submitted By: Susan Hampton
    - Library: Owen County Public Library
    - Contact Information: 502-484-3450/hampupton@yahoo.com
    - Date Submitted: 2005
    - Comments: Scott did a wonderful program for our Family Fun Night (2/06)! He brought various reptiles to show: hissing cockroaches, various turtles (one 50 pounds), an alligator, frogs, tarantulas,lots of various lizards, bearded dragon, and the highlight of the show; lots of SNAKES, from little to huge! He strives to help others learn about reptiles and amphibiansin a fun, non-threatening way. He also is runs a rescue program for reptiles and amphibians and tells the kids and parents the facts about the pets upkeep. The "House of Reptiles" located in Dry Ridge, has over 100 animals on display, and the cost on admission is only $3.00 per person (Please call ahead to see if he is there). For our program, Scott arrived early and stayed until every kid got to hold one of the snakes (and we had over 125 people attend this program). He was fun, easy to work with, great with the kids, and VERY affordable. One of the best programs we have had!!
    - Age Level(s): All Ages
    - Approximate Cost: $150.00
I
- Imagination Ink
  P.O. Box #639
  Edmonton, KY 42129
  Phone: 270-432-2276
  E-mail: barnlottheater@yahoo.com
  - Rating: Highly Recommended
    - Rating Submitted By: Donna F. Slaton
    - Library: Muhlenberg County Public Library
    - Contact Information: 270-754-4630 misspockets3@yahoo.com
    - Date Submitted: 07/26/2007
    - Comments: Vivien Worthen-Powell and team of 2 more players in costume present an audience interactive play written specifically for Get a Clue summer reading: "BB's Adventures: The Mystery of the Missing Library Book." With costume, song and comic action, actors look for the missing library book. Happy ending and happy audience. Preschool siblings, school age prime target audience and parents were laughing and enjoying this talented troupe. Modest price, oustanding family program
    - Age Level(s): Grades K-3, Grades 4-6, Young Adult
    - Cost: $300.00 plus travel
J
- Jennifer Rose Escobar
  106 Blue Lake Drive
  Berea, KY 40403
  - Rating: None Submitted
    - Rating Submitted By: Carol Sexton
    - Library: Pulaski County Public Library
    - Contact Information: 606-679-8401/carol.sexton@charterbn.com
    - Date Submitted: 2006
    - Comments: Reads stories; sings.
    - Age Level(s): All Ages
    - Approximate Cost: N/A
- Greg Jowaisas
  521 forest View Lane
  Covington, KY 41015
  Phone: 859-291-7062
  Website: http://www.gregsfolkmusic.com
  - Rating: ** Highly Recommended
    - Rating Submitted By: Carol Sexton
    - Library: Pendleton County Public Library
    - Contact Information: 859-654-853/sflorence@pcplibrary.org
    - Date Submitted: 2007
    - Comments: plays different instruments and talks briefly about each one. He sang songs and even incorperated riddles to go along with our mystery theme. He was very good with the kids. He did a good job of keeping their attention. Not only did the kids enjoy the program, but the adults loved it as well.
    - Age Level(s): All Ages
    - Approximate Cost: $150/ one program; $250/ two programs
- Jus' Kiddin'
  Presenter: Nina Wagner
  Website: http://www.juskiddin.com
  Phone: 513-777-5855
  Email: hpatterson@cinci.rr.com
  - Rating: Highly Recommended
    - Rating Submitted By: Angela Henson
    - Library: Campbell County Public Library-Cold Spring
    - Contact Information: 859-781-6166 ext.32 Email: ahenson@cc-pl.org
    - Date Submitted: 04/01/08
    - Description: Jus' Kiddin' bridges the generation gap with a unique brand of authentic American musical entertainment for kids and adults. Pricing depends on the number of musicians she brings. As few as three musicians up to a fully-amplified band. Professional musicians provide a wide variety of musical styles and song types which are appealing to all ages.
    - Comments: Nina Wagner is very personable and the group she brought to perform at our library was outstanding. People young and old enjoyed this performance by these talented artists.
    - Age Level(s): All Ages
    - Approximate Cost: $300 up
K
- Kentucky Environmental Educational Co. Inc.
  44 Baker Ln.
  London, Ky 40741
  Phone: 606-682-8562
  E-Mail: bgelza@msn.com
  - Rating:** Highly Recommended
    - Rating Submitted By: Carol Q Sexton
    - Library: Pulaski County Public Library
    - Contact Information: 606-679-8401 /carol.sexton@newwavecomm.net
    - Date Submitted: August 2007
    - Comments: Tammy Elza and animals were better than great! NOT associated with Natural History Ed. Co. very nice, professional, a crowd pleaser
    - Age Level(s): All Ages
    - Approximate Cost: $250.00
- Kevin Holladay
  7899 Bloomfield Road
  Bardstown, KY 40004
  Phone: 502-252-7258
  Website: http://www.campfirekev.com
  - Rating: None Submitted
    - Rating Submitted By: Toy Lancaster
    - Library: Lexington Public Library
    - Contact Information: 859-231-5534/tlancaster@lexpublib.org
    - Date Submitted: 2005
    - Comments: Kevin is a very skilled children's musician/performer. He did a Preschoolapalooza program for our preschoolers and a SRP theme-related program for ages six and up. The school-aged kids loved it, and gave him a standing ovation at the end. He was very professional and esy to work with. If you like Zak Morgan or Rober Day, you will enjoy Kevin. Check his website... his credentials and references speak for themselves.
    - Age Level(s): Preschool, Grades K-3, Grades 4-6
    - Approximate Cost: $2,400 for 12 programs

Steve Keifer
Phone: 800-374-7428
- Rating: Highly Recommended
  - Rating Submitted By: Lisa Kersey
  - Library: Corbin Public Library
  - Contact Information: 606-528-6366 / lisakersey_cpl@yahoo.com
    - Date Submitted: 02/15/07
    - Description: He has many programs to chose from but for us he did a Mysteries of the Sea program where the children pulled thick ropes while singing sea songs.
    - Comments: It was my favorite program this past summer. All the children were involved and they loved learning all the interesting facts about sea life.
    - Age Level(s): All Ages
    - Approximate Cost: $150 - $225
- Kevin Stonerock
  4765 South Greensboro Pike
  Knightstown, IN 46148
  Phone: 765-987-7908
  Website: http://www.kevinstonerock.com
  - Rating: None Submitted
    - Rating Submitted By: Jarrett Boyd
    - Library: Carroll Co. Public Library
    - Contact Information: 502-732-7020/jarrett@carrollcountylibrary.org
    - Date Submitted: 2005
    - Comments: Billy Yank (all ages) -- common soldier for the Union, set in 1864, deals with camp life, battle field experiences, music, etc. / A Visit with a Fur Trader (4 through adult) / Civil War through Story and Song (grades 4 to adult) / Small Town Living in the Good Old Days (adult) -- music and stories
    - Age Level(s): All Ages
    - Approximate Cost: $300 within 200 mi. of Knightstown, mileage if further
L
- Kel Lovins
  505 Lovins Lane
  Somerset, KY 42503
  Phone: 606-274-5194
  E-mail: vicki.lovins@newwavecomm.net
  - Rating: Highly Recommended
    - Rating Submitted By: Pulaski County Public Library
    - Library: Pulaski County Public Library
    - Contact Information: 606-679-8401 /louann.hardy@newwavecomm.net
    - Date Submitted: 07/31/2007
    - Comments: Gourd Painting class where each person paints or he will help them draw a design on their gourds. He can also help them make gourd birdhouses. Price varies depending on if you provide the gourds and paints. We have done the gourd painting class at all 4 of our branches. It has been a well loved class. I bought some of the gourds at the Amish Community in Casey County.
    - Age Level(s): Grades 4-6, Young Adult, Adult
    - Cost: Contact performer
M
- Mad Science of Kentucky
  P.O. Box 72270
  Louisville, KY 40272
  Phone: 502-995-8899
  Email:
  - Rating: Highly Recommended
    - Rating Submitted By: Susan U. Hampton
    - Library: Owen County Public Library
    - Contact Information: 502-484-3450
    - Date Submitted: 09/07
    - Comments: Has many diferent science based programs. All are exciting and fun. Can work around a theme and can handle large crowds. Andrea works aound my summer theme to make a great program. Every presenter has been great and the kids are always surprised science can be so exciting!
    - Age Level(s): All Ages
    - Approximate Cost: around $200.00
- Marie Augustine's Garbage Can Band
  112 East Oak Street, Unit 4
  Louisville, KY 40383
  Phone: 502-635-1043
  Email: marie714@aol.com
  - Rating: None Submitted
    - Rating Submitted By: Becky Watson
    - Library: Woodford County Public Library
    - Contact Information: 859-873-5191
    - Date Submitted: 2005
    - Comments: Ms. Augustine sings classic children's songs, old-time rock and roll, and for our program, patriotic songs because it was three days before Independence Day. She plays the guitar along with her singing and children from the audience get to play all the garbage can instruments, including several drums and various other percussion instruments.
    - Age Level(s): Preschool, Grades K-3, Adult
    - Approximate Cost: $125
- Mark Sparkman
  185 Hill N Dale Road
  Morehead, KY 40351
  Phone: 606-784-4538
  Email: mdspark@yahoo.com
  - Rating: Highly Recommended
    - Rating Submitted By: Ginger Kincaid
    - Library: Bath County Public Library
    - Contact Information: 606-674-2531 / gkincaid@alltel.net
    - Date Submitted: 07/16/07
    - Comments: Mr. Sparkman does a wonderful magic show. He incorporated puppets and audience participation. He did a wonderful job. He is great with the kids and the adults loved him as well. We are already planning to have him back, maybe around Halloween.
    - Age Level(s): All Ages
    - Approximate Cost: $150 + travel
  - Rating: Highly Recommended
    - Rating Submitted By: Deby Baker
    - Library: Wolfe County Public Library
    - Contact Information: 606-668-6571 / books2_1999@yahoo.com
    - Date Submitted: 06/07/07
    - Comments: Mark's presentation was fun for everyone! He involves the entire audience with a non-stop 45 minute program plus putting in several "plugs" for the importance of the library. I plan to have him back as soon as possible.
    - Age Level(s): All Ages
    - Approximate Cost: $200
  - Rating: ** Highly Recommended
    - Rating Submitted By: Delphine Byrd
    - Library: Garrard County Public Library
    - Contact Information:
      859-792-3424
      Email: delphinebyrd@hotmail.com
    - Date Submitted: 06/22/07
    - Comments: He did a wonderful job. The audience both young and old love him. Audience participation. No white rabbit, but he had a white lab rat made from a hankerchief that kept jumping in the audience that got so many laughs. R.K. the opposum was great also.The best I've had for the money. I will use him again. If more than 1 library uses him on the same day you can save money
    - Age Level(s): All Ages
    - Approximate Cost: $150 plus mileage
- Konnie Massey
  Konnie Massey
  PO Box 1522
  Somerset, KY 42502
  Phone: 606-305-3376
  Email:
  Website:
  - Rating: Highly Recommended
    - Rating Sumbitted By: Pulaski County Public Library
    - Contact Information: 606-679-8401 /louann.hardy@newwavecomm.net
    - Date Submitted: 07/2007
    - Description: Professional storyteller using traditional methods to reach audiences of any age. She does not use props, but voice inflection, expression and audience participation to hold the interest of any audience. Training for adults on a variety of topics are available as well.
    - Comments: Don't miss seeing her "Eleven Cinderellas," if possible. Konnie made bead with our Jewelry club and each member loved making their necklaces unique. We did a second class where they made small jewelry bowls as well.
    - Age Level(s): All Ages, Preschool, Grades K-3, Grades 4-6, Young Adult, Adult
    - Approximate Cost: $

Marie Augustine's Garbage Can Band
112 East Oak Street, Unit 4
Louisville, KY 40383
Phone: 502-635-1043
Email: marie714@aol.com
- Rating: None Submitted
  - Rating Submitted By: Becky Watson
  - Library: Woodford County Public Library
  - Contact Information: 859-873-5191
  - Date Submitted: 2005
  - Comments: Ms. Augustine sings classic children's songs, old-time rock and roll, and for our program, patriotic songs because it was three days before Independence Day. She plays the guitar along with her singing and children from the audience get to play all the garbage can instruments, including several drums and various other percussion instruments.
  - Age Level(s): Preschool, Grades K-3, Adult
  - Approximate Cost: $125
Cyndi Mendell
Phone: 859-781-1609
Email: eford9@ameritech.net
Website: http://www.theartinstituteofcincinnati.com
- Rating: Highly Recommended
  - Rating Submitted By: Sally McSpadden
  - Library: Boone County Public Library
  - Contact Information: 859-384-5550/smcspadden@bcpl.org
  - Date Submitted: 02/01/07
  - Description: Cyndi has had an amazing career in illustration, graphic design, TV production, and all other types of media. She comes to the library to talk to teens about her career in illustrating as well as do an art studio-like program. We have always focused on manga, the Japanese style of illustrating and the participants often bring their work for her to critique. She is experienced in all types of art so I'm sure manga is not the only thing she can present on. Cyndi is wonderful with the teens and clearly loves what she does for a living.
  - Age Level(s): All Ages
Chris McBrien
Phone: (618) 713 - 6401
Email: magicstoryteller@verizon.net
Website: www.magicstoryteller.biz
The Magic Storyteller Entertainment Co.
P.O. Box 373 Chester, IL 62233-0373
- Rating: Highly Recommended
  - Rating Submitted By: Anna Lamb
  - Library: Graves County Public Library
  - Contact Information: 270-247-2911 /annalamb68@hotmail.com
  - Date Submitted: 06/19/07
  - Description: Does an excellent Magic Show, has Puppets and tells storys. Very good. The children and parents had a great time.
  - Age Level(s): All Ages
Mike Hemmelgarn
420 Wellington Way
Springboro, OH 45066
Phone: 937-748-2245
Fax: 801-749-2245
Email: greatshow@hotmail.com
- Rating: None Submitted
  - Rating Submitted By: Leslie Sutherland
  - Library: Carroll County Public Library
  - Contact Information: 502-732-7020/leslie@carrollcountylibrary.org
  - Date Submitted: 2005
  - Comments: Mike Hemmelgarn is a Comedy Juggler and Ventroliquist. He does a wonderful job of keeping the audience entertained. The director of the library and myself feel that of all the performers the library has had in the past 10 years, he is by far the best!
  - Age Level(s): All Ages
  - Approximate Cost: $325, but cheaper if more than one show is booked in the area the same day
Don Miller
Family Time Entertainment
960 East Washington St., Suite 10013
Indianapolis, IN 46202
Phone: 888-752-9109
Website: http://www.familytimeentertainment.com
- Rating: Highly Recommended
  - Rating Submitted By: Lise Tewes
  - Library: Kenton County Public Library; Erlanger Branch
  - Contact Information: 859-962-4003 /lise.tewes@kentonlibrary.org
  - Date Submitted: 11/2007
  - Comments: I had Don Miller do his "Fun Food Show" at the Erlanger Branch Library in July, 2007. He is a magician, so he included magic in the show. It was very interactive, fun as well as informative. Enjoyed by kids and adults alike.
  - Age Level(s): Preschool, Grades K-3, Grades 4-6
  - Approximate Cost: $400.00
Mr. Cowpie
Doug Gehner
3930 Smith Road
Mentor, Kentucky 41007
Phone: 859-635-7552
Website: http://www.mrcowpie.com
- Rating: None Submitted
  - Rating Submitted By: Renee Bush
  - Library: Clark County Public Library
  - Contact Information: 859-744-2621/reneeccpl@yahoo.com
  - Date Submitted: 06/2006
  - Comments: We had "Mr. Cowpie" at our library last night! (6/13/06) He was terrific, and the kids LOVED him! We had ONE HUNDRED TEN people come out for the program -- one of our highest attendances ever -- and he and his wife, Farmer Joan, sang and showed animals and told aobut each animal. (I love it that all of their animals are rescues!!!) The kids were totally caught up in the entire program, and especially loved it when Miss Renee (that would be me) had to feed a cockatoo a Cheerio from my TEETH! TWICE!!! It was hilarious, and a lot of fun. They were very easy to work with, no trouble as far as setting up, and our patrons want them to come back next year. We are definitely having them again!
  - Age Level(s): All Ages
  - Approximate Cost: $275.00
The Muses

P.O. Box 23
Jamestown, CO 80455
Phone: 877-384-3936
Website: http://www.renaissancechic.com
E-mail: themuses@renaissancechic.com
- Rating: Highly Recommended
  - Rating Submitted By: Melissa Gibson
  - Library: Scott County Public Library
  - Contact Information: 502-863-3566/melissa@scottpublib.org
  - Date Submitted: 08/2007
  - Comments: The Muses present a variety of music programs and you can make your selections depending on the audience; children, young adult, adult, mixed audience, etc. They are wonderful musicians presenting traditional Celtic music, sea shanties, folk songs - all intermingled with wonderful jokes and audience participation. We had such a wonderful turnout the first time we had them (last fall) that we have moved this year's program to a larger space. We actually had people stopping out in the lobby (we were full!) and craning their necks to hear them. They are very easy to work with and extremely professional. Highly recommended.
  - Age Level(s): All Ages
  - Approximate Cost: $400.00

N
- Natural History Educational Company
  Scott Kelley
  4893 Clarksville Road
  Russellville, KY 42276
  Phone: 270-726-3007
  Fax: 270-626-3007
  Email: kywildlife@yahoo.com
  Website: http://www.nhecwildlife.com
  - Rating: Contact for More Information
    - Rating Submitted By: Sherry Bogard
    - Library: Shelby County Public Library
    - Contact Information: 502-633-3803/childservice@scplibrary.net
    - Date Submitted: 07/2006
    - Comments: As far as commenting on his program, I would not know, he never showed up, no phone call, nothing. I tried calling his office, home and cell, he never answered. My suggestion to any library foolish enough to use him, better get a contract. He will tell you he does not use a contract, then don't hire him. I will not make this mistake again in the future, no matter how well or who recommends them.
    - Age Level(s): N/A
    - Approximate Cost: N/A
  - Rating: Contact for More Information
    - Rating Submitted By: Susan Hampton
    - Library: Owen County Public Library
    - Contact Information: 502-484-3450/hampupton@yahoo.com
    - Date Submitted: 07/2006
    - Comments: Scott Kelley did not show up for our scheduled program for Summer Reading 2005. I had a contract, and I didn't know he was not coming until the morning of the program (because I had been trying to reach him and called him very early that morning.) He gave the reason someone was in the hospital. Said he would call and reschedule our program for another time at no charge, but as of 7/20/06, I still haven't heard from him.
    - Agen Level(s): N/A
    - Approximate Cost: N/A
- Al and Penny Nelson
  105 Hillcrest Ave.
  Louisville KY 40206
  Phone: 502-897-7198
  Email: atpjnelson@bellsouth.net
  Website: http://www.nelstone.com
  - Rating: Highly Recommended
    - Rating Submitted By: Ann Trompeter
    - Library: Louisville Free Public Library, Okolona Branch
    - Contact Information: 502 964-3515 /ann@lfpl.org
    - Date Submitted: 11/08/06
    - Description: Library attendees participate in creating a stonecarving for the library. Library chooses what type of stonecarving they want. Each particpant leaves with a bracelet or necklace with a primitive carving made from the chunk they took from the stone they worked on.
    - Comments: Al and his wife truly love what they do and love people. We have had them here for the past 7 summers and have beautiful stones to show for it. He has quite a following here in Louisville.
    - Age Level(s): All Ages
    - Approximate Cost: N/A
P
- Priscilla Primrose
  Rhonda Beam
  182 Douglas Road
  Murray, KY 42071
  Phone: 270-759-0997
  Email: priscilla@wk.net
  - Rating: None Submitted
    - Rating Submitted By: Sandy Linn
    - Library: Calloway County Public Library
    - Contact Information: 270-753-2288/sandyccpl@yahoo.com
    - Date Submitted: 2005
    - Comments: I have not had Rhonda perform at our library in a couple of years. She is one of our avid library patrons. Over the past two years she has developed a program using more drama and music. She is a very accomplished musician and has a wonderful voice. I would say that her greatest strengths are her character development of a proper English lady complete with accent and her music. She states in her bio. that she is a weaver of children's stories promoting virtuous character and the love of reading featuring drama and music. She has performed at many of the area schools. Two of the scholl librarians have told me that she did good programs for them.
    - Age Level(s): Preschool, Grades K-3, Grades 4-6
    - Approximate Cost: $275 + travel
R
- Rainbow Show Puppets
  Louisville KY 40206
  Phone:
  Email:robin@rainbowshowpuppets.com
  Website: http://www.rainbowshowpuppets.com
  - Rating: Highly Recommended
    - Rating Submitted By: Sherry Bogard
    - Library: Shelby County Public Library
    - Contact Information: 502-633-3803 /childservice@scplibrary.net
    - Date Submitted: 07/2007
    - Description: Puppet Show
    - Comments: We had them perform Henny Penny for summer reading, and our children and parents enjoyed them. They interact with the children through-out the show. Robin's son Brian is now performing with her, he is very much like his father, the children will love his silly attitude.
    - Age Level(s): All Ages
    - Approximate Cost: Call for Pricing

Rich Haynes and Jamie Moreland
107 North Third Street
Harlan, Kentucky 40831
Phone: 606-573-5220
Email: libraryrich@yahoo.com
- Rating: None Submitted
  - Rating Submitted By: Regina Holland
  - Library: William B. Harlan Memorial Library
  - Contact Information: 270-487-5301/wbhmlib@alltel.net
  - Date Submitted: 2005
  - Comments: Rich Haynes, Youth Services Librarian at Harlan County Public Library, and Jamie Moreland demonstrated a Renaissance/Medieval combat/jousting performance while they were dressed in period costumes, including body armor, shields, and weaponry. The children (and adults) were enthralled as they watched these gentlemen demonstrate their combat abilities. They even made the front page of our local newspaper.
  - Age Level(s): All Ages
  - Approximate Cost: No charge, but a donation was given to help with mileage expenses

S
- Tom Sparough
  Phone: (513) 542-1231, (800) 544-3725
  Email: Tom@SpacePainter.com
  Address: 4228 Delaney St. Cincinnati, OH 45223
  - Rating: Highly Recommended
    - Rating Submitted By: Sally McSpadden
    - Library: Boone County Public Library
    - Contact Information: 859-384-2665/ smcspadden@bcpl.org
    - Date Submitted: 02/11/08
    - Comments: Tom is a veteran juggler of more than 30 years and has been coming to the Boone County libraries for the last 20. He mixes juggling stories, comedy, and audience participation into his shows. He can work with any theme. One of his specialties is bringing juggling, and balancing activities so that everyone in the audience gets involved, even when there are 100s of people present. We have had Tom come to our library several times. He always brings in large crowds and never disappoints! Not only is he an amazing juggler, he is a comedian and wonderful performer all around.
    - Age Level(s): All ages
    - Approximate Cost: $350 (multiple show discounts available)

Jeanne Speier
Phone: 513-861-7461
- Rating: Highly Recommended
  - Rating Submitted By: Sally McSpadden
  - Library: Boone County Public Library
  - Contact Information: 859-384-5550 / smcspadden@bcpl.org
  - Date Submitted: 02/01/07
  - Comments: Jeanne has several dance programs for children. She did a "Dance Around the World" program which was active and hands-on. She also has yoga programs. She even brings costumes and props for the kids!
  - Age Level(s): All ages
  - Approximate Cost: $100

Squallis Puppets
Address: 414 Baxter Avenue
Louisville KY 40204
Phone: 502-540-4977
Website: http://www.squallispuppeteers.com
E-Mail: squallispuppeteers@yahoo.com
- Rating: Highly Recommended
  - Rating Submitted By: Carol Q Sexton
  - Library: Puliaski County Public Library
  - Contact Information: 606-679-8401 /carol.sexton@newwavecomm.net
  - Date Submitted: 08/07
  - Comments: a fantastic show, very neat and different!
  - Age Level(s): All ages
  - Approximate Cost: $350.00

T
- Tales and Scales
  Lynn Kinkade
  P.O. Box 3672
  Evansville, IN 47735
  Phone: 812-425-8741
  Website: http://www.talesandscales.org
  - Rating: None Submitted
    - Rating Submitted By: Toy Lancaster
    - Library: Lexington Public Library
    - Contact Information: 859-231-5534/tlancaster@lexpublib.org
    - Date Submitted: 2005
    - Comments: This group of professional musicians combines storytelling with music to create a unique art form they call "music telling." They do not use backdrops or costumes. They wear identical dark pants and colored t-shirts and use wooden boxes and musical instrument to act out the story. For example, the trombone may be played to announce the arrival of a prince in one scene and then be used as a sword in another. It is a difficult concept to explain but it is very effective. We offered three performances of The Arabian Nights at the Central library, but space requirements prohibited it being offered at the branches. We had an audience of 135 for the morning performance, 122 for the afternoon and 70 for the evening. We were delighted with the response and received numerous compliments from the crowd. I will definitely have them back. They were very professional to deal with, and are excellent musicians. They spent time before and after the program interacting with the audience and had wonderful people skills.
    - Age Level(s): Grades K-3, Grades 4-6, Adults
    - Approximate Cost: $2,000 for three performances
W
- Wailing Banshees
  Ellice Chick
  337 High Street
  Richmond, KY 40475
  Phone: 859-358-5059
  - Rating: None Submitted
    - Rating Submitted By: Regina Holland
    - Library: William B. Harlan Memorial Library
    - Contact Information: 270-487-5301/wbhmlib@alltel.net
    - Date Submitted: 2005
    - Comments: Ellice Chick and her friend Audra Michaels dressed in period costumes and sand and performed acoustically. The children loved their funny songs and audience participation.
    - Age Level(s): Grades 4-6
    - Approximate Cost: No charge, but donation was given to help with mileage expenses
- The Wulfe Brothers
  Paul Cunningham
  2902 Valley Drive
  Louisville, KY 40299
  Phone: 502-267-8204
  Email: bill.woods@tricompromotion.com
  Website: http://www.wulfebros.com
  - Rating: Highly Recommended
    - Rating Submitted By: Sherry Bogard
    - Library: Shelby County Public Library
    - Contact Information: 502-633-3803/childservice@scplibrary.net
    - Date Submitted: 07/2007
    - Comments: We had the Wulfe Bros. for summer reading this year. I decided to have them perform their Groovy Sixties Show. This was very fun, however I did not feel the children knew the songs as well us we adults, so take that into consideration. I will have them back again next year.
    - Age Level(s): All Ages
    - Approximate Cost: N/A
  - Rating: Highly Recommended
    - Rating Submitted By: Shirley French
    - Library: Gallatin County Public Library
    - Contact Information: 859-567-2786/shirleyfrench@gallatincountylibrary.org
    - Date Submitted: 09/2006
    - Description: Several musica programs to choose from that entertain all ages. The group intertwines some history into their performance, which makes it educational as well as enjoyable.
    - Comments: Good quality -- highly entertaining -- great rapport with audience.
    - Age Level(s): All Ages
    - Approximate Cost: $575.00

Information Updated:04/01/2008