Rhythmic Opera

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Schools and Libraries Programs

Thomas offers two different exciting programs for schools and libraries:

I. Rhythmic Opera's World Percussion Program:

Thomas fascinates his audience weaving musical performance, story, myth, and history with the unlimited possibilities of rhythm. From the oldest drum in the world, "the frame drum" to the most peculiar one, the hubcap, Thomas demonstrates how rhythm can be found just about anywhere.

Audiences have the opportunity to hear and learn about traditional instruments from the Middle east and India. Various rhythms are explored through call and response and rhythmic voicing. This program is highly interactive and engaging with movement, clapping, and an actual "Percussion Petting Zoo".

II. Rhythmic Opera's Rhyming Circus Program

Thomas' own original rhyming stories that are told using a little mime, a little rhyme and a lot of rhythm. Humorous, entertaining, and insightful.

Musical: Live instrumentation could include percussion, harmonica, accordion, flutes, and some unexpected surprises to keep audiences on their toes.

Inspiring and Educational: Provocative and insightful.

Humorous Characters: Meet characters such as the following:

  •    Moses, the king of the fat cat club, who's fatter than a bathroom tub.
  •    Mr. Snoot, the brute, who toots his flute.
  •    Wooly the Sheep, who's as stubborn as a bull.

    ***Many of these characters in the stories are quite fitting for the 2006 Oregon library theme "Paws, Claws, Scales, and Tales".

    Interactive: Clapping, Movement, Call and response.

    General Details:

  •    Shows range 30-45 minutes, tailored to your needs.
  •    Travels through the Northwest. Flat rate plus additional for travel costs
  •    Appeals to all ages. Performances tailored to age group
  •    Will attempt to accommodate themes or ideas that work for your program
  •    A specific program can be a combination of the 'Rhyming Circus" and the "Rhythmic Opera" .
  •    References gladly available.
  •    For scheduling, information or questions, you are welcome to contact Thomas by email.

    Comments:

    Thomas has been compared to the likes of Dr. Seuss and Shel Silverstein.
    "Thomas kept the audience thoroughly engaged. The children were enthusiastic participants from the first beat of the drum. He managed the perfect balance between entertainment and education"
                     -- Jana Hoffman, Children's librarian, Ledding Library of Milwaukie
    "His endearing, fanciful way with children, and his exceptional skill with percussion instruments makes his program enjoyable and inspiring"
                     -- Sue Ellen Liss, Education Coordinator, Neighborhood House
    "I like that Thomas"
                     -- William, Age 5

    *** Recordings: Please have a listen to the mp3 recordings in "The Treat of a Beat" Cd




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