OSAC Performing Arts in Schools

Greg Kennedy performed at Springside and Saltcoats Schools in September 2019.

Can anything be fun about the study of physics? Will we ever use these things in our real lives? 

If you are juggler Greg Kennedy, the answer to both these questions is: Absolutely yes! Innovative Juggler is a combination of high-energy juggling, clean comedy and unique performance pieces. Trained as aN engineer, Greg uses the principles of geometry and physics to create ground-breaking work with original apparatus. 

He has discovered the excitement and challenge of creating performance art using the fundamental concepts of physics. His shows, which are as mind-boggling as they entertain, illustrate the principles of motion, light, energy and, of course, gravity. But they also illustrate something else: that determination and imagination can turn an academic pursuit into a powerful art form.

Twice Greg has entered the highest-level juggling competition, the International Jugglers Association Championships. On both occasions he received their highest honour, the Gold Medal. As one of the first jugglers to go viral, he received over 2-million views on YouTube.

He was the original Scientist character in Cirque Du Soleil’s Totem, touring with them for five years. Throughout his performance career, he has shared his art with millions of people in over 50 different countries. His brilliant blend of impressive feats, rapid-paced wit and the pure beauty of motion amazes audiences everywhere.

Teddy Anderson performed at St. Michael's and M. C. Knoll Schools in May 2019.

Teddy offers a cultural performance that is beautiful, inspiring and interactive. The performance begins with a native prayer, a song on the native flute, two hoop dance demonstrations, detailed explanations of the stories behind each dance, in line with a message of respect for all people, an audience participatory hoop dance and a question and answer period. Throughout Teddy’s performances, workshops and motivational talks he draws on his experience of living and traveling around the world. Witnessing the diversity of cultures in the world has given Teddy a unique outlook on many issues that children face.

Teddy has a community of Elders where he sits, listens and learns. In Teddy’s hometown of Red Deer, Teddy is considered part of the community and continues to contribute by publishing a First Nation’s children’s book through his company “Medicine Wheel Education.”

Before Teddy started hoop dancing full time he worked as the youth coordinator at the Friendship Centre in Red Deer. Teddy has been helping youth all over the world achieve success through his work with schools, community organizations and government institutions.

The experience of seeing Teddy dance and speak has been described as life changing. Teddy has the cultural permission of his Lakota Hoop Dance Mentor Kevin Locke to dance and perform. Combining the traditional Native hoop dancing with a 21st century message, he reaches into his audiences’ heart, imprinting there a message of peace and oneness.

Teddy has honed his skills as a motivational and keynote speaker as well as a workshop facilitator. Teddy has spoken to many audiences on issues including racism, bullying, violence, and the importance of education, human rights, youth peacebuilding and the experience of growing up in Rwanda.

Dumpsta Dragons is a unique and dynamic Asian duet whose members, Andrew Kim and Alcvin (pronounced Alvin) Ramos, have studied the music of India, Japan, Africa, and Australia.

They performed at Columbia and St. Mary's Schools on traditional ethnic instruments (sitar, Japanese flute, digeridoo, kalimba, Moroccan quercebab), as well as uniquely invented instruments (Persian tennis racquet, Moroccan hockey stick, spoon bass), fabricated out of recycled household items.

These are combined with modern elements such as beatboxing and digital looping, as well as some Australian aboriginal dance making a truly one of a kind ensemble! Children today are growing up in a multi-cultural global village.

The intention of this performance was to cross cultural divides, expose children to a rich tapestry of musical traditions, and show that there are no limits to creativity. The traditional side of the show exposed the children to the music of other cultures with instruments such as Japanese Shakuhachi (Zen flute), Indian sitar, Australian didgeridoo, and African kalimba. Most have been made by the artists.

Volunteers experienced jamming with the band, beatboxing, and song construction through digital looping. Alcvin taught Australian Aboriginal dance, circular breathing, and demonstrated how didgeridoo mimics the sounds of animals. Andrew even showed how to convert a wooden spoon into a guitar! Both Alcvin and Andrew talked of their musical life journeys, and inspire children by showing them that musical dreams can be realized through hard work and belief in oneself.

"Very interesting and educational show (Dumpsta Dragons) that gave students the opportunity to visit different places on earth through the enjoyment of music. Music is Everywhere"
--Bryce Krawetz, Principal, Columbia School