2013-009 EDC-Arts - Estes Hills Elementary School PTA Fall 2012 Art Grant Agreement $1,000

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' Dream On Productions Buenos Aires,Argentina Tel +54-11-4302.5755 dreamon��_L;holmail.com,ar wNvAv.dreamonproductions.com.ar My name is Alberto Alexander, Director of Dream On Productions. I met Donna Washington in Peru, where Donna was touring with us for the duration of one month. For 9 years I have directed Dream On Productions and I have had the opportunity to see a good number of Storytellers,many in person, others in video form throughout the selection process. Without a doubt, Donna Washington is one of the best Storytellers I've had the pleasure of getting to know. At Markham School, I had the opportunity to chat with a student's mother, who'd come by to purchase one of Donna's CD's. She told me that it was the first time a narrator was able to inspire so much enthusiasm in her son,and that it was her son who had asked her for Donna's CD. Many storytellers who are excellent in their home countries are not necessarily excellent with Latin audiences where English is a second language. However, Donna was able to adapt to the audience's needs in an impressive manner. She demonstrates an excellent amount of flexibility in adapting her stories,depending on varying English levels. She also selected stories that were absolutely appropriate for the maturity level of the children,taking into account the fidgety nature of Latin audiences,and the particular values of each school. Our tours offer the possibility of sharing moments with storytellers outside of the school setting,with tours lasting one month, and a fair amount of personal time in the foreign country. Donna shared a 3- bedroom flat with me and another Storyteller, and the living arrangement worked very well. This is a lot to say for 3 different people sharing an apartment together who had never known each other previously. I believe Donna is open to other cultures, and can appreciate the unique things that each culture has to offer. Likewise, this is no small observation, considering the notable differences between the U.S, and Peru, where many individuals traveling to such a distinct place suffer from culture shock. I would like to end this letter with a quote from one of our contacts: Mrs. Kate Day,English Teacher, S3C Tutor,Fleming College,Trujillo, Peru "Thanks so much for coming all the way up to Trujillo and despite getting ill,still telling your stories. The kids LOVED it. From Primary, up to the end of Secondary,I have heard nothing,but good comments. Some teachers have even said,so when can we go and see her!" Donna got ill due to food poisoning. Most storytellers would have canceled.Not only did she not cancel, but she gave them fabulous performances. No one even suspected that she was ill. I recommend Donna to anyone looking for a Storyteller, who love the art of oral narration, and seek the best for their public. If they wish to contact me directly,my e-mail is dreamon(ahotmail.com.ar. i! Alberto Alexander