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"Dan has an easygoing manner that immediately puts everyone at ease. His interactive style of
presenting music and song gets the very youngest to the very oldest involved, with singing
along, clapping and having a great time. The tales Dan tells are imaginative, and contain just the
right amount of repetition and rhyme to keep everyone on the edge of their toes, just wondering
where the tale will end up. Dan Gibson is a performer that our library would not hesitate to bring
back in the future!" -- Kathy Vossler, Wichita Falls, TX, Public Library
"It was a pleasure to have Dan perform at our school. The children and staff not only enjoyed his stories but also his songs. He kept the children engaged and several asked after his performance if he could come back. I would be more than happy for a return visit."
Amy Fuller, Librarian, Ginnings Elementary, Denton, Texas
“Dan customized his stories and songs for each grade level and held the students transfixed. Dan challenged each grade level while entertaining them. He uses his storytelling to promote literacy and the love of music and reading. The students were engaged and appreciative of this important and ancient art, and were still talking about his performance when we returned from Spring Break.” -- Jan McPhee, Librarian, Stewart's Creek Elem., The Colony, Texas
“Your kindness, generosity and patience take your talent for all three and create a show that our kids will remember, share and learn from for the rest of their lives.”
Gwendolyn Dowds-Nash, Mgr. of Youth Services Weatherford Public Library, Weatherford, Texas
"One of our teachers said Dan is a natural storyteller and he truly is that. He had teacherrs and the students on the edge of their seats, all participating. Dan was pickin' and grinnin' the whole three hours. He brightened our day."
Patricia Lee, Library Media Specialist, Daniel Webster Elementary School, Dallas, Texas
"I Loved the way you involved our students all the way. They enjoyed it, while you also made them think. Thank you! I am spreading the word that any elementary campus would enjoy your visit." -- Vickie George, Justiss Elementary, Paris, Texas
"Dan Gibson is a master storyteller and expert entertainer who drew in our students ranging from pre-kindergarten to sixth grade. He had them from the very beginning and they were absolutely enthralled during his entire performance. We all look forward to his return with great anticipation."
Amy Money, Librarian, Caddo Grove Elementary School, Joshua, Texas
"If you need a storyteller/banjoplayer, Dan Gibson is your man."
News & Record, Greensboro, North Carolina
"Dan's storytelling and playing of several musical instruments was superb. He fascinated our entire school -- from pre-kindergarten through fourth grade. Each audience, regardless of age level, was kept captive by his talents. Students were also visiting the school library because of interests sparked by Mr. Gibson's topics. Red Rock Elementary would love to have Mr. Gibson back on campus in the future."
Wanda Lentz, Title 1 Teacher, Red Rock Elementary, Red Rock, Texas
"Dan provided our residents with a wonderful entertainment event, and left them humming and chuckling. He's a talented and gracious performer. I have had requests to invite him back!"
Carolyn Dennis, Life Enrichment Fine Arts Resource Coordinator, Grace Presbyterian Village, Dallas, Texas
"I can't remember when I've heard high school students yell, 'Encore.' The kindergarten teachers keep stopping me and telling me how perfect you were for their students."
Paula Salter, Librarian, Heritage Christian Academy, Rockwall, Texas
"Dan Gibson is magic! Children are held spellbound by his stories."
Linda Bradberry, Children's Librarian, Palestine Public Library, Palestine, Texas
"Thank you for the wonderful performance at our library. It is always a sign of a successful performance when the audience doesn't want to leave."
Jennifer Beach, Central North Carolina Regional Library, Burlington, North Carolina
"It was great that the students were able to help say parts of the story. The music made the stories more interesting."
"I applaud Dan Gibson for asking children to 'chew on the' meaning of the butterfly story. It is an ingeneous way to encourage kids to transfer meaning from a story to their own experiences. I would have liked to have more time added to his presentation."
"The students were enthusiastic and engaged throughout Dan's stories and songs. His interactive program was great!"
Teachers' comments, Brentfield Elementary School, Richardson, Texas
"I have had Dan out to the library many times and each time he has been absolutely wonderful. The children are able to engage with him, and his stories are always entertaining and educational. Plus, the banjo is a big winner with the kids and adults."
Erik Knapp, Children's Librarian, North Oak Cliff Branch Library, Dallas, Texas.
"Dan Gibson visited our K-3 graders and kept their attention for the full 45 minutes. He could have gone longer if time had allowed. He had their attention the whole time, telling stories, interacting with the kids, and playing his banjo and mountain dulcimer."
Sharon Morgan, Bryant Elementary, Arlington, Texas.
"The students really enjoyed your visit. Your stories were perfect for our students on many different levels. The sign language story gave them an outlet for expression other than language; they get tired and frustrated with the language acquisition process. With this story they were actually able to 'see' the words, and it didn't matter how they pronounced them or what grammar they used! In addition, the song, 'Away Down in the Valley,' was excellent preposition practice! (Many of our students have trouble with this.)"
Aubree Evans, English Language Institute, University of Texas, Arlington
"Our students were mesmerized by your animated stories and songs. You were able to hold the interest of all our students, from kindergarten through fifth grades. Like your storytelling, the impressions you made upon them will stay with them for a long time and will further cultivate their love of literacy. We certainly look forward to you coming to our school again."
Cathy Rumley, Principal, North Graham Elementary School, Graham, North Carolina
"Dan's enthusiasm for his work with children is heartwarming. He loves to connect and to entertain and children respond infectiously to his antics. His humorous stories and music are just plain fun, but often they contain a life lesson slipped in as well. Dan can work with any age and any size group. He's the kind of 'people person' you like to be around. I heartily recommend Dan for any organization. He'll meet the needs of whatever group you have."
Carol Dengle, Children's Librarian, Dallas Public Library, Dallas, Texas
"Your presentation was chock full of inter-disciplinary experiences: Language Arts, Science, Communications, Cultures Around the World, Reading and Writing. I was impressed with your stamina to maintain the attention and interest of different groups of children, K-5th grade, from morning to afternoon. I particularly enjoyed the demonstration of rare and exotic instruments from around the world. I will strongly recommend our P.T.A. invite you back."
Suzanne Terrio, Program Coordinator, Bridlewood Elementary P.T.A., Flower Mound, Texas
"You have a unique way with middle school students, which is no mild feat, and the stories and songs you shared were right on target with our theme. Many students commented to me how much they enjoyed your performance. Thank you for making our 'Westward Yo!' an extra special day." -- Terry L. Cherry, Teacher, 8th Grade U.S. History, Memorial Preparatory School, Garland, Texas
"Children, daycare providers and librarians at the Hampton-Illinois Branch Library enjoyed the program presented by Dan Gibson. He shared a variety of stories that were very well told, amusing and hilariously funny. The children were attentive, involved and had lots of fun as Dan encouraged them to help him tell the stories. Some of the children remembered stories he told at previous programs and requested to hear them again. Mr. Gibson provided the children with a number of thought-provoking, entertaining folk tales and played exciting banjo music to begin and end the program." -- Janet S. Johnson, Children's Librarian, Hampton-Illinois Branch Library, Dallas, Texas
"You definitely left your mark at our library with your lively musical stroytelling talents. We listened. We laughed. We sang. Most importantly, we participated! The real test came when we had teenagers in the audience who do not usually pay attention to the Summer Reading Club performances. You passed this test with 'flying colors.'"
Latonya S. Pegues, Youth Services Librarian, Lancaster Memorial Library, Lancaster, Texas
"We had a great variety of age groups at our Story Time gathering, and Dan did a fantastic job of keeping their attention with songs and stories. More than just the children were entertained. The parents, patrons and the staff were greatly engaged by his music, stories and wisdom. We all appreciated learning a story in sign language." -- Paula Clark, Seaside Public Library, Seaside, Oregon
"A delightful storyteller, his interaction with his audience, no matter the age, makes this ancient art come alive." -- Jenny Cunningham, Curriculum Dir. & Sherry Wortham, Librarian Slocum School, Slocum, Texas
"Children know the difference between a performer and a friend. Dan Gibson not only carries on the fine tradition of storytelling, but he truly likes and understands children. Treat yourself and your patrons to a delightful program by scheduling Dan Gibson."
Jeri Baker, Manager, Park Forest Branch Library, Dallas, Texas
"My 4-year-old daughter sat on the front row in rapt attention during your Audelia branch library show and ever since she has been telling people the "Pushing Up the Sky" story and the story of "The Hen, the Librarian and the Big Mouth Frog." When she finishes, she even tells people,'now it's yours.'" -- Laura Griffin, Dallas, Texas
"Your performance really had something for everyone. It brought in a record crowd for us. The children were completely wrapped up in the stories, actively listening and participating. I think the grown-ups enjoyed your take on 'Old McDonald' as much as the children. My son retold 'Cecil the Caterpiller' in American Sign Language to his dad over dinner that evening. Many of our patrons have stopped in to say how much they enjoyed the evening, and they hope you will come again sometime." -- Heather Holley-Hall, Manager, Graham Public Library, Graham, North Carolina
"Thank you for the fun program. Our children were captivated by your singing and storytelling. They particularly enjoyed hearing and watching you play the banjo and dulcimer. You had great rapport with the children and parents."
Marsha Barker, Assistant Manager/Youth Librarian Renner Frankford Branch Library, Dallas, Texas
"Thank you for visiting us here in Wichita Falls. As our 'kick-off' performer for 'Read Across Texas,' we received only positive and enthusiastic audience feedback for your program. Hopefully, we can persuade you to make the trek up north again."
Lesley Daly, Wichita Falls Public Library, Wichita Falls, Texas
"Dan Gibson came to St. Bernard of Clairvaux Elementary School to help us celebrate our festival of Irish culture. His music and stories were a wonderful finale to our week's events. His style has universal appeal: the children and adults alike appreciated his easy delivery, comedic timing, extensive musical training, and especially the heart in his selection of stories. He was obviously in charge of the audience and allowed lots of interaction within the boundaries he created. The children thanked him personally at the end! We are grateful for his time with us and whole-heartedly recommend the talented Mr. Gibson to any group, large or small."
Carolyn McCormick, St. Bernard's Home & School Assoc., Dallas, Texas
"Thank you for your wonderful presentation. The teachers and students all enjoyed your lively, musical, storytelling sessions. The music, both instrumentals and vocals, had a strong captivating influence on your audience, especially when the students tend to get noisy (such as when they are entering or leaving). The music was also very effective for re-focusing their attention on you after a discussion time. It always makes my job easier when the presenter can handle the crowd, like you did." -- Janet Baria, librarian, Valley Ridge Elementary, Lewisville, Texas
"Dan Gibson's easy going delivery leads the listener into a land where truth becomes relative. Suspending belief, the audience follows Dan down paths that yield laughter and delight. His tall tales are sure to please." -- Dr. Trudy L. Hanson, West Texas A&M University, Canyon, Texas
"I appreciate your talents, both musically and in storytelling, and it was obvious that those in storytime did as well. What a special treat for our library patrons, and for those of us on the staff to have you here." -- Patrick M. Mullin, Amarillo, Texas, Public Library
"Thanks again for a great workshop.Everyone was most complimentary. The Friends of the Library thought you were just terrific." -- Wanda Berry, Director, DeSoto Parish Library, Mansfield, Louisiana
"Thank you so much for making our meeting so enjoyable. Everyone enjoyed your storytelling and banjo playing so much. The number of people gathered around you as you were trying to leave tells all -- they loved you and were anxious to hear just a bit more."
Nancy J. Bennett, Senior Adult Coordinator, AXE United Methodist Church, Garland, Texas
"It was a pleasure to have Dan perform at our school. The children and staff not only enjoyed his stories but also his songs. He kept the children engaged and several asked after his performance if he could come back. I would be more than happy for a return visit."
Amy Fuller, Librarian, Ginnings Elementary, Denton, Texas
“Dan customized his stories and songs for each grade level and held the students transfixed. Dan challenged each grade level while entertaining them. He uses his storytelling to promote literacy and the love of music and reading. The students were engaged and appreciative of this important and ancient art, and were still talking about his performance when we returned from Spring Break.” -- Jan McPhee, Librarian, Stewart's Creek Elem., The Colony, Texas
“Your kindness, generosity and patience take your talent for all three and create a show that our kids will remember, share and learn from for the rest of their lives.”
Gwendolyn Dowds-Nash, Mgr. of Youth Services Weatherford Public Library, Weatherford, Texas
"One of our teachers said Dan is a natural storyteller and he truly is that. He had teacherrs and the students on the edge of their seats, all participating. Dan was pickin' and grinnin' the whole three hours. He brightened our day."
Patricia Lee, Library Media Specialist, Daniel Webster Elementary School, Dallas, Texas
"I Loved the way you involved our students all the way. They enjoyed it, while you also made them think. Thank you! I am spreading the word that any elementary campus would enjoy your visit." -- Vickie George, Justiss Elementary, Paris, Texas
"Dan Gibson is a master storyteller and expert entertainer who drew in our students ranging from pre-kindergarten to sixth grade. He had them from the very beginning and they were absolutely enthralled during his entire performance. We all look forward to his return with great anticipation."
Amy Money, Librarian, Caddo Grove Elementary School, Joshua, Texas
"If you need a storyteller/banjoplayer, Dan Gibson is your man."
News & Record, Greensboro, North Carolina
"Dan's storytelling and playing of several musical instruments was superb. He fascinated our entire school -- from pre-kindergarten through fourth grade. Each audience, regardless of age level, was kept captive by his talents. Students were also visiting the school library because of interests sparked by Mr. Gibson's topics. Red Rock Elementary would love to have Mr. Gibson back on campus in the future."
Wanda Lentz, Title 1 Teacher, Red Rock Elementary, Red Rock, Texas
"Dan provided our residents with a wonderful entertainment event, and left them humming and chuckling. He's a talented and gracious performer. I have had requests to invite him back!"
Carolyn Dennis, Life Enrichment Fine Arts Resource Coordinator, Grace Presbyterian Village, Dallas, Texas
"I can't remember when I've heard high school students yell, 'Encore.' The kindergarten teachers keep stopping me and telling me how perfect you were for their students."
Paula Salter, Librarian, Heritage Christian Academy, Rockwall, Texas
"Dan Gibson is magic! Children are held spellbound by his stories."
Linda Bradberry, Children's Librarian, Palestine Public Library, Palestine, Texas
"Thank you for the wonderful performance at our library. It is always a sign of a successful performance when the audience doesn't want to leave."
Jennifer Beach, Central North Carolina Regional Library, Burlington, North Carolina
"It was great that the students were able to help say parts of the story. The music made the stories more interesting."
"I applaud Dan Gibson for asking children to 'chew on the' meaning of the butterfly story. It is an ingeneous way to encourage kids to transfer meaning from a story to their own experiences. I would have liked to have more time added to his presentation."
"The students were enthusiastic and engaged throughout Dan's stories and songs. His interactive program was great!"
Teachers' comments, Brentfield Elementary School, Richardson, Texas
"I have had Dan out to the library many times and each time he has been absolutely wonderful. The children are able to engage with him, and his stories are always entertaining and educational. Plus, the banjo is a big winner with the kids and adults."
Erik Knapp, Children's Librarian, North Oak Cliff Branch Library, Dallas, Texas.
"Dan Gibson visited our K-3 graders and kept their attention for the full 45 minutes. He could have gone longer if time had allowed. He had their attention the whole time, telling stories, interacting with the kids, and playing his banjo and mountain dulcimer."
Sharon Morgan, Bryant Elementary, Arlington, Texas.
"The students really enjoyed your visit. Your stories were perfect for our students on many different levels. The sign language story gave them an outlet for expression other than language; they get tired and frustrated with the language acquisition process. With this story they were actually able to 'see' the words, and it didn't matter how they pronounced them or what grammar they used! In addition, the song, 'Away Down in the Valley,' was excellent preposition practice! (Many of our students have trouble with this.)"
Aubree Evans, English Language Institute, University of Texas, Arlington
"Our students were mesmerized by your animated stories and songs. You were able to hold the interest of all our students, from kindergarten through fifth grades. Like your storytelling, the impressions you made upon them will stay with them for a long time and will further cultivate their love of literacy. We certainly look forward to you coming to our school again."
Cathy Rumley, Principal, North Graham Elementary School, Graham, North Carolina
"Dan's enthusiasm for his work with children is heartwarming. He loves to connect and to entertain and children respond infectiously to his antics. His humorous stories and music are just plain fun, but often they contain a life lesson slipped in as well. Dan can work with any age and any size group. He's the kind of 'people person' you like to be around. I heartily recommend Dan for any organization. He'll meet the needs of whatever group you have."
Carol Dengle, Children's Librarian, Dallas Public Library, Dallas, Texas
"Your presentation was chock full of inter-disciplinary experiences: Language Arts, Science, Communications, Cultures Around the World, Reading and Writing. I was impressed with your stamina to maintain the attention and interest of different groups of children, K-5th grade, from morning to afternoon. I particularly enjoyed the demonstration of rare and exotic instruments from around the world. I will strongly recommend our P.T.A. invite you back."
Suzanne Terrio, Program Coordinator, Bridlewood Elementary P.T.A., Flower Mound, Texas
"You have a unique way with middle school students, which is no mild feat, and the stories and songs you shared were right on target with our theme. Many students commented to me how much they enjoyed your performance. Thank you for making our 'Westward Yo!' an extra special day." -- Terry L. Cherry, Teacher, 8th Grade U.S. History, Memorial Preparatory School, Garland, Texas
"Children, daycare providers and librarians at the Hampton-Illinois Branch Library enjoyed the program presented by Dan Gibson. He shared a variety of stories that were very well told, amusing and hilariously funny. The children were attentive, involved and had lots of fun as Dan encouraged them to help him tell the stories. Some of the children remembered stories he told at previous programs and requested to hear them again. Mr. Gibson provided the children with a number of thought-provoking, entertaining folk tales and played exciting banjo music to begin and end the program." -- Janet S. Johnson, Children's Librarian, Hampton-Illinois Branch Library, Dallas, Texas
"You definitely left your mark at our library with your lively musical stroytelling talents. We listened. We laughed. We sang. Most importantly, we participated! The real test came when we had teenagers in the audience who do not usually pay attention to the Summer Reading Club performances. You passed this test with 'flying colors.'"
Latonya S. Pegues, Youth Services Librarian, Lancaster Memorial Library, Lancaster, Texas
"We had a great variety of age groups at our Story Time gathering, and Dan did a fantastic job of keeping their attention with songs and stories. More than just the children were entertained. The parents, patrons and the staff were greatly engaged by his music, stories and wisdom. We all appreciated learning a story in sign language." -- Paula Clark, Seaside Public Library, Seaside, Oregon
"A delightful storyteller, his interaction with his audience, no matter the age, makes this ancient art come alive." -- Jenny Cunningham, Curriculum Dir. & Sherry Wortham, Librarian Slocum School, Slocum, Texas
"Children know the difference between a performer and a friend. Dan Gibson not only carries on the fine tradition of storytelling, but he truly likes and understands children. Treat yourself and your patrons to a delightful program by scheduling Dan Gibson."
Jeri Baker, Manager, Park Forest Branch Library, Dallas, Texas
"My 4-year-old daughter sat on the front row in rapt attention during your Audelia branch library show and ever since she has been telling people the "Pushing Up the Sky" story and the story of "The Hen, the Librarian and the Big Mouth Frog." When she finishes, she even tells people,'now it's yours.'" -- Laura Griffin, Dallas, Texas
"Your performance really had something for everyone. It brought in a record crowd for us. The children were completely wrapped up in the stories, actively listening and participating. I think the grown-ups enjoyed your take on 'Old McDonald' as much as the children. My son retold 'Cecil the Caterpiller' in American Sign Language to his dad over dinner that evening. Many of our patrons have stopped in to say how much they enjoyed the evening, and they hope you will come again sometime." -- Heather Holley-Hall, Manager, Graham Public Library, Graham, North Carolina
"Thank you for the fun program. Our children were captivated by your singing and storytelling. They particularly enjoyed hearing and watching you play the banjo and dulcimer. You had great rapport with the children and parents."
Marsha Barker, Assistant Manager/Youth Librarian Renner Frankford Branch Library, Dallas, Texas
"Thank you for visiting us here in Wichita Falls. As our 'kick-off' performer for 'Read Across Texas,' we received only positive and enthusiastic audience feedback for your program. Hopefully, we can persuade you to make the trek up north again."
Lesley Daly, Wichita Falls Public Library, Wichita Falls, Texas
"Dan Gibson came to St. Bernard of Clairvaux Elementary School to help us celebrate our festival of Irish culture. His music and stories were a wonderful finale to our week's events. His style has universal appeal: the children and adults alike appreciated his easy delivery, comedic timing, extensive musical training, and especially the heart in his selection of stories. He was obviously in charge of the audience and allowed lots of interaction within the boundaries he created. The children thanked him personally at the end! We are grateful for his time with us and whole-heartedly recommend the talented Mr. Gibson to any group, large or small."
Carolyn McCormick, St. Bernard's Home & School Assoc., Dallas, Texas
"Thank you for your wonderful presentation. The teachers and students all enjoyed your lively, musical, storytelling sessions. The music, both instrumentals and vocals, had a strong captivating influence on your audience, especially when the students tend to get noisy (such as when they are entering or leaving). The music was also very effective for re-focusing their attention on you after a discussion time. It always makes my job easier when the presenter can handle the crowd, like you did." -- Janet Baria, librarian, Valley Ridge Elementary, Lewisville, Texas
"Dan Gibson's easy going delivery leads the listener into a land where truth becomes relative. Suspending belief, the audience follows Dan down paths that yield laughter and delight. His tall tales are sure to please." -- Dr. Trudy L. Hanson, West Texas A&M University, Canyon, Texas
"I appreciate your talents, both musically and in storytelling, and it was obvious that those in storytime did as well. What a special treat for our library patrons, and for those of us on the staff to have you here." -- Patrick M. Mullin, Amarillo, Texas, Public Library
"Thanks again for a great workshop.Everyone was most complimentary. The Friends of the Library thought you were just terrific." -- Wanda Berry, Director, DeSoto Parish Library, Mansfield, Louisiana
"Thank you so much for making our meeting so enjoyable. Everyone enjoyed your storytelling and banjo playing so much. The number of people gathered around you as you were trying to leave tells all -- they loved you and were anxious to hear just a bit more."
Nancy J. Bennett, Senior Adult Coordinator, AXE United Methodist Church, Garland, Texas
Audience Reviews
Dan Gibson, Storyteller/Banjoplayer
214-331-4559
dan.gibson@juno.com
214-331-4559
dan.gibson@juno.com
Some audiences are tougher than others!