My programs connect students and staff to the magic of art and wellness, fostering self-expression, resilience, and community pride in ways that go beyond traditional instruction. With a dynamic and inclusive approach, I create memorable experiences that invite individuals to engage, reflect, and grow. Here’s how I can bring transformative value to your school: ___SERVICES____ CUSTOM MURALS & MURAL PROGRAMS I work with schools to create vibrant, community-centered murals that serve as “activation spaces” for empowerment and wellness. My mural programs involve students and staff throughout the entire creative process—from brainstorming and sketching to the final brushstroke—fostering pride and ownership of the space. Each mural is designed to reflect the school’s culture and to become a joyful, welcoming space. • Mural Programs: Involve students and staff from concept to completion • Any Size and Location: Indoor, Outdoor, Floor, Ceiling, Windows, 3D Structures • Digital/Physical Designs for Marketing and Promotion ART & WELLNESS WORKSHOPS These hands-on workshops explore the intersection of art and wellness, focusing on skills for emotional expression, identity, and creativity. Each workshop includes wellness techniques—such as mood regulation and goal-setting—that empower participants personally and academically. Workshops can be customized to provide a comprehensive and meaningful experience. • Art Techniques: Mural Making, Printmaking, Drawing, Painting, Graphic Design, Clothing Design • Wellness for Students and Staff: Yoga, Meditation, Energy Awareness, Breathing Techniques, Sound Healing • Career Pathways: Art Entrepreneurship, Portfolio Development, Self-employment Guidance • Language Support: Customized materials for non-native English speakers (Spanish available) GUEST SPEAKING Through engaging talks and interactive sessions, I share insights from my life and career that inspire students and staff to explore their potential. With options for keynote addresses, classroom discussions, professional development, and wellness workshops, each engagement is tailored to connect with audiences of any age group. • Keynote Speaker • Panel Discussions • One-on-one, Small and Large Groups • In-classroom Experiences (All ages) • Staff Development in Art and Wellness CONSULTING I offer consulting services to help schools and organizations develop meaningful art and wellness programs, design spaces that inspire, and cultivate positive school culture. • Interior/Exterior Aesthetic Design • Art Education Curriculum & Development • Wellness Curriculum & Development • Classroom Culture & Development • Staff Professional and Personal Development ADDITIONAL SERVICES To complement murals and programming, I provide extra support in content creation and promotional services to enhance the visibility and impact of your school’s art and wellness initiatives. • Custom Social Media Content for Promotional/Educational Use • Photography and Videography for School Promotion and Documentation WHY CHOOSE THIS EXPERIENCE? My programs are designed to help students thrive by nurturing their creativity, focus, and self-regulation. Through a blend of art and wellness, students gain practical techniques for managing their emotions, expressing themselves, and developing valuable artistic and entrepreneurial skills—all of which support their ability to engage fully in the classroom. From hands-on mural projects that build school pride to wellness-centered workshops that equip students with tools for emotional balance, each experience creates a positive ripple effect that extends beyond the classroom. Our approach for schools offers a meaningful way to enhance classroom culture and community spirit. Teachers and staff gain new methods to support student well-being and foster a more connected, balanced environment. If you’re ready to see your school enlightened through creativity, connection, and lasting joy; let’s give them an unforgettable experience.

We offer several performers from our roster for BOCES Programs.

Exciting multimedia school assembly programs featuring LIVE performance of rock and roll songs by three talented musicians. Educational content is reinforced by large computer projections of photos and videos. In schools since 1984, "READING ROCKS" promotes literacy; "BIG 80s" features STEM themes and "Mistletunes" is a multicultural December program.

School Shows: Prices for Mop & Bucket Co. Performance only: 45 minutes, two improvisers and accompanist $1000 Additional improvisers, each $200 45 minutes, Theatresports (™) show, five improvisers plus accompanist $1,500 Second show same ½ day (morn or afternoon) $500 Customized for specific character education themes (more lecture-demo elements than average performance) $ +100 Workshops: 45 minutes, one or two trainer-facilitators $350-$450 Multiple after school improv workshops - Let’s talk Combinations: Evening performances (PTA event, etc.): 45 minutes, two or three improvisers and accompanist $800 Additional improvisers, each $200 Motivational Speaker package for public schools - Let’s Talk Travel/ Mileage: No Charge within 30 miles of 10 North Jay Street, Schenectady NY Over 30 Miles: $1.00/mile from 10 N. Jay Sound reinforcement Wireless lavaliere, mixer, PA package (recommended for a cafetorium, auditoriums, etc.) $200 Dates Available Please call or email to discuss your needs. We like to make it work for you. Program Theme: We work with you to create an entertaining, all improvised show that meets your instructional agenda. Showcasing the main tenets of improv (be spontaneous, celebrate positive risk taking, accept and build with what exists, make your partner look good) our shows support your programs on anti-bullying, diversity and inclusion, or enhancing creativity. We also address core subjects using NYS standards as guidelines. Program Description: Improv shows for entertainment and education. Interactive improv workshops, which can be in combination with a show, using selected students as our collaborators. Offsite workshops for faculty and staff, for team building, communication skills development, and more.

LEVI’S RELIC - Educational Touring Show SYNOPSIS When a fairy named Levi crushes his wing trying to help his friends, he loses his ability to control the wind and fly. Determined to get his powers back, he embarks on a journey in search of a quick fix. Instead, it puts everything he loves in grave danger. This powerful story teaches children the dangers of looking to substances to feel whole, and how to help your family and friends get help if they are struggling – by believing in your community and believing in yourself. With support provided by Onondaga County, Redhouse is thrilled to be workshopping an original play with songs for elementary-aged children, with supplemental resources/activities for students, that teaches about Opioid Abuse in a developmentally appropriate way. We are launching our pilot tour for free all over Onondaga County starting in January, 2024 and running through May, 2024. As part of the tour, educators and families will also be provided a list of resources for anyone they may know who may be struggling on where to receive assistance (in collaboration with the Drug Prevention Network).

'Traditions of Chinese Acrobatics' is a solo acrobatic performance. Li Liu performs hand balancing, artistic cycling, plate spinning, ribbon dancing, diabolos and foot juggling. A limited number of volunteers get to join her on stage to create an impromptu ribbon dance, and also to try their hand at plate spinning. Educational connections are made with the Chinese language and culture. Li explains some of the rituals of Chinese New Year, teaches the audience some basic Chinese phrases, and encourages them to think about what it might have been like to grow up in a different time and place.

I offer a variety of school assembly programs, including shows about recycling and water conservation. In addition I offer workshops in mime, movement and theater.

A leading motivational speaker and author, I share stories and insights that have enabled me to triumph over cerebral palsy and hearing loss, framing the program around the importance of love, family, and forgiveness in our lives. Though I was in a wheelchair for four years, and can now walk pretty well, the journey has not been easy. Though physically bullied in school and rather than respond in anger, I chose to forgive and help the bullies! A positive attitude can help us celebrate our unique gifts while kindness and respect can help those gifts be revealed. Each program culminates in a powerful documentary video to demonstrate, by example, that we should always focus on our abilities. As a former special needs kid, I describe how optimism and confidence allows us to share an important life philosophy using three simple words: Yes I Can! Which is precisely the title of my published book, helping teen readers and parents overcome self-doubt when faced with tremendous challenges. DETAILS FOR GRADE SCHOOLS: Shorter 35-minute presentation for grades K-2 (focused on disability awareness, character education, kindness and respect, and the qualities of a superhero) followed by a longer 60-minute presentation for grades 3-5 (focused on anti-bullying, leadership, and resilience). Two assemblies maximum per day, preferably before lunch. To help with drive time and share travel expenses from my New Jersey home, I suggest programs at multiple schools on consecutive days. Please email me to establish initial contact, due to my hearing loss, or leave voicemail on my landline. Also open to an introductory Zoom meeting for a "meet-and-greet" and to answer your questions. ONLINE SPEAKER RESUME: www.JustTheWayYouAre.com/resume

The Magic of Reading with Brian Richards is designed to tickle the imagination, highlight the fun of reading, and encourage children to explore the library. This elementary reading school assembly will inspire your students to open a book and start reading! Featuring magic, comedy, audience participation, storytelling, and educational fun, The Magic of Reading assembly show is a hit with students, teachers, and staff! Librarians, Teachers, PTA Presidents, Principals, Students, and Parents have and continue to give amazing reviews for this program. This elementary reading school assembly show promotes reading and the importance of visiting the library, utilizing Magic, Comedy, Storytelling, and Audience participation. The Magic of Reading will touch on reading genres and the types of books found in the library, including Fantasy, Adventure, Mysteries, Science Fiction, Horror, Non-Fiction, and more. The show features the books “The Empty Pot” and “Abiyoyo.”

BubbleMania: Science, Art & Comedy! An extremely "pop"ular assembly that combines bubbling skills, clean humor and toe-tapping tunes with an exploration of the natural sciences to amaze, amuse and inspire. This show connects the dots between creativity and scientific know-how. Students K-5 learn how bubbles form, how to use simple tools to create jaw-dropping bubble sculpture at home (spaceship, bubble cube, bubble disco ball), the science of bubble bursting, secret formulas and more. Includes eye-popping, artistic routines choreographed to jazzy music and a finale that finds a student trapped inside a giant bubble. Developed by Casey Carle, international award-winning bubble manipulator with credits that include Cirque du Soleil, Sesame Street and The Smithsonian Institute. Thousands of shows presented at schools across New York & New England for two decades. Brains will whirl, eyes will go wide and jaws will drop for students and staff alike. Amaze, amuse and inspire with BubbleMania!

James Bruchac was raised in the Adirondack foothills town of Greenfield Center, New York. A citizen of the Nulhegan Abenaki Tribe, and eldest son of acclaimed author and storyteller Dr. Joseph Bruchac III, James grew up immersed in the natural world, storytelling, and native culture. James has both authored and co-authored books for all ages. Children’s books include How Chipmunk Got His Stripes (Dial), Turtle’s Race with Beaver, Rabbit’s Snow Dance (Dial) When the Chenoo Howls (Walker), Be Good, a True Cautionary Tale (Bowman Books), and Native American Games and Stories (Fulcrum) and The Stories He Tells, The Story of Joseph Bruchac. General public titles include Scats and Tracks of the Northeast, Scats, and Tracks of the Southeast, Scats, and Tracks of the Mid-Atlantic (Falcon), and The Girl Who Helped Thunder, an anthology of Native American tales (Sterling). James is a member and former president of the Wordcraft Circle of Native Writers and Storytellers. Upcoming releases include Kids in the Woods (Bowman Books), Trails and Tales of The Grizzly, and Trails and Tales of The Wolf (fulcrum) Building on his family’s tradition, for over thirty years, James has shared stories at hundreds of schools and libraries across the country. Whether telling an interactive animal story or a monster tale, he keeps listeners of all ages on the edge of their seats as well as part of the action. James has performed at many festivals, museums including the Smithsonian Discovery Theater (Washington DC), the Corn Island Storytelling Festival (KY), Noble Tales Festival and the Connor Prairie Museum (IN), Indian Summer and Riverbend Festivals (WI), The Boston Children’s Museum and the John F. Kennedy Library and Museum (MA), the Hudson River Clearwater Festival, the Noteworthy Indian Museum, and The Old Songs Festival. James and other members of his family were featured on the PBS special Adirondack Storytellers (WMHT/PBS). James studied exercise science and English at Ithaca College and has a degree in American Studies from Skidmore College. Active in both high school and college athletics, Mr. Bruchac was a member of the 1988 Ithaca College National Championship football team and went on to be an Empire League Semi-pro All-star defensive end in 1991. He has studied martial arts since the age of ten, currently holding the rank of Shihan (5th-degree black belt) in Kyokushin Karate as well as being a third degree black belt in Brazilian Jui-Jitsu. Father Joseph and brother Jesse also hold black belts in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. All three working together to run Alliance Saratoga Jiu-Jitsu, and The Saratoga Academy of Elite Martial Arts.

Imagine effortlessly inspiring students to read more and respect others! Students LOVE magic, humor, audience participation & special effects, therefore completely absorb the strong educational messages in assembly programs: "Discover the Magic of Reading!" and “Take P.R.I.D.E. – Unforgettable Character Education & Anti Bullying Program!” For a Teacher Workshop, “Accelerated Learning in the Classroom!” is both entertaining and highly beneficial for teachers. For a wonderful Family show, “Magic Beyond Imagination!” is a BIG hit!... I know you have many choices. Not many competitively priced shows are as engaging AND educational as these. I bring you my 25 years experience of performing hundreds of school programs and countless others for public & private organizations. School also benefit from my education at Villanova University and Mystery School, the top magicians’ theatrical school. Visit www.SchoolAssemblyMagic.com for more info, show reviews and video samples. Call or email Robert@SchoolAssemblyMagic.com to discuss customized details ideal for your school - ask for FREE study guides!