Wonders Down Under is an interactive multifaceted performance. Students come away with a unique look at the wonderful Aussie character through an exciting blending of stories, songs, dance, painting, theatre and didgeridoo - drawing comparisons in American history and culture. The performance honors both Aboriginal and European roots. Students will be introduced to the Aboriginal spiritual worldview, the Bush University, the Creation Story, teaching us to pay attention, care for our water, care for our land, to care for our place wherever we may be. Depending on age, the show could feature dramatic story versions of classic Aussie folks songs & interactive participation; Aboriginal Dreamtime stories told with permission (the Wardamon Creation Story and Great Flood, The Rainbow Snake, Moon & Possum & Spirit Children, Didjeridoo & Termintes, The Sun Lady, Brolga (dancing crane), Gurrukmun the Frog; and/or a selection of classic Aussie Bush Ballads or cowboy poetry. Use this link to view a video excerpt from this program: https://youtu.be/fgQ5eSjba1w

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Artist Background

Paul Taylor is a storyteller & authentic player of Aboriginal percussion & didjeridoo. Trained as a social worker and also in theatre, he’s worked as an actor & stage mgr in Australia’s theatres as well as circus clown in England, Scotland & Wales. Endorsed by the state Arts Councils of TX, WY, UT, ND, NC, SC & SD, Paul travels the US performing and conducting interactive sessions for schools, performing arts centers, festivals, museums & libraries & still goes to the Outback bush each summer. He’s worked w/over 300,000 American children & recorded 5 award-winning albums of Australian song & story, honored w/Parents’ Choice Gold, NAPPA Gold, Storytelling World & Best Educational & Best Spoken Word Recording awards for Children’s Music.

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Search Criteria

• Discipline: Dance, Multi-Disciplinary, Storytelling, Theatre
• Grade Level: Elementary, Middle
• Program Type: Performance
• Cultural Context: Australian
• Accepts bookings in Johnston County