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Moment's Notice

September 5, 2010

	Dear Educator,

TVS and two fingers would like to introduce you to an exciting and innovative new poetry program for youth of all ages.

We have been creating our unique combination of performance poetry and sound art since 1996. Our Colorado-based performance troupe has also developed a series of performance workshops designed for the program needs of language, music and performance arts departments.

TVS and two fingers' performance workshop programs engage the listener as well as include them in the process of creating performance poetry. Workshop formats are designed to include interactive sessions in which students are encouraged to create original poetry, learn about making sound art and not only become familiar with performance techniques, but use them. This is why the program is called "Poets Out Loud!"

Performance poetry workshop programs by TVS and two fingers have been presented to students of all ages, including poetry therapy classes at Columbine High School, at-risk youth treatment facilities and urban youth centers. TVS and two fingers have also presented at numerous elementary, junior high and high schools, graduate classes at Colorado State University and at performing arts schools in Connecticut and Massachusetts.

We are hoping you will find our program of interest and would be excited to talk with you about bringing TVS and two fingers to your school or facility.

	Purpose

The purpose of the Poets Out Loud! program is to inspire students of all ages to write poetry, play sound art and perform for an audience. This is accomplished by creating an encouraging and supportive atmosphere with a positive attitude. TVS and two fingers provide performance poetry and sound art instruction as well as a willingness to explore new ideas. The group maintains an adaptability that can only be the result of experience in a wide range of situations

The Poets Out Loud! program is not only meant to be fun, but it also fulfills learning objectives in a wide range of curriculums. These include English, Theatre and Music programs as well as Creative Writing, Public Speaking and Production Arts. The benefits include boosting self-esteem, learning to work with others, writing for personal expression and thinking outside the box.

	How it works...

TVS and two fingers custom design each program to the specific needs of each group. The basics of the program, however, remain the same. First, TVS and two fingers perform their original work in an introductory concert segment. The group then introduces the interactive process with "On a Moment's Notice," an activity where sound art instruments are demonstrated for the audience and word reactions are solicited. One member of the troupe then creates a poem on the spot using the suggestions. The new poem is performed for the audience immediately. The result is usually delight as audience members hear their own words in a new context.

Further, the members of TVS and two fingers lead workshop segments for specifically designated classes. These workshops concentrate on writing activities that encourage individual writing as well as group interaction. Often the group work becomes the basis for multi-voice performance pieces. TVS and two fingers also introduce the concepts of sound art and demonstrate a wide variety of instruments making a full palatte of sound.

Next, the group demonstrates the use of performance equipment, most notably a microphone with an amplifier. Then all these elements are tied together in practice. The desired conclusion of these sessions is a performance for peers and/or the general public. During performances, TVS and two fingers frequently ask for volunteers to act as guest sound artists. Between performing multi-voice poems and using sound art volunteers, TVS and two fingers attempts to use as many students in the final performance as possible.

	Performance/Workshop Highlights

Colorado: Columbine High School, Colorado State University, Parkview Elementary, Parkview Middle School, Early Learning Center, McGraw Elementary, Pioneer School, Fort Collins High School, Salida Middle School, Preston Junior High, Mesa County Library, Fort Collins Public Library, Lost and Found Boys Residential treatment Center, The Spot Urban Youth Center, Sparrows, Colorado's Performance Poetry Festival, Kidspree, Boys and Girls Club.

Wyoming: Laramie Community College, Lander Elementary, St. Stephens Indian School, Sheridan College, Highland Park High School, Laramie County Library System, Fulmer Public Library, Pine Bluff Public Library.

Connecticut: CES Middle School, Coleytown Elementary, Bassick High School.

Massachusetts: Pioneer Valley Performing Arts High School, Hilltown Elementary.

	Quote: Mary Lansing

"Parkview has had the pleasure of having TVS and two fingers present to our students on three separate occasions. The last visit to our school was a three-day artist-in-residence stay when they worked with all elementary and middle school students, and with our Destination Imagination teams more intensely. Their time culminated in a public performance, which was attended by a nearly full house- an audience full of fans and of those who heard of them through word of mouth. Our students have a better appreciation for rhyme, rhythm and the creative touch after spending time with these three wonderful creators/performers!"

Mary Lansing, Principal Parkview Elementary, Rangely, Colorado

	Performance Poetry and Sound Art Programs for All Ages

Kidspree, Denver, Colorado

	Classroom Visits

Westport, Connecticut

	Assemblies

Rangely, Colorado

	Festivals

Kidspree, Denver, Colorado

	Contact:

Mark J. Rosoff 970.482.8903 frisfirstaid@earthlink.com
Tim Van Schmidt 970.482.9473 timvs56@frii.com
Dave Zekman 970.498.0063 zekhills@juno.com