Wacky Waiters

The Wacky Waiters will make your event something special and unique! During your social hour, reception, or dinner event, our experienced entertainers initially appear to blend in with the wait staff–even wearing the same attire. Of course, they don’t act like any ordinary waiters. As the event progresses, their wacky interactive antics will slowly start to turn heads and the laughter will spread as your guests are entertained on a table-by-table basis. The true skill in their hilarious presentation is how well the Wacky Waiters serve up laughs while remaining respectful of the dining experience. When the comic imposter is finally revealed, the whole audience is in on the joke and will be talking about this unique entertainment experience for days!

The Wacky Waiters are also available to offer a full stage show filled with physical comedy following the served dinner or social hour.

A communications graduate of Augsburg College in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Aaron has been a quadriplegic since May 1991 when he was injured in a bicycle race. Almost one year to the day of his accident, Aaron began participating in national and international wheelchair sporting events including archery, wheelchair racing and quad rugby.

What is more important, Aaron competed in the 1996 Paralympic Games in Atlanta, Ga., where he set a world record in the ranking round and came in fourth over all in the archery competition, explaining, “You can’t win them all.”

Since 1996 Aaron has competed in eight World Championships and three Paralympics games.  Deciding to retire from international archery competition after the 2004 Paralympic games in Athens, Greece, Aaron vowed to finish his career on top. September 23, 2004, he and his teammates shot their way to the Bronze medal; the first team medal for the U.S. Paralympic Archery Team ever.

One for always trying and accomplishing goals, Aaron has even trained with and completed a U.S. Navy SEAL Adventure Challenge; the only one in a wheelchair ever to attempt and make it the full 24 hours.

Power packed and full of unforgettable motivation and inspiration, Aaron Cross is the speaker for your group.

What people are saying about Aaron Cross:

“Wow, Amazing, Awesome (Student’s reaction) Wonderful! Great program! (Faculty response)

– Medicine Lake High School, Medicine Lake, MT

“It was the best assembly we have ever had!”

–Adams Edmore School, Edmore, ND

“To whom it may concern:  I would like to express how superb Aaron’s presentation, “FOCUS on YOUR TARGET,” was for our school. The students and staff all enjoyed the message Aaron had to share.”

–Maddock Public School, Maddock, ND

“Unbelievable, what a message of strength and power; by the way I think you’re nuts for doing the Navy SEAL Challenge; but what a show of strength and perseverance.”

–Wells Fargo Mortgage

Biography

Top ten places I have spoke: They are all tremendous, but one of the most memorable was speaking to 35,000 students at the ELCA National Youth Conference in St. Louis, MO

What’s the best thing about being a performer? “Having someone come up to you and say, ‘Aren’t you Aaron Cross the speaker? You came to my school, you came and spoke at the conference last year; man, you were fantastic.’ Another great aspect that I live for, being on the road, being in another city, another stage sometimes three times a day. Meeting all the awesome people, knowing that they are here to hear me speak.”

Technical rider:

In order to give you the best performance possible, Aaron provides the following information as a technical rider to his contract:

Artist requests:

• Ramp or lift (if not available, assistance for getting on and off stage)
• 30’ or larger stage, can do it in less space; but easier with distance
• Large screen projection system DVD capable or multiple TV systems hooked to on DVD player
• One (1) small table, i.e. desk or small dinner table 3’ high, no higher than 4’.
• Fun audiences

Sample Introduction

When Aaron Cross traded his 10-speed for a four-wheeler, it wasn’t an all-terrain vehicle — it was a wheelchair. According to his friends, the chair is a character builder that allows him to push himself to the limits.

Aaron Cross has pushed, crawled, shot and even puked his way to what most people would call their limits. Our speaker today is here to say, by focusing on your target, limits are only in your mind’s eye.

Ladies and Gentlemen, here is Aaron Cross and “FOCUS on YOUR TARGET.”

Click here to view the embedded video.

Bingo Fever

The laughter’s contagious when you catch Bingo Fever!  Leonard and Phyllis Gunderson guide you through this interactive, improv game show complete with audience participation.  That’s right, you’re not going to just watch the show, you’ll be in it!

The show is customized with material written and performed for each show based on the information YOU provide them about your group.  You’ll play bingo and have the opportunity to win less than fabulous prizes, all the while being a part of Leonard and Phyllis’s down home Minnesotan humor.  If you say too much, you may become the target of their snappy improv.  Continue to say too much and you may get pulled up on stage as part of their crazy and unpredictable antics.  In other words… nobody’s safe (including the boss)!

Biography

Leonard and Phyllis aren’t their real names, but this duo epitomizes everything a middle-aged married couple from Minnesota is all about.  Played by a real- life married couple, the duo brings strong improv skills and a rich performance background that makes Leonard and Phyllis all too real.

With more than 15 years of professional entertainment experience each, their credits are lengthy.  In addition to numerous stage productions, their background also includes a musical comedy show in Las Vegas, TV and radio commercials, and stand-up comedy.  Having performed with nationally-recognized comedians, they understand what it takes to deliver an all-star performance every time.

What people are saying

“I’ve been coming to these holiday parties for over 25 years and this was the best show ever!”

–Verso Paper

“Amazing performance!  It’s incredible how quick the improv is!  And it’s not just quick, it’s really funny too!  I’d highly recommend them to anyone!”

–Cold Spring Firefighters Association

“I loved how they took the time to personalize the performance for us.  We gave them information about our group and they worked all of it into the show.  They even did a little “roast” on our boss that was totally awesome!”

–ING Direct

Technical rider

While the Bingo Fever show comes complete with all sound, staging, and prizes, the final details regarding sound or staging will be completed and based upon each specific venue at the time of the booking.

Over the years we have often gotten requests from clients looking for Dueling Pianos as an option for the entertainment portion of their event.  Unfortunately, most of the Dueling Piano acts we checked out are just way too offensive for us to attach our name to and contract with our clients.  A few others are very talented – but are priced excessively high and again do not present a good option and value for our clients.  The good news is we now have an excellent option to offer featuring two guys who know how to lead people through a fun night of singing and playing and just enjoying the moment.

G.L. Berg Entertainment’s Dueling Pianos is a great option for you to consider.  Prices range from $1,500.00 to $2,500.00 plus rooms and these experienced pros also bring their own sound and keyboards to make it a turn-key event.

What People Are Saying:

“We had so much fun when they performed at our Fall conference we need to have them back for our Winter one.  Please call me and lets lock them in.”
–Aging Services of Minnesota

“They were really well received and great to work with.  Their performance was truly a success!”
–Blattner Energy

Click here to view the embedded video.

"The Power of Good Manners" with Kenny Ahern

Kenny Ahern has performed for thousands of school children worldwide!

The POWER of Good Manners! A 45-minute K-5 edutainment presentation, that heralds the importance of good manners in school and life! Character virtues are not just words—they are a call to action!

This presentation and supplemental resource materials were developed through consultation with educational professionals. Students learn the main points of Kenny’s show: Respect for All; Asking for Help is Good; Making The Right Choices; Pleases & Thank Yous are important.

Specific to grade level: The suggested grade level split is K-2 and 3-5. The presentation material content is specific to these grade level splits.

Reinforce your Character Education programming: Your character education programming highlights can be incorporated into the presentation.

“I’m all about creating an honest message and a fun, relevant presentation.” – Kenny Ahern

TECHNICAL: Sound, props and set are all provided.

ALSO AVAILABLE:  Family Night Performance, “PAJAMARAMA!” A 60-minute “Family Night” Show. Families are encouraged to wear their pajamas and bring blankets to the show!  Motivation Through Clown Antics 1-2 day residency and performance

What Educators Say…

“ Your emphasis on pleases, thank yous, and the ability to ask for help was a natural progression for development of the “B.O.A.T. Rules” The teachers from Pre-K through 5th grade have each expressed admiration for the quality of your skills, ability to interact with the students, and the near magical manner that you communicate with a participant . You are, indeed, a teacher at heart!”
–Brandon Elementary School

“The kids were very engaged in the program, and understood the importance of good manners by the end of the show. The kids absolutely loved the way you got them involved with the show. Three weeks after the show, I am still hearing students talk about “The Power of Good Manners.”
–Principal, Humke Elementary School

“Kenny Ahern is a wonderful performer and really engaged our students Kindergarten through grade 6 in his performance. His program may well be the best I’ve personally seen. It would be nice if all lyceums were as educational, fun and entertaining as this was.”
–Principal, Colfax Elementary School

“Kenny absolutely tops my list of favorites. He’s professional and easy to work with, and most importantly, the kids think he’s a blast. He just knows exactly what to do to make them laugh. I always look forward to his visits!”
–Children’s Director, LE Phillips Memorial Public Library

“Your performance captivated the audience, students and teachers alike, Your positive message made a deep impression on the students. Thank you for your generosity, It was greatly appreciated by all of us.”
–Principal, Moundview Elementary School

About Kenny Ahern:

It all started in 1983, when a college professor suggested that Kenny audition for Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus, and write a research paper about the experience. That was 25 years and thousands of performances ago.

Kenny has taken master classes in physical comedy with Broadway star and Tony Award recipient, Bill Irwin and Yale School of Drama faculty head Christopher Bayes. He studied with Pavel Groditsky of The Soviet National School for the Circus and Variety Arts (movement workshop) and trained at Ringling Brothers & Barnum and Bailey Clown College—receiving a BFA (Bachelor in Fun Arts).

An accomplished educator, Kenny has been a faculty member with Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Clown College, The University of Wisconsin—La Crosse’s Clown Camp®. He has guest lectured for the the drama departments of The University of Virginia and The DePaul University, and presented workshops for The University of Minnesota/Guthrie Theater B.F.A. Actor Training Program.

A Few Performances of Note: Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus; The China International Children Arts Festival—Taipei, Taiwan; Variete Theatre Festival—Singapore; The 2005 World Expo—Aichi, Japan; The Disneyland Grand Ballroom Theatre; The Moscow Circus School—Moscow, Russia; The White House; The WI, IA, MN, OH, UT, MO and SC State Fairs. And … presentations to thousands of elementary school children worldwide!

InPulse, Vocal Band

InPulse creates a powerful sound that features stunning solos, exceptional harmonic blend, and driving rhythms.   Their performances showcase the beauty and versatility of the human voice, drawing from virtually every genre of music – from Pop to Rock, Country to Hip-Hop, and Jazz to R&B.  InPulse plays an active part in the evolution of a cappella music through dynamic, original compositions and inventive arrangements of songs distinctive to the InPulse sound. The group’s artistic approach leaves little confusion as to their mission:  To take the “vocal band” sound into mainstream popular music and bring genuine musical artistry to today’s pop culture.

InPulse has sold over 40,000 copies of their recordings including debut album “Alone and Above” and holiday album, “Shed a Little Light.”  Both albums received nominations for Album of the Year by the Contemporary A Cappella Society of America.  The band released its third album, “InPulse: Live,” in December of 2006.  InPulse showcases its talent across the nation, maintaining a rigorous touring schedule of concert halls, colleges & universities, fairs & festivals, community, and private events.  In addition, InPulse runs its own highly-acclaimed Educational Outreach Program which brings them to schools across the country as advocates for vocal music and lifelong arts involvement.  As educators, InPulse has served as Guest Artist/Clinicians at the 2007 East Coast A Cappella Summit in Washington DC, the 2007 Ohio-ACDA Conference, in Columbus, OH and as faculty at the International Music Camp.

What People Are Saying:

“InPulse was the highlight of our annual donor dinner.   They brought our donors to their feet!”
–The Saint Paul Foundation – St. Paul, MN

“We are so impressed with the way InPulse combined its quality musicianship with positive energy.  The guys are fun, professional, and are extremely talented!  They definitely added a wonderful flavor to our annual banquet.”
–Jacob Wetterling Foundation – Minneapolis, MN

“What a treat! You guys are great musicians, great people and easy to work with.  Your ability to relate to audiences of all ages is truly amazing.  I plan on bringing you back to Grand Forks for years to come.”
–Chester Fritz Auditorium – Grand Forks, ND

“On a night when it was almost 30 below, InPulse drew a near-capacity crowd and the proceeded to put on one of the most entertaining shows our community has ever seen. They definitely turned up the heat on a cold night.”
–Historic Holmes Theater – Detroit Lakes, MN

“InPulse ROCKS! We hosted them in Alexandria, MN and they worked with our three high school choirs, along with giving an excellent (sold-out) public performance for our community!  InPulse brought one of the most exciting and interesting shows ever I’ve experienced here…they absolutely rocked our face off and were an instant hit.  What is unique and rather idiosyncratic about the group is the vocal percussionist.  Our students were in awe and disbelief over his abilities to drum with his mouth.  I can’t decide what was more remarkable about InPulse – how awesome they sounded as a group, or how fun it was to simply get to know them.  I strongly recommend that everybody learn more about this amazing group!”
–Jefferson Senior High School – Alexandria, MN

Technical Rider:

InPulse prides itself on being easy to work with while also providing a musical and entertainment experience of the highest quality. The band has very few necessities that need to be met to ensure the best possible show for its clients.

As part of the purchase price of the feature performance, InPulse will provide ALL of its own state-of-the-art sound system/PA, mic stands, stools and stage pieces.  This system is capable of amply filling a venue of approximately 2,000 seats at full concert volume.  Their only needs are as follows:

• Performance Stage will be a minimum of 16 feet wide by 10 feet deep and the stage shall be clean and in good order.
• One dedicated circuit with 2 non-G.F.C.I. (standard 3-prong) outlets.  Located a maximum of 50 feet from the stage.
• InPulse highly prefers access to the venue three (3) hours before the venue doors open for seating.

Additional needs can be discussed when contracting the artist.

Sample Introduction

Although they make their home in Minnesota, the members of InPulse came together from all across the globe to create a mind-blowing kaleidoscope of music using only their mouths and microphones. Their amazing “Vocal Band” sound covers all styles of music from classic rock to country, and modern pop to R&B, making them the perfect show for the whole family. Over the last 5 years, they have performed at hundreds of college campuses, theaters, fairs and festivals.  They have opened for headliners like Grand Funk Railroad, Credence Clearwater, and Huey Lewis and the News. Please give a warm welcome to InPulse!!

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Cirko Cabaret

Cirko Cabaret, a production of the Xelias! Aerial Arts Performance Company, i s anon-stop show of wonder, beauty, art, and fun!  This cirque-style show is specifically designed to be able to work in both theater and non-theater settings – the perfect formula for a successful event, no matter your facility!

Bring the intimacy of circus cabaret to your next event!

Cirko Cabaret includes the following entertainment styles:

- The Balance Boys

- The Revolving Hoop

- Aerialists

- Hoola Hoops

- Juggling

- Acrobatics

- and more!

Fast Facts About Xelias!

Meg Elias-Emery is the Founder and Director of Xelias Aerial Arts Studio where in addition to coaching aspiring aerialists, she creates performance pieces along with her aerial company members. Meg‘s interest in aerial arts has taken her around the world in over two decades of performing, teaching and choreographing. Most recently she completed the circle by bringing her daughter Aerial, along with other Xelias Aerial Arts families, back to her roots in San Francisco for the American Youth Circus Organization to perform and train.

A veteran artist of cruise ships, fairs, festivals, theaters and corporate work, Meg has also participated in performance art experiences in New York City, San Francisco and Minneapolis, as well as spending three years performing with Ringling Bros. and Barnum and Baileys Circus where she met her husband, Sean the “Clown”. For the past five years Meg has taught circus arts at the University of Minnesota/Guthrie Theater B.F.A. Actor Training Program.

When not creating or coaching with Xelias, Meg can be found having backyard campfires with husband Sean or driving daughter Aerial to rhythmic gymnastics classes way over in Minnetonka!

Technical Needs:

Cirko Cabaret is a feature show that combines many elements of cirque-style sets and is adaptable to meet the needs of your venue.   Should your venue not have the ability to accommodate the flying aerialists, other cirque-style performers will be substituted in order to maintain the full-length show within the facility space that is available.

If you would like to include the aerialist portion of the show, a ceiling height of 20-30 feet is ideal.   If the ability to rig to open beams or trusses is not available, a free-standing rigging framework can be provided.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Bring back the excitement of a drive-in movie! Or, perhaps you would like to have a “Dive-In” located poolside! Whatever the environment, the BIG SCREEN is an excellent choice for entertaining your audience.

All packages include:

• Travel

• DLP Digital Projector

• Inflatable Movie Screen (size dependant on package)

• 300 Watt Sound System

• All necessary cables and hardware

• Audio/Video Technician On Site

Discounts for multiple dates or event series.

MOVIE RIGHTS

In accordance with US Copyright Law, you are required to obtain legal rights to show movies at your event.
Movie selection and advertising restrictions may apply.
For detailed information about film licensing, please contact:

Swank Motion Pictures, Inc.
Criterion, USA

Technical Rider:

• If weather forecasts are ominous, you may change your date before travel or setup occurs, at no extra charge. We will put your deposit towards the re-scheduled event date.
• We recommend having a rain site location in the event of inclement weather.
• Electrical outlets must be available for the inflatable screen, sound system, and projector. Generators may be available for additional fees.
• Setup requires 3-4 people to assist with the screen. Please arrange to have staff or volunteers available during setup.

Good Time Charlie

Good Time Charlie and his fabulous feet

A man of a thousand songs in many genres of music, Charlie will bring his good spirit and expertise at when to play just the right song for the moment — whether it is ambiance to a conversation at a group dinner, an after dinner show with joke songs and hilarious parodies, or getting folks to sing along at a campfire or company cocktail hour with chestnuts from the past.  Charlie plays stomp box and tambourine with his fabulous feet, guitar, rack harmonica, kazoo, and sings with a rich baritone voice all simultaneously; it’s very pleasing to the ear. As a veteran entertainer and longtime dance band leader, Charlie learned the art of being the life of the party, a perfect fit for most any event he is always Professional, Flexible, and Fun.

Good Time Charlie and his fabulous friends

Charlie can add from one to three additional top-notch musicians to bring just the right sound and style to match the theme and budget of your dance or dinner. Charlie is also a prolific and accomplished songwriter who has released five CDs of his own original music drawing from his roots in rock, classic country, folk, blues, calypso, reggae, Cajun and Irish music.

GOOD MUSIC is what I play and that comes in many styles. My song list will always be a mix of songs you know and some you don’t mixing rock, country, blues, folk, humorous songs and heartfelt ballads.  I just try to be myself and play songs that I like and I think most people can tell that I really enjoy what I do and respond to that honest good time feeling that is presented. I also always try to play from my heart and sing from my soul. –Good Time Charlie Roth

What people are saying:

“Thank you for another memorable evening at our annual manager’s conference. For many years, Good Time Charlie and his Fabulous Friends have been an important part of our “up north” offsite.  They have become a traditional piece of our meeting and our culture. Charlie can sing, play guitar, harmonica, and drums with his feet all simultaneously…the whole band is Amazing! We look forward to another memorable event next year (we already have you booked!)”.
-General Mills Yoplait Division

“You know the name Good Time Charlie?  Well, I not only know him, I’ve danced myself silly to his amazing talent many times. As a solo act, Charlie is a guaranteed crowd pleaser, with unique takes on famous songs as well as original tunes that are every bit as good.  He ranges from heart rending ballads to foot stomping romps.  And when he rocks out in a group with his fabulous friends, it’s a treat no one will want to miss.  If it’s good times and great music you’re looking for, Charlie is your man.”
-Saatche & Saatche New York, NY

“Our meeting was successful, thanks in part to the entertainment of Good Time Charlie!  He did a wonderful job playing music that suited our crowd.  Before the evening was over, we had requests to purchase his cd!  We have already received some positive feedback from our members.  Charlie was a joy to work with.  He was very professional yet very down to earth and friendly.”
- United Electric Cooperative, Maryville, MO

“Tim, Charlie was perfect for our 50th Anniversary Celebration festivities.  Good suggestion.”
- Brown Printing Company, Waseca, MN

“A good time was had by all…very neat, polite, good musician and fun to be entertained by, and easy to work with, very accommodating.”
-Big Gain, Inc.

“Gary, Charlie did an excellent job of gearing his performance to the crowd…What a blast!…Everyone there had a great time and we just wanted you to know.”
-Mauston Area Chamber of Commerce

Technical rider:

Charlie usually travels by car and trailer with a modest state of the art Bose sound system and portable light show. The technical requirements will vary according to size of the audience, travel arrangements and which ensemble is chosen (solo, duo, trio or quartet). Specific details may be discussed when contracting this artist.

Sample introduction:

The following is a sample introduction you might use when introducing Charlie Roth to your audience:

Good Time Charlie has been entertaining audiences with his great mix of musical styles for over 25 years.  With original songs, sing along classics, wit and humor, Charlie has charmed audiences from coast to coast. A prolific songwriter with 5 CDs to his credit and a veteran entertainer he takes pleasure in his work at just plain making folks happy…please welcome Good Time Charlie and his fabulous feet! (and/or fabulous friends as the case may be).

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Tyzen - Master of Suggestion

Tyzen is one of the world’s most amazing Comedic Stage Hypnotists.  He combines comedy and hypnosis in a way like no other.  His hilarious antics will have any audience rolling in the aisles with laughter — giggity, giggity…alllllright!

Expect your audience to be on the edge of their seats!  Watch as they witness a high energy thrill ride that will bring them coming back for more!

Whether your venue consists of children, adults, grandparents, or pets (please leave your dingos at home), Tyzen will entertain them all.  YES…he’s that funny!

Fast Facts about Tyzen:

Tyzen began his career as an entertainer at the young age of 15, when one fateful day he caught his first glimpse of the wonders of David Copperfield’s magic on television.  He was mesmerized and vowed to learn everything ne could about the art of illusion and magic.  Tyzen also has a background in Improv Comedy, making his magic unique and entertaining.  When he perfected his skill, he began traveling North America, mystifying audiences everywhere he went.

Through a series of cascading events, Tyzen discovered the intriguing world of hypnosis and he knew that he had found his destiny.  Comedy, hypnosis, and magic combined?  OHH YEAH!!  He simply amalgamated his skills in to what is now one of the most hilarious shows ever!

Tyzen’s continuing ability to be fresh and responsive combined with a contagious sense of humor and an innate talent have quickly catapulted him into popularity.  Tyzen has performed across the United States and Canada entertaining audiences of all ages and sizes.  He performs at colleges, fairs, exhibitions, corporate events, casinos, nightclubs, and even the odd Bar Mitzvahs.

Tyzen currently resies in Las Vegas, NV and shares his life with his feisty Beta fighting fish Nemo.

What People Are Saying:

“Tyzen was talked about among fair-goers as a ‘must see’ event.  His professionalism, personality, and wit appealed to audiences of all ages.  The audience was always involved in the entertainment, making them wish that the show did not end.”
–Montgomery Agricultural County Fair

“Not only is he the professional entertainment, he also brings the fun!”
–Canyon County Fair

“We appreciate [Tyzen's] ability to entertain all ages of fairgoers;  He kept the audience enthralled every minute of every show.   Tyzen is truly hilarious!  I would highly recommend this show to anyone looking for a high energy hypnotist!”
–Utah State Fair

“Tyzen is fun, energetic, and hip.  I saw him perform at another fair and knew we had to have him too!”
–L. A. County Fair

“Tyzen’s hilarious show was a welcome attraction to the Colorado State Fair and Rodeo.  His performance was enjoyed by audiences of all ages and we would HIGHLY recommend him for any event.  We had families young and old that came back every night just to see his show.”
–Colorado State Fair

“Tyzen is unbelievably talented and great to work with.  He is hysterical both onstage and off, and kept my staff in stitches and our audiences loved him!  He is always professional, and keeps his shows family-friendly.  We look forward to having him entertain our fairgoers for years to come!”
–San Bernardino County Fair

Click here to view the embedded video.