Testimonials

 

Wanted to send you a big Kudos, Thank you, and Great Job for an awesome show! Your energy was enthusiastic and amazing and we truly appreciated and admired your talents and energy and look forward to another twelve weeks with you (if you'll take us). We were a bit apprehensive as the only talent we ever saw beforehand was Crystal whose talents are beyond amazing! Thank you for being such a great person, teacher, and mentor!!! We love you and your talents, Richard! 

- Kaila, Deirdra, Mary & Whitey Day!!!!
 

Dan, As busy as my life gets I want you to know that I am never too busy to notice when someone touches the life of a child in a way that makes their world better. I believe that one person can change the world and make it a better place, and I believe that begins by touching and changing one life at a time. As you know, Dan, I work at a home for abused and neglected kids, and my heart melts on a regular basis as I watch these kids' lives get changed for the better because they now have at least one person who cares and invests in them. As a result, their lives are transformed. In my book and in my heart, Dan, you are an angel, using the talents God gave you everyday to make this world a better place for so many kids, including mine. Please keep up the great work!

-Cheryl Murphy

Thank-You for a Great Spring! I have learned so much from you!

-Sarah Broj, Age 14 

Thanks for much for another wonderful camp! Woody loves it so much. He was so happy when he got his part and I will never forget it! I can not express enough our gratitude to you and this camp and I hope you know how much we love you & it! Thanks again!! 

- Tony, Lisa & Woody Orions

Thanks for all of your hardwork through the six week summer camp. It turned out great and i had a lot of fun! I am so glad to see you all again! I would be bored to death if i sat home all summer and did nothing. Artreach is a good way to spend my time! Thank you all for ur hard work. Bye for now! See you all Monday!

- Breton Spiller

Joe and I loved your production of Annie. I can't even explain how impressed I was with everything from the acting, singing, costumes and props. Amazing!

- Christina Wurl

Dan, I am saying this from both my heart and I know Steven's as well, thank you for everything you do and for making our boys feel happy, filled with more confidence and wanting for more (ArtReach that is). Speak with you soon.

- Gayle Curl 

Thank you all for making this whole production fun! I was so excited when my mom said i could come because i could never be away from my favorite instructors!  I also would like to thank Dan because he worked so hard on this whole production of Annie! I also would like to thank Dana and Larry for making back stage times so much fun. They would laugh and talk about random stuff that always happened to be funny. Last but not least, i thank Lin, Linda, Robert, and Peter because without them we wouldn't have had any of the lovely dances in Annie. I can't wait to see all of you again!

- Breton Spiller 

Saw the show with my two daughters tonight. Great job! Kudos to Gabriella and Troy, great voices. Sharpay is quite an actress. I personally loved the actor who did the school announcements, the "velvet fog". Great show, we look forward to seeing Grease!

- The Franke Family

Grease Cast - You did a fabulous job! You were swamped with autographs and the public, so I didn't get a chance to say "Hi" and "Great Job". You made an awesome Danny, Dan. The Cast was just AWESOME! We truly enjoyed it.

- Sandi Johnson and Family

Dear Dan - A BIG Thanks from the Clarisse Family. You are an inspiration! Your drive, passion and commitment to the kids and this program is a gift for us all. Nicolas has really grown over the past year through ArtReach. I am so grateful.

- Diana & Oliver Clarisse

 
Thank you for the great class that Nicolas experienced this fall.  I saw how much he grew from when he did his summer performance till the one he did this past Tuesday.  I so appreciate your guidance, mentoring, coaching, talent and confidence building that you gave to Nicolas.  I know it will benefit him his whole life.  We can't wait to start the Winter Art Series!

- Diana Clarisse
 

I didn't get a chance to talk to you after the show last night and wanted to send a note to say THANK YOU for another great workshop and show! Sarah had a terrific time and it was wonderful to see all of the kids performing on Saturday. You and your team have helped Sarah discover and develop talents that will serve her well throughout her life, no matter what path she takes. ArtReach is about so much more than acting, singing, and dancing. My experience has always been that the performing arts groups that I have been involved with have been the most welcoming communities in my life and I'm grateful that my kids have found ArtReach so they can experience that sense of belonging, acceptance, and community as they are growing up. 

- Pam Rosenberg

I want to thank you for being such a wonderful voice teacher. You offer Melissa such a great learning experience. You teach her new things all the time – while offering the inspiration and support she needs to do her best.  I was brought to tears this weekend – as she stood in front of hundreds of people – TWICE – and sang the National Anthem like it was nothing. She got so many compliments – even from people we did not know.  She had every right to feel proud of herself (I know I was very proud of her!!).

- Melissa Baumann
 

I just wanted to thank you for such a rewarding summer camp experience for our kids.  They had such a great time and loved learning new things to add to there fun this summer. Your so great with the kids and always find there special talents
in each one of them individually. You are truly a mentor for these kids lives. I
hope you know how much we appreciate this as there parents.

- Sandra Hoadley
 

ArtReach is  my home-away-from-home, and It'll always be that way. Thanks for making ArtReach such a great environment, I've learned so much, and yet I know so little about theatre. Well, I'll continue to grow through your program and enjoy the laughs and tears along the way!  Thanks for everything!

- Ian Hoffman
 

Zack got the part of Jo-Jo the boy in "Seussical" with the Schaumburg Park District this fall.  I am so proud of him and wanted you to know that if it weren't for you and your faculty, he probably wouldn't be doing this.  Zack had so much fun and learned a lot while studying with ArtReach.  When I watched "Emperor" this summer, I couldn't get over the difference in Zack as a performer.  This is because of your program and you should be proud of the difference you are making in all of the children you instruct.

- Ruth Wallin
 

Alex had a WONDERFUL experience with ART Reach.  As a first timer to the programer and the theatre we were thrilled.  I really believe she took so much away from the experience and from all of you.  It was a GREAT show and we all loved it.

- Stephanie Howard
 

I think you all did a terrific job with Fiddler On The Roof.  That was
Michael's first ArtReach Spring Workshop.  I have seen the movie Fiddler On
The Roof many times and have seen it performed on stage by professional
actors and actresses.  Your stage sets, direction, script, songs, acting,
etc... where right on!!!!!  It was a magical moment for me to see Michael
leaning against the rail joining in with the other kids singing, laughing,
and really enjoying himself.  I will be forever grateful that I found your
group and that you as a team of teachers and professional performers gave
Michael the opportunity to have this experience.

- Patty Egan
 

You are the coolest, nicest and good hearted director I am sure will ever have in my whole life! Thanks for all the cool experiences and parts I have  had. You showed me how to sing, act and dance! Now I can show others what I've got and maybe learn more from them. Thank YOU, Dan, for everything and I hope to be great friends forever and ever!           

- Morgan Moodhe
 

I have to tell you how much the kids loved the Tuesday night classes.  Both of them could not wait each week to attend.  Then, when we saw the results - Rich and I were so amazed at their performances!   I cannot tell you  how impressed we were with all the kids and their abilities.  Of course we are partial to our own - and their growth  - but really ALL of them were outstanding and showing true talent!  These are truly great instructors and you are doing a great job in choosing the right people to work with these kids.  Thank you for this wonderful opportunity!

- Cindy Hoffman
 

You really pulled it off!  I attended 3 of the delightful performances.  I was surprised at the consistent excellence of each show.   I witnessed the last minutes jitters and frenzy of rehearsal--your professionality and focus were evident in the results.  Be very proud of the work you did in your performance and guidance given to the children.  Our daughter Kera was enthusiastically, compliant and energetic about the workshop to completion.  It meant a great deal to us that she was so charged up about participating.  She is anxious to return!  Our friends and family members loved the show.   Larry was especially amazing--WOW! 

- The Clabots Clan
 

You should know, Carly was thrilled with last night! She couldn't stop talking about how much she loved it!  So, whatever you "said" to her, keep it up! She must be one of those kids that loves the adrenaline rush at crunch time.  Thanks for all your time and dedication, and to the inspiring group of people working with you. When I see Carly this thrilled about what is going on in her life, it just doesn't get any better than that.

- Shauna
 

Thanks again- Just wanted you to know that Breton said on her way home last night that ArtReach is heaven to her. She is counting down the days until the workshop begins. Thanks for all you and your staff do to bring the arts to kids in such a fun, positive way.

- Jeanne
 

my girls Taylore & Nicolette loved every minute of the play.  This, by far was the most enjoyable and well performed play.  You are doing a fantastic job, everyone works really hard and it shows.  Tay will be coming back in the fall and can't wait. GREAT JOB.  

- Julie Schaefges
 

Thank you for offering such a wonderful program!  Artreach has really made her life so much happier. 

 - Nicole Turner
 

The girls have been having a fantastic time this summer and are looking forward to the show.   It's been a great growing experience for them and we are so thankful that they enjoy it. 

- Bonnie
 

I thought Godspell was wonderful! You and all the other Artreach instructers were amazing!!! The fall workshop is going GREAT! My school play is this week. The instructions you taught me over the summer helped me out alot with the play. I am so glad I am a part of your program. Have a great week.

- Amanda
 

Might I just say on behalf of St. Paul UCC that play was absolutely wonderful and IF I knew how to spell phenomenol I would use that word instead.....Thank you and have a nice day.

- Mary
 

Your energy and dedication to the kids in this program is really admirable

- Julie Koerner
 

Great job on all of the shows - you should be proud!  One other thing. As I watched Dan during one of the performances sing "Put on a Happy Face". I thought that should be his theme song. That's what he's done for Sean, and I'm sure for many other kids. Sean loves ArtReach and the staff is fantastic. Thank you so very much. He can't wait for summer camp! Again, congratulations on another great production, and here's to many more!

- Larry and Judy King
 

We are still recovering from Bye Bye ! Our 3 year old can sing every song! She was at the show all three nights and was entertaining the audience with her own production! Ian and Brynn want to do both classes for the Summer Arts Series. The show was outstanding and all of our guests were thrilled! Thanks for guiding these kids in such a positive and professional manner!

 - Cindy Hoffman
 

Carly had a great time participating in your program this spring. She will definitely be joining again for another production, although, this summer we have opted for the Tuesday night program.  Thanks for all your support and encouragement for the past 12 weeks, you and the rest of the Art Reach teachers really made a big impact on Carly. Our family has enjoyed the experience also. Carly sends you all yet another one of her "hugs"

- Shauna Wellman
 

I want to commend the production of Bye Bye Birdie. It was totally enjoyable and both you and Jaime were outstanding as was the rest of the cast especially the children. I like to support the efforts of those who work with my daughter. We brought a group of six out on opening night. Congratulations on a fabulous show.

- Julie Noigebauer
 

You did a fantastic job with the children. You and the actors should be very proud of what they learned in just 12 weeks. Taylore loved every minute of it and the show was great. She'll definitely be back in the fall as THIS IS TAYLORE, UP ON THE STAGE WITH THAT SMILE...thank you for all the joy you've given Taylore this past Spring.

- Julie
 

Let me just tell you how impressed I was with the Bye Bye Birdie play. The mixture of the kids with the adults was absolutely wonderful. I was so very impressed. Amanda would walk around the house, singing and reciting lines and she was so into this play.

Thank you again for all you have done. Amanda is definitely a better person because of you and ArtReach.  Also, please forward my kudos to the people in the play. They were wonderful. Every one of them were just perfect for the part they played.  Lastly, let me tell you something I learned about you!  You are a wonderful singer. I never realized just how good you were, I knew you were good, but you have a wonderful voice. I was very impressed.

- Mary Faust
 

We need more people like you, that can bring the arts and influence our young children in a positive way.  Thank you for all you and your group does.

 - Wanda Lee Farnell
 

I keep meaning to thank you for an incredible experience on Bec’s part. She thoroughly enjoyed herself and is still talking about camp. We are trying to figure out her schedule to see if she can comfortably squeeze in your upcoming program. She hopes to be able to do it, we will let you know.  Thanks for everything.

- Lisa Goesling
 

We really appreciate all of your hard work and dedication and feel we really got more than our money's worth. You have been an inspiration to our son who was thrilled to be performing for an audience. It is really quite amazing what was accomplished in such short time! We're happy our son had such a learning experience and the production was absolutely wonderful! Hats off to you!
 

- The Gallegos Family
 

Dan, you need to know that I appreciate you and respect the work you do and the ability to work with children in such a truly loving and caring way. There aren't too many men out there willing to take the time & have the patience as you do. I feel blessed that you are and have been in my son's lives. Every child could really learn a tremendous amount of love and compassion from you. Thank you.

- Candie Lobdell
 

I wanted to let you know her teachers have asked me what the change has been in her the last few weeks because she appears more confident and I just smiled and replied "Dan and ArtReach!"   Thank you Dan, you mean more to this family then words can say!

- Mary Faust
 

While Lauren was in your classes she had a TREMENDOUS time and it will always be something that she will remember for the rest of her life. I only hope that here in Texas we eventually find some type of program that comes close to yours, but I highly doubt it.  Your staff was wonderful to Lauren and she learned a lot. You helped a little shy girl come out of her shell and really express herself through song and dance and I thank you for that.

- Lynn Knepper
 

I also wanted to let you know how much Melissa is enjoying her voice lessons.  Not only is she improving on her singing -- but there has also been an improvement in her confidence overall in many aspects of her life.  Thank you.

 - Melissa Baumann
 

My Husband John and I wanted to thank you for providing such a wonderful experience to our son, Jake.  I can tell you that since this session began there has been not one complaint about spending Saturdays with ArtReach.  Actually, just the opposite...he has been eager and excited each session.  That speaks volumes to us. As he says, "You Guys Rock!"

- Peggy Babcock
 

Just wanted to tell you that I am Shaina's grandmother and I have been having so much fun looking at your ArtReach Educational Theatre site.  I will surely be there when the kids put on their next performance as Karen will surely tell me more about it and Shaina never stops talking about it.
 

- Deena Barnett
 

You certainly are a sincere and dedicated communicator. Thank you for your responses. It says a lot about your character.   Just wanted to say congratulations on a wonderful performance!  Children of Eden was fantastic! You were fantastic!  The entire cast was super!  The music, singing and dancing and acting all thrilling.   Nice to meet your wonderful entourage of good hard working people.  Glad I could be a part of it.  Margaret enjoys the new challenge. 

- Kathleen Luxem
 

Artreach is awesome.  I have met people that are so talented and so great. I have met so many friends that I hope will be around for the rest of my life. I am so very grateful for all Artreach has done for me. So thanks to Dan and the Artreach staff for so many amazing things. I'll be back next time!   

-Allison Mory
 

My daughter is on the road to recovery, her spirit seems to be coming back and her mouth also is getting better, I heard her practicing and she sounded great; actually better then before I think she has had a lot of rest in the vocal area.  She needs the confidence she gets from you  again

- Joni Tucker
 

Just wanted to let you know how VERY TRULY IMPRESSED I was with CHILDREN OF EDEN and with your creativity, talent, and energy for putting it all together.  Wow.  I was stunned by it all - this was no simple production and certainly monumental when dealing with so many children.  Those kids had their moves down perfectly!  The youngest one had to be what - 5??  Your adult cast was great too! I'm SO glad I came to the show as I was I was genuinely entertained and had a great time.

- Tony Halford
 

Just a quick note to tell you I think you are doing a fantastic job! Jessica is loving everything you are doing with the kids, she is singing the songs at night and earlier, she was writing down the dance steps you taught the first 2 weeks of camp!

- Michelle Pitts
 

Thanks for e-mailing me back so quickly. Dan you are a treasure to all of us! I know you really put your heart and soul into this and that you really care. Ashley is just like you in that respect. I loved all the pictures you sent of the Wizard of Oz performance!  You're doing a great job, keep up the good work!!
 

- Sharon Bremer
 

I cannot tell you the positive impact the experience had on Claire - in a word, significant. After she watched the video for the first time, all big tears came down her face. I asked her "You had fun & miss it, don't you?" and she shook her head an affirmative yes.  I brag to everyone about you and your program! Claire is loving the people, the program and loves the acting.

- Kathleen Kolze
 

I so glad we could be a part of this marvelous program...what a remarkable opportunity for these kids!!!  The show was terrific!! 

- Tamara Sims
 

Thank you sooooo much for everything, Melissa and I can't put in words how thankful we are.  Thank you for all the opportunities you've given us.

- Jessica Tucker

 


Dan, You are the best! Thank you for being so understanding and accommodating. Part of what we love about the program is that someone like you runs it.

- Bonnie Dal Porto
 

I have also been telling people about the program every chance I get. Shaina is very excited about starting up again. She really loves all of you, and its so good to have such wonderful adult role models for her. She is changing because of this program and I cant thank you all enough. The theatre has made her have a lighter view of life in general.  It is good to see her growing and changing.

- Karen Summerville
 

I'm totally doing the next program, if I can keep my math grade up, but I promised my parents I would, so I can do ArtReach.  I can't thank you enough for the experience to work with everyone at ArtReach this summer and fall.  I have friends that I have met that will be friends for life.  I've been telling all of my friends and their parents how wonderful Art Reach is.  This has been an awesome way to spend my summer and fall and hopefully years to come.  I've learned so much over such a short period of time, I will use everything you have taught me for along time to come.

- Kate Davis
 

Thanks so Much! You have no idea how much joy the show brought me today! It was the best feeling. I will treasure it forever!

-Peggy Kalbas
 

I wanted to tell you how much you have helped me. You made my Summer so much fun! Some day when I get hired for a big, professional show somewhere I will know how much being here has helped me.

-Gianna Datoli
 

I had a super time at your Camp! It was a great experience that I'll always remember! I met so many neat friends and I hope to go to one of your camps again!

-David Olinger
 

What a wonderful show! I, as well as my children, love the ArtReach Program so much! As long as you continue, Dan, we will all grow with you. I can not express enough words to describe how much you've made a difference in my children's lives. All the patience and encouragement you give to all of the children is just wonderful!

-Michelle Popoca-Reta
 

I am so proud of what you have been able to do with this program and so happy to be a part of it!

-Jaime McTaggart
 

This program is amazing! You bring out the best in just about everyone who comes here! You encourage me so much and I feel like a better person when I come here. I know I am being pushed to be the best person I can be. It amazes me how this program really touches the hearts of so many of the kids here.

-Gina Bianca
 

Thank-You for being such a good instructor this year! I feel so talented now!

-Jessica Pitt
 

Thank-You so much for a neat Summer. I loved learning from you. And, loved being here at ArtReach. I will see you in the Fall!

-Cassidy Murphy (age 5)
 

I had so much fun at Camp this Summer. Thank-You for my part and helping me learn it! I will see you next Summer!

-Morgan Moodhe  

 

 

ArtReach Educational Theatre
(847) 372-7798  -  (773) 604-1892
E-mail:
ArtReachSpotlite@aol.com