Library Programs
Thank you for visiting my website! Libraries were practically my second home growing up – I marveled at the stories I’d read that would transport me to other planets, time periods, and realities. I love libraries and I love reading! In every library program I offer, I make it my goal to ensure the program is interactive, age-appropriate and FUN! All of my library programs use a ton of audience participation to get as many children involved as possible.
However, my summers often fill up completely and in recent years I’ve had to turn away many shows due to my full schedule. Over the last 20 years, I’ve performed for clients all over the United States, often returning to the same libraries and schools year after year as the highlight of the programming season. This means you can rest assured you’re getting a quality performer who specializes in themed programs. Most librarians book me for either the big Grand Opening or the spectacular closing event, since my shows are so popular.
Librarians trust me to always put on a great fun show that emphasizes books. I’m proud and humbled to say that I’ve been widely acclaimed for my understanding of and interaction with children. I’ve motivated, inspired, and entertained audiences of all ages for nearly 20 years and I look forward to adding YOU to my long list of satisfied clients. (By the way, I’m also an author – I’ve written many books for presenters dealing with how to become better presenters, how to theme their shows and much more.)
The Better-Than-Money-Back-Guarantee:
If for any reason you don’t feel I delivered what you expected, not only will I give you a full refund but I will also donate $500 to your library…and in 15 years of performing all across North America, NO ONE has ever taken me up on my guarantee!
I am so glad we invited you to do your Building and Construction Magic Show at Macedon Public Library! Several parents commented that they enjoyed your show as much as their children, and one of my staff members reported that a little girl told her she really hopes we have you back (good thing you will be back on Columbus Day).
This show was absolutely perfect. From the moment the children began arriving, you had them engaged and giggling. Your humor is definitely silly and a bit wacky- the fortune telling monkey was a fine example of that (especially his eau de parfum spray for freshening up). All of the adults really noted how easy it was for you to get children participating in the performance of the magic tricks. Watching their quizzical and amused faces was especially great entertainment for myself and all of the parents and grandparents! To be honest, not only did your tricks thrill the children, I caught several parents whispering in wonder at how you managed to fool them, too!
The message of reading was deftly intertwined into the program. You managed to promote books without seeming preachy and quite a few children did browse the shelves for books immediately following the show. I grinned as widely as the kids each time the library clerks scanned a barcode! Thank you for a wonderful show that skillfully entertained everyone and inspired kids to read! I would highly recommend your magic shows to any librarian who is searching for a performer who can deliver a mesmerizing blend of silliness, enchantment and magic while inspiring kids from 4 to 12 years old to get excited about reading (in fact, it may even motivate a few of the parents to check out some books for themselves, too).
Stacey Wicksall
Macedon Public Library
Macedon, New York
“Thank you for such a wonderful program! The audience enjoyed the show and absolutely loved the opportunity to participate. Your show is interactive, age-appropriate, and helped to promote the summer reading theme in fun and imaginative ways. To other librarians, Cris’s first show at our library was a great success!”
Diana Reding, Librarian
Corfu Public Library
Corfu, NY
Cris – Just wanted to drop a line to let you know how much we enjoyed your show! The summer theme was projected excellently and with such fun. I received many a good word in regards to your performance. I think we all can agree that we liked the monkey! Glad to have you back again. Thanks!
Kathryn M. Puehn, Children’s Librarian
Elma Library
Elma, NY
“We have had Cris perform at our library two times now, and he’s always a hit! I have received numerous patron comments about how much they enjoyed his performance. One of the great things about Cris is that he has multiple shows – so the material he performed most recently was completely different from what was in his previous show. In addition to putting on a great show, Cris is super-easy to work with. He’s friendly, courteous, and easy to communicate with. I know I can count on Cris to be on time and well-prepared. I definitely recommend scheduling Cris for your next event!”
Amy Holland, Children’s Services Librarian
Irondequoit Public Library
Rochester, New York
Our patrons loved Cris Johnson’s “Building & Construction Magic” show! Despite such a small crowd, because of the July 4th holiday, everyone was engaged and thoroughly enjoyed all of the tricks and jokes. We all look forward to having Cris come back to the library to perform again!
Michelle Barrett
Chemung County Library District
West Elmira Branch
Elmira, New York
“Cris, your program was great! I especially appreciate that you arrived early with everything you needed so that I could focus on greeting families and promoting our summer programs. The kids really enjoyed your magic and I noticed some of the moms who had brought their books were laughing along with the kids! Thanks!”
Susan Carlson, Library Assistant,
Children and Teen Services
Hamlin Public Library
Hamlin, New York