Renowned children’s author, singer and songwriter Eric Ode will entertain the morning on Sept. 29 at Enumclaw's Chalet Theatre.

The 10:30 performance is a fundraiser for Chalet Arts Showcase Theater, a nonprofit organization with the mission of purchasing and converting Enumclaw’s historic movie theater into a community performing arts center.

Ode uses stories, skits, poetry, props, puppets and interactive music to get the audience engaged in a joyful experience.

He is highly praised for his energetic and original style that inspires children to enjoy reading and creativity. As a former school teacher for 12 years, he mastered the challenges in the classroom and found ways to make learning fun. With a master’s degree in education technology and a passion for teaching, Ode left the classroom in 2001 for a larger stage that would reach more children in a different way.

“You can go anywhere with children’s music as long as you are writing with sincerity," he said. “When you are working with kids, there’s no room for cynicism; no room for anything that’s not genuine and from the heart."

Ode’s original stage presentations have taken him across many states and as far as Japan and Guam. He has written three children’s books, has had poems featured in more than a dozen anthologies, written countless songs and recorded seven albums. Ode has been a presenter at hundreds of schools and libraries and is frequently found performing at local fairs and festivals. Currently he is offering a weekly show at Remlinger Farms in Carnation.

During the past 12 years Ode has received numerous honors, including five Parenting Choice Awards and a Telly Bronze Award.

Clips of Ode performing live can be found on You Tube and on his website, www.ericode.com

Tickets are $5 each or $15 per family at the door. Advance tickets are available at the Enumclaw Chamber of Commerce.

For more information call 360-829-1792.

Contact Enumclaw Courier Herald Senior Writer, Editor Kevin Hanson at editor@courierherald.com or 360-802-8205.

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