Octopretzel is a tangle of Bay Area musicians, educators and parents – friends that originally came together for back yard jams. The name Octopretzel was coined by one of their then 4yr old kids, and it stuck. Their music, comprised of original songs as well as traditional favorites, is whimsical and fun, with an underlying sensitivity for nature, animals, feelings, and connection . Best described as folk music, our songs cross generations and genres, weaving together many different musical styles, instruments and themes. Their intention is to create music that can be enjoyed by humans of all ages – children, and their parents too!
Emily Butterfly is an interstellar story teller who lives to delight children with her magically unique form of puppetry, storytelling and song. She has had the honor of creating shows and performing for thousands of preschool and elementary school students and feels blessed to have the abilities to create her own puppet friends, write and perform inspirational tales and direct troupes of puppeteers. Her voice has dazzled ears through her voice over career with Free Range Graphics and Cartoon Network and a three year stint as the producer and hostess of a children’s radio program.
Natalie is an international teacher and performer specializing in contemporary and folkloric styles from Central Asia and the Middle East. She founded international online dance school Pomegranate Garden Dance featuring teachers and students from all over the world. These styles include Persian, Afghan, Tajik, Uzbek dance and more! She has been dancing for over 20 years and teaching for over 15 years.
Yari Mander is a gifted music educator with a patient and supportive teaching style honed over more than 18 years of working with children and adults. He is also a professional drummer who has performed onstage with Joan Baez, Gamelan X, Reverend Michael Beckwith, Agape Choir, Octoprezel, and many other artists. Yari has multiple subject and music teaching credentials, is certified in Orff Shulwerk, and has taught music for almost 20 years at Bay Area private and public schools, and for one year in Brazil. He currently teaches music full time in Oakland Unified School District. Yari’s mission is to facilitate joyful, active, and transformational musical experiences for diverse individuals and communities. He enjoys guiding groups to greater levels of connection, confidence, unity, and teamwork through making music together.
Slim Chance is a Circus Arts Educator and Performer. based in El Cerrito CA. He will be leading a 2 hour kid’s circus skillshare.
