What people are saying!

"It is with pleasure that I write this letter in support of Jeanette O'Keeffe, Jonas Falle and their outstanding performance, "Kindness Rocks". Jeanette, Jonas and their group performed two incredible shows at our school on September 20th, 2007. The first, to 1200 elementary school students (grades 1-7) from our community of schools and the second show, to the entire Templeton Secondary body of 1100 students (grades 8-12).

Jeanette and Jonas first proposed their performances to some Templeton staff and myself back in June. Their incredible enthusiasm and pure drive gave us all little doubt that Kindness Rocks was indeed something special. In addition to the positive message and impact the students would receive, they outlined their desire to include a number of students from out school in dramatic, choral and dance routines they would incorporate into the show. Within an extremely tight time line, only the first two weeks back at school, they connected with and transformed our student performers. The Kindness Rocks staff worked countless hours after school to ensure the students were prepared and rehearsed in their routines. Their commitment and confidence helped establish a buzz throughout the school even before the show date.

Kindness Rocks is a show that touches people of all ages. Using a variety of mediums it appeals to everyone. Students, staff and community members in attendance were encouraged to sing and dance along. Hundreds did. The interactive, participatory show allows for students to express themselves in a comfortable and secure environment, while at the same time, encounter the heartfelt and important messages of acceptance, perseverance and generosity. Regardless of whatever they were part of the show or part of the audience there was something for all. The atmosphere and energy of Kindness Rocks created helped break some of the barriers and stereotypes that ordinarily influence many students. In particular, new students. As one staff commented, "this was easily the best start to the school year we have had in the 14 years I have been here." I attribute a significant part of the success to the environment Kindness Rocks helped establish.

I would like to thank the entire Kindness Rocks entourage for the spirit, enthusiasm and message they delivered to our school. It was a remarkable educational event that I encourage all schools to experience.

"Brock Tully and the members of Abba Cadabra performed their Kindness Rocks concert for the 560 students of our school last year. It was an exceptional performance and worthwhile for its performance value alone. The kindness message that was woven into the performance from beginning to end was simple, important, applicable, appropriate information that we continue to refer to in support of our school code of conduct and the ongoing development of social responsibility in our students.

Brock, Jonas, Jeanette and the whole crew were some of the most genuine people that I have ever met and this certainly came through in their performance. The performance is built around the concept of kindness and that all of us are powerful people who, by performing simple kind acts, can profoundly affect the world that we live in."

Mr. Michael Finch - Vice Principal - Templeton Secondary

"Brock Tully and the members of Abba Cadabra performed their Kindness Rocks concert for the 560 students of our school last year. It was an exceptional performance and worthwhile for its performance value alone. The kindness message that was woven into the performance from beginning to end was simple, important, applicable, appropriate information that we continue to refer to in support of our school code of conduct and the ongoing development of social responsibility in our students.

Brock, Jonas, Jeanette and the whole crew were some of the most genuine people that I have ever met and this certainly came through in their performance. The performance is built around the concept of kindness and that all of us are powerful people who, by performing simple kind acts, can profoundly affect the world that we live in.

I am not sure that there is a more important message to give to young students. Kindness Rocks delivers in spectacular form."

Mike McEwan - Vice Principal - Tecumseh Elementary School

" Well, what an incredibly impressive event this afternoon! I have got to say, if someone asked me if I had any comments about tweaking anything to improve it, I honestly don't think I would have anything to add! Talk about grabbing the audience attention! It was fun, it was informative, the kids obviously received the message and everybody that was there, young and old had a terrific time. I also enjoyed how there was some interaction with the kids and how some of the teachers were included. This really added a fun and crazy element for the kids and the participation element is a positive one. I really have to say I think this is an a total winner! Thanks for all the work you have done on this, it was a totally and completely awesome event! "

- Janet Zarowny - Vancouver, BC

" I was so touched to see what you have created. A few times I was moved to tears. I am so proud of you. You are making such a Big Difference in the world! I love the bracelets - I am already wearing mine on my right hand. Loved hearing how the children define kindness- you relate so well with them, loved the stories that folks told about being left out and being bullied. Loved the video of your bicycle journey. Thought the skits worked well. "

- Carol Ann Fried - Friedom Training Services, Vancouver, BC

" From the moment I entered the gym, I could feel the highly positive energy as well as the "grandness" of the event - from the lights and special effects to the buzz of an incredibly well organized team at work, their welcoming smiles and friendly and helpful manner. What a wonderful introduction!

This was my first experience of ABBA Cadabra. WOW! Your energy feels so truly positive. It really is remarkable. You had everyone truly rockin'. I am sure you were able to see the students' enthusiasm but what may have been harder to see from the stage is the response of the teachers and guests. I can tell you, EVERYONE was into it!

Brock - I am continually amazed at how much your messages speak to me. This time, I especially connected with the idea that it is important to dream big and take action, even if you don't complete the dream. As you said, Terry Fox's impact would not necessarily have been greater if he finished running across Canada. Interesting food for thought...I also really loved how you gave the students the opportunity to reflect and share on your Reflections. The way you introduced the beauty and gift of our uniqueness was also very powerful. After asking the students if they had pets, you showed a slide of a dog and cat and asked them if they would expect/want all dogs or cats to be the same colour and shape. Would they expect or want all flowers to be red? "Of course not!" was the resounding answer and perfect lead in to your message about the beauty of our uniqueness. Very effective! Of course, your juggling always gets people smiling and laughing!

I felt the skit was very effective and touched upon many key issues.The "kindness rocks" infusion before the replay was not only a great way to engage the students in contributing to a positive outcome for the scene but also in creating a "culture" of kindness. For a brief moment, they ALL spoke "in one voice" and the message was "Kindness Rocks" - what a powerful anchor! More than just incredible performances...a powerful message

In a society partly brought up on television and accustomed to receiving news through media, I think it is incredibly powerful for kids to see that there are stars, celebrities and heroes who are using the power of their voices and position to send a message that will truly change lives. Rather than violence getting the coverage and spotlight, now they see that kindness is not only making headway but headlines. I think the students' desire to get autographs says a lot... I really loved the balance between high energy entertainment and heart-centered story sharing and presentations. The songs got them moving; the stories, skit and reflections got them thinking; the interactions got them sharing; and the juggling got them laughing. How wonderful...

As much as I enjoyed the high energy entertainment aspect, I felt the story sharing and reflection pieces really helped "ground" the experience and message. It also gave the students an opportunity to see you as "real" people, with your own emotions, challenges, dreams, and affirmed the fact that, as individuals, we can all make a difference, whether we cycle around North America, reach stardom, or write a letter to someone after 10 years. (I must say that all your stories and sharing really touched me and Mark's letter literally brought me to tears. It is incredible to think that this person was still carrying the emotional burden of his actions for so many years. It is a perspective we don't get to hear that often. I think if I were a "bully" in that school, I would certainly think twice. If I were a "victim", I would also see the bully from a different perspective. Incredibly powerful... Jeanette, I really loved how you shared your story and then took the time to physically connect with the students to whom you dedicated the song. I don't know if you had a chance to notice this but there were quite a few very enthusiastic "alright!" responses from students who were very determined to reach out to you.). Again, a huge THANK YOU and CONGRATULATIONS. "

- Nadine Marshall - Co Founder of Kind Acts and The Coinspiracy

" Wow! That was terrific. I loved the whole thing and it worked. I don't doubt for a second that the kids took it in. Thanks so much for sharing who you are in such a loving way and for getting kids excited about kindness. "

- Marg Hubard - Global Peace Hut

" Thank you for inviting me to the Kindness Rocks concert today. I enjoyed the music as well as the message and role play. "

- Anna Ho - D PAC Executive - Burnaby, BC District

"I wanted to write you a note thanking you for all of the extra recognition you gave to the English Bluff Singers in the Kindness Rocks concert last week.  You and the band created an experience for these children that they will never forget for their entire lives.  The children learned many things about themselves, about performing, and of course, the energy that is needed to be a successful entertainer.  I thank you from the bottom of my heart for the opportunity you have created for these young ones.  Its people like yourself that impact these children and how they perceive their entire well being and others.  I cannot thank you enough.  If there is anything I can do for you in the future regarding performances, please let me know.  As you know, music is completely my life......I believe we share that in common.  Take care and please pass on my thanks to Jeanette as well."

Ericka Van Iperen - Music Teacher - English Bluff Elementary School