Here's what some say of Dana's performances:
From Festivals
The Edmonton International Street Performers Festival is the first of its kind in North America and is widely regarded to be one of the best, not just in Canada and the United States but around the world.
This is the fifth year that The Golden Finkel has been presented and with great pleasure it was awarded to Dana Smith in 2001. As Dana got on stage to receive his award I got the feeling that it was like he had won an Academy Award and an Olympic Gold Medal all rolled into one. The plain and simple truth of it all is that this man loves his work, loves the people he works with, and in his own way represents the best of what a street act can be.
-Shelley Switzer, Artistic Producer
Edmonton International Street Performers Festival
Just a quick note to remind event producers that Dana is a huge resource for event programming, logistics and audience ideas. He travels and performs ALL THE TIME, so his observations are always current (unlike us, trying to remember which day, and where that particular show was). He is MUCH MORE than a good vaudevillian, and anyone not asking him what he thinks about their festival or event is wasting an opportunity to gain valuable insights!
-Steven D Remington, CFE
Tempe Festival of the Arts
I met Dana at an IFEA conference and he was the first "busker" I thought of when we expanded the entertainment line-up at our annual Glendale Glitter & Glow festival in 2000. He's been the "busker headliner" ever since (our Mayor suggested we consider moving him to the main stage). Dana and Lacey even helped out our marketing efforts last year with a cameo performance on our TV partners morning show. We've started discussions about bringing a whole troupe of buskers from SF for next year's event. You can't go wrong with Dana on your team!
-Vern Biaett, CFE Retired But Still in the Game
Former City of Glendale, AZ Special Events
Dana is a special entertainer who has the utmost respect from other world class street performers. We have worked with him for many years and were most proud when Dana and his dog were the featured picture on the cover of our daily metro newspaper as he performed on the Family Stage in the "big top" at our festival the day before.
-Clay Fuller, Festival Coordinator
Bite of Portland, Portland, OR
From LibrariesDana was incredible! He instantly assessed our little library and tailored his act to fit in the small space. But his performance was in no way diminished! We love how much he involved so many children, even just making eye contact and talking to them through the act, making them all feel special. Our library was packed to capacity, all circulation ceased because everyone was entranced. He saved Lacey for last, and she stole everyone's heart! He took time out for the kids after the show, allowing them to pose for pictures with he and Lacey, this also impressed us. The caliber of his show is top rate and we hope to be lucky enough to have him back again.
Thanks!!
-Adriane Holguin
Kern River Valley Library
Clerk, Youth Programming
Thank You for great shows. I wasn't sure what to expect, but I was very pleased. You are a good entertainer, funny, fast and full of surprises. I really enjoyed your inclusion of children as volunteers, and the way you handled them. Lacey has great potential as a vocalist, as an athlete and I loved the way you had her bow at the end in the same way you had the children bow. Just a great family program and some great juggling as well. (I'm glad you had me switch the chairs around.)
I would be glad to give you a recommendation.
-Judy Savage, Children Services
Goleta Public Library
Santa Barbara County Library System
What a phenomenal performance!! Dana and Lacey thrilled a standing room only audience of 161 with their juggling, singing, acrobatics, jokes and good humor. The parents and kids all had a great time, especially the kids who got to help Dana in his show. Thank you very much to the Friends for bringing such a great program to the libraries this summer!!
-Washoe Public Library
Reno, Nevada
To the amazement of 115 young and old, Dana and Lacey performed magnificently at our library this morning. Dana sure knows how to get the kids involved-from jokes to juggling, and Lacey wowed the crowd with her tricks. We want to thank the Friends for making these performances possible. Thanks again!
-Washoe Public Library
Reno, Nevada
From Fairs
Your high quality stage show drew great crowds and your flexibility in serving as an emcee make you a great asset for any fair. We definitely look forward to having you back again next year
-Brett Chance,
Entertainment Director
Ohio State Fair
