1. What is KIDabra?
KIDabra is literally and figuratively a place for children's performers to grow, network and prosper.

The philosophy of KIDabra is that we continually examine our performing careers as if we were holding a diamond and turning it to reveal new facets to be explored, studied and documented.

Our goal is to continue to raise the bar of family entertainment knowing that children's and family performers are the backbone of the profession. Some heady ideals indeed, and we're doing it with your help!

Some of the ways you can participate-As a KIDabra International association member you can be involved on a local level through chapter meetings and by contributing to the KIDabra Journal. Also you can take advantage of our continually evolving resources. Most Importantly, once a year in August come join with us for the amazing week that is KIDabra: The Conference! We look forward to seeing you!

2. Who is KIDabra for?
If you perform for kids and families at Birthday Parties, Daycare & Preschools, Schools, Libraries, Churches, Picnics, Festivals, Holiday Events, Blue and Gold Scout Banquets, Family restaurants and more, then it is pretty easy to say that KIDabra is perfect for you.

3. I perform/work full time and it's hard for me to justify taking the time and expense to attend the conference, what should I do?
This is probably the question asked most.

Ken Scott says "I tell people that cannot afford to go because they will miss shows, that they cannot afford NOT to come."

Mike Bent says "I'd attend even if it was 2 weeks before Christmas because what I learn there is invaluable".

Now why in the world would 2 top pros say that? Because that's what every successful performer says who attends KIDabra Conference. They X out the calendar that week knowing that the resources, networking, education and inspiration sets the pace of their professional work for the year.

(Top Secret about to be tipped: If you're in demand, easy to work with, and tactful your clients are happy to schedule around your week of career enrichment. They themselves are made to go to mandatory conferences with their own work, so they understand and appreciate your need for continuing professional education. They just don't understand that you really want to go to the seminars, all of them, because you love it.

Attending KIDabra is about making a personal decision as to whether you and your audiences deserve the best you can be as a performer. And whether they deserve the best show you can offer. And yes you will have a great time there "sharpening your saw!"

4. Do nonmembers of KIDabra International have to pay extra to attend KIDabra Conference?
No. Primary nonmember registrants pay exactly the same price as members, which they become when they attend. This is identical to the way IBM's conference registration works. At SAM currently, nonmembers pay an extra fee of $30.00 with no additional benefits beyond registration. Other groups may be set up differently, however on this issue we emulate these long established and healthy organizations.

5. How is my KIDabra International membership fee used?
Let's look at a domestic primary membership fee of $55.00 First, there is a one time $15.00 initiation fee which helps cover materials and equipment, membership cards, postage, printing, etc. Second $20.00 is for The Journal which covers design, printing, labor and postage. Finally from the remaining $20.00 the fees of the Corporation, the attorney and accountant who oversee it, taxes, equipment and insurance are purchased. Currently Mark and Tami receive no salary or compensation although they're not opposed to it. They project upon attainment of somewhere between two and three thousand members they will receive a small salary, and/or hire a staff member to assist in the daily association administration of duties.

6. How is KIDabra International set up?
KIDabra International Inc. is owned by Mark and Tami Daniel. Mark is president of the corporation and association. KIDabra International Chapters are independent clubs who follow the association guidelines. We're happy to tell you though, NO boring elections and almost NO politics from headquarters:>)

7. What is the Code of Conduct for KIDabra International Members?
I pledge to promote and participate in the art and advancement of children's and family entertainment in a positive way. I will respect and protect the intellectual property of my fellow performers. I will never intentionally nor maliciously bring harm to the children I perform for.

8. KIDabra Conference is in Pigeon Forge, where in the world is Pigeon Forge, Tennessee?
Pigeon Forge is a resort/vacation town tucked in the corner of The Great Smoky Mountain National Park (The most visited national park in the US) and just next to the lovely town of Gatlinburg in eastern Tennessee.

Pigeon Forge is known for it's many theaters and outside of Broadway, Las Vegas and Branson, Missouri comes in about 4th in the live show distinction. The area is rich with Country Music and is one of the areas of origin of Bluegrass Music. Outlet mall shopping with all the popular stores represented is huge here and close to our hotel. Yes, there are bargains to be had! Of course what really put Pigeon Forge on the map many years ago is Dolly Parton and her theme park Dollywood. And yes, just like Las Vegas, Pigeon Forge has it's wonderfully tacky strip of Restaurants, Hotels, Attractions and Shops. (Just no gambling, that's 45 minutes away in Cherokee, NC) If the kids are coming with you there's endless stuff to do at water parks, wacky miniature golf courses galore, touring Cades Cove the very popular restored settlement, exploring Forbidden Caverns in nearby Seviereville (very cool), pan for gold and gems up and down the strip, check out Wonderworks (the upside down building) full of interactive, hands-on science fun (Which gets an enthusiastic thumbs-up from Ralph the great and Jozo Bozo) and of course go see our friend Terry Evanswood's fantastic show! Discover more info about Pigeon Forge at mypigeonforge.com It really is a fun area to explore, come a day or 2 early or stay a bit after Conference, to soak in the scenery, you'll be glad you did!