Abigail Washburn never set out to be a songwriter or a recording artist. Five years ago when she found herself on stage in a smoke-filled Beijing club playing her banjo and singing old-time Appalachian mountain music in Chinese to a packed house, she was as surprised as anyone. Abigail has created a new sound - a sound that challenges traditional notions of country and culture, embodied in the raw, transcendental music of the Sparrow Quartet; the all-star collaboration featuring banjo great Bela Fleck, acclaimed cellist Ben Sollee, and Grammy-nominated fiddler Casey Driessen. http://www.abigailwashburn.com/

Robert Earl Keen's transformation from rowdy crowd-pleaser to one of contemporary music's finest poet laureates of the everyman may seem evolutionary or a reinvention of sorts to unfamiliar eyes. The truth is much simpler: Robert Earl Keen has always been great. His meticulously crafted tunes provoke tears, new philosophies, and belly laughs - occasionally in the same verse. Folk, blues, jazz, and hardcore country emerge throughout his compositions as Keen weaves his peerless stories with wry excellence. His live performances build bridges between old favorites and progressive new compositions, including The Front Porch Song, The Road Goes On Forever, Gringo Honeymoon, Dreadful Selfish Crime, Feelin' Good Again, The Great Hank, and Long Chain. http://www.robertearlkeen.com/

"Funky and danceable with a message of tribal philosophy and celebration, Donna the Buffalo's music is a unique blend of reggae, rock, country, zydeco, Cajun, and folk traditions. The dual vocals of Tara Nevins and Jeb Puryear provide a hypnotic quality to the melody, adding to the band's unusual instrumentation and original sound. While their swirling music ensures that audiences will be up and dancing, Topic material moves effortlessly between political, historical, personal, and spiritual themes, with ideas of social and moral responsibility that spring from the band members core beliefs." http://www.donnathebuffalo.com/

Ms. LaVette is one of the greatest soul singers in American music history, possessed of an incredibly expressive voice that one moment will exude a formidable level of strength and intensity and the next will appear vulnerable, reflective, reeking of heartbreak. Unfortunately, it says much about the vagaries of the popular music industry that, although LaVette has been recording for over four decades, up until recent years she has remained criminally unknown.
http://www.bettyelavette.com/

We don't know his birthday. We'd only be guessing at an alma matter. And nobody ever told us, for sure, if he went by any other name. But for the last three decades and counting, nobody could mistake him for any other performer, nor singer, nor guitarist, nor character. While the careers of performers who reside in the limelight are usually short-lived and over-overexposed, it's refreshing to encounter Leon Redbone, who remains so musically resonant and personally elusive. Most folks were introduced to the man during his network debut on Saturday Night Live in 1976, where he showcased his indelible version of "Walkin' Stick." Over the course of his 30+ year, 15+ album, super-star-of-stage-and-screen-and-Madison-Avenue career, the bard has continued his love affair with tunes from the turn-of-the-century (as in the second-to-last century), flapper-era radio ditties, Depression-spawned ragtime and World War II folk-jazz.
http://www.leonredbone.com/

Pistolera is a NYC-based band that defines the latin alt-folklorico genre. Drawing from traditional styles of Mexican music and fusing it with a pop-rock sensibility, the electrifying quartet features the Spanish lyric songsof vocalist and guitarist Sandra Lilia Velásquez, the driving accordion melodies of Maria Elena, and the unbeatable rhythm section of bassist Inca B. Satz and drummer Ani Cordero.
http://www.pistolera.net/

Dubbed by The Washington Post as "one of DC's most energetic and eclectic bands" Scythian (sith-ee-yin) falls nothing short of a "party band". Their high-energy, adrenaline-peddling, interactive brand of music has one goal in mind - to get people on their feet and dancing. The crowd is an essential element of each show and Scythian relies heavily on crowd participation to get people involved and loosened up. As The Washington Post states, their results are always the same: ""the band's enthusiasm is contagious, and shows seem to end with everyone dancing, jumping around or hoisting glasses." Led by a pair of young raging fiddlers, Scythian has a great respect and admiration for the traditional - the foundation of their music; nevertheless, Scythian is not afraid to wink at convention in search of a little fun, lending them an appeal to young and old alike. http://www.scythianmusic.com/

For over 20 years, the amazing performances of the The Shangri-La Chinese Acrobats® (formerly the Chinese Magic Revue) have been the perfect high-energy attraction for 100's of universities, performing arts centers and corporate events. It's no wonder. Under the direction of acrobatic legends, the Hai Family, the company flawlessly interprets the precision and grace of an art form honed by years of training and discipline; Chinese acrobatics. Their multi-faceted and multi-cultural production features dazzling acrobatic displays, formidable feats of daring and balance, explosive Kung Fu, brilliant costumes, and even a touch of Chinese comedy. Along with several TV appearances including That's Incredible, the troupe was awarded the "Performing Arts Campus Entertainment Award" by the National Association for Campus Activities (1986), and was nominated for the 1998 Campus Activities Today "Reader's Choice Award for Best Live Novelty Act."
http://www.iaipresentations.com/sgl.php

At 22 years old Troy has already experienced more than most musicians three times his age, and he has the chops to prove it. Having traveled extensively in the United States as well as Cuba, Europe, South America & The United Arab Emerites, Troy's music has reached innumerable music lovers who will never forget his amazing live performances."UNBELIEVABLE! It's just not anything you're going to hear anywhere else." - The Edge
"Troy possesses the rarest combination of talent, technical capability and down home soul. I'm his biggest fan."
- Wynton Marsalis
http://www.myspace.com/tromboneshorty

NEWS FLASH! Vieux Farka Toure has been nominated for a 2008 BBC World Music award! A highly-talented guitarist, singer, songwriter and percussionist, Vieux Farka Toure crafts songs in the rich Sonrai tradition of his father, famed guitarist Ali Farka Toure. Vieux's songs are globally-minded music for the new millennium, where ancient African melodies meets reggae and rock on equal footing. The music carries a positive message, and Vieux has spent the last several years promoting the UNICEF "Fight Malaria" campaign to spread awareness about malaria, the number one life-threatening disease for African children.
http://www.vieuxfarkatoure.com/vieuxfarkatoure/index.html

Born and raised in Kentucky, the young cellist and singer-songwriter Ben Sollee is changing the way people think of the cello. While Ben has studied classically, receiving his degree from the University of Louisville in 2006, his soulful voice and style of playing reflect his deep connection to American roots music. His cello playing is a unique alchemy of fiddling, percussive bow work, and three-finger style plucking. Beyond his work with The Sparrow Quartet Ben has toured and recorded with Avant Garde Blues man Otis Taylor. In 2007, NPR recognized Ben as one of the Great Unknown Artists of the year. http://www.myspace.com/bensollee

Formed in 2002, Hãhãhães is named after the Indian tribe Pataxó-Hãhãhães that once inhabited the city of Salvador in Bahia, Brazil. Lead by master Afro-Brazilian percussionist Dendê, the beat is always central, but it is tempered by thought provoking lyrics and sweet melodies. Dendê has been performing professionally since the age of 14 and has performed and recorded with such artists as Marisa Monte, Gilberto Gil, Carlinhos Brown, Yvette Sangalo and Sepultura. Having left Brazil in 2001, Dendê now lives in New York and also teaches Afro-Brazilian percussion in the New York City area. Comprised of musicians of various backgrounds, the groups' diversity permeates its music with rhythms ranging from Nigerian Afrobeat to Brazilian Samba to Cuban Pilón. .LSS http://www.mamadele.com/

Harper is a singer with the deep soul of Motown, a harmonica player who can graft Sonny Boy II and Little Walter with John Popper, and a musical visionary who is unafraid to mix the haunting drone of the didgeridoo into an eclectic mix of world blues fusion. Backed by his energetic band "Midwest Kind" , this Australian songwriter makes his dramatic debut at LEAF .LSS www.myspace.com/harperband

Search for Common Ground(sfcg) will present Common Ground Film Series for a remarkable hour in the Barn Saturday night. SFCG believes that the power of the media - and of film - can be used to develop greater understanding and tolerance, and can contribute to defusing conflict rather than inflaming it. Films in the common ground series demonstrate, in informative and entertaining ways, that workable solutions can be found to contentious problems. The films take a balanced approach and emphasize the common humanity shared by people in conflict. They reveal why adversaries think, feel, and act as they do - stressing the commonalities among peoples, while not ignoring the differences that divide them. These films help to expose powerful stories of individual paths taken, breaking down mental and physical barriers, and changing our vision.
http://www.sfcg.org/

Spiritual Rez, the Reggae Horn Funk Party is a 7 piece band who has tirelessly toured the country promoting positive music and attitude. Nominated for a Boston Music Award, the band provides a unique blend of Reggae, Funk and Afrobeat to give one of the most energetic live shows around. www.spiritualrez.com http://www.spiritualrez.com/

For more than 2 decades Grammy award winning artist Terrance Simien, 8th generation Louisiana Creole, has been shattering the myths about what his indigenous Creole Zydeco music is and is not. Leading his Zydeco Experience Band, Simien has become a highly respected, internationally recognized touring and recording artist and Cultural Ambassador for his state. He has presented thousands of performances, toured millions of miles to over 40 countries and reached at least a million people during his eventful 25 year career. http://www.terrancesimien.com/

With a downright nasty rhythm section and brilliant brass behind him, front-man Eugene Snowden is able to work The Legendary JC's into a high-performance engine of soul and funk originals which are as familiar and inspiring as the standards laid by trailblazers James Brown, Otis Redding and Al Green. Such over-the-top shows have garnered the band headlining slots at three consecutive years worth of NOLA Jazz Fest late-nights, Other festival performances include Voodoo Music Experience, Langerado, Down on the Farm and Dunedin Mardi Gras. - sonic bids artist http://www.thejointchiefs.com/

Adina Gordon calls to the delight of dancers coast to coast. Relaxed and smooth, she's known for her concise teaching, engaging dances, and infectious joy. Her reassuring stage presence and mellow voice will have you floating off to dance nirvana in no time. http://www.adinagordon.com/

Since 1994, Beth has called more than 100 dances each year from coast to coast as well as Denmark and Canada. Beth is in demand as a caller and teacher for community dances both small and large,at Dance Weekends and Folk Festivals and other gatherings. http://www.bethmolaro.com/

Combining the improvisational style and solos of a jazz band with a repertoire of traditional Celtic, Quebecois and American old-time music, Contrazz is a high-energy ensemble known for its driving rhythms and hot music. A band with a serious groove, this ensemble of highly skilled players includes David DiGiuseppe on accordion, Rodney Marsh on saxophone and flute, Bernie Petteway on guitar, Diane Petteway on piano and Sara Romweber on percussion.
http://www.contrazz.com/

Crowfoot weaves musical influences from England, Ireland, Quebec, and the Appalachian Mountains into a captivating fusion that delights dancers and listeners alike. Into this meeting ground of traditions, they incorporate their own distinctive original compositions and songs. Having cut their teeth on the contra dance circuit, Crowfoot has gained a reputation for their trancelike grooves, subtle interplay, and unstoppable energy. For 3 years they have been playing for dances across the US and Canada, drawing a youthful following and foot-stomping praise wherever they go.
http://www.crowfootmusic.com/

Ira Bernstein is one of the world's premier solo percussive step dancers. Full-length concerts are a stunning display of a wide variety of these dynamic, rhythmic dances.
http://www.tentoepercussion.com/

"Latin Dance Performance and Instruction. Asheville's premier Latin Dance Company specializing in creative approaches to Modern Salsa Dance."
http://www.salseros828.com/

Jump, jive, and jazz from the 1930's and 40's.Toddlers, their grandparents and everyone in between love to boogie to the three-part scatty vocals, lyrical clarinet and tenor sax, and the funky beat of this energetic, elegant ensemble.
http://www.marthaandthemoodswingers.com/

Rodney Sutton, a former Junior High teacher, is a traditional dancer, caller, musician, and storyteller. He was both a member and director of the Green Grass Cloggers in their early years, and co-founder of and principle dancer with the Fiddle Puppets(now known as Footworks). Rodney's friendly style of sharing his love of clogging and flatfooting, along with his welcoming "put you at ease" calling, has made him a favorite at festivals, conventions, and retreats for over 30 years.

An explosion of energy! This composer, songsmith and multi-instrumentalist performs original songs and improvisations with voice,guitar and instruments made from found or foraged objects. His concerts inspire, inform and enlighten; beginning with a simple "tuning" of the audience, who participate as audience/orchestra in each song. Billy has been an international performer and educator for nearly twenty years, providing "foraged folk" concerts and hands-on workshops.LEAF in Schools & Streets Artist. .LSS
http://www.billyjonas.com/

Atmospheric and mesmeric, 'throat singing' is almost too difficult to describe in words. It must be heard to be believed - the music, produced by resonating low sounds in the throat, creates a middle note and a haunting, flute-like harmonic. Chirgilchin is a group of musicians from Tuva, a small Russian province north of Western Mongolia. Singing the ancient folk songs in the Tuvan language, the group also plays hand made instruments.
Tuva is Geographical Center of Asia - north of Mongolia and inside of Russian Federation.
http://www.chirgilchin.com/

NC native David Stevenson took up the serious study of the guitar at age 21. His teachers have included Ali Akbar Khan at Ali Akbar College, Ralph Towner at Naropa Institute and Christopher Berg at USC. Eventually earning a Master's in Classical Guitar, Stevenson has always been oriented towards creating music for the guitar from a non-stylized perspective, preferring instead to search out a unique voice for the instrument. Percussionist River Guerguerian was born in Montreal. He attended the Manhattan School of Music Conservatory. He has been performing internationally for over 20 years with such diverse groups as the BBC Concert Orchestra, Tan Dun, Chuck Berry, Ziggy Marley, Gypsy Kings and Omar Faruck Tekbilek. His devotion to the subtle and transformative power of the arts gained new inspiration after living in the Himalayan Mountains. He now resides in the Southern Appalachians in Asheville, NC. Together, David and River create a unique and intoxicating blend of music and rhythm that will touch your soul.
http://riverpointdesign.com/davidsguitar/Home.html

The Magic of African Rhythm (TMOAR) is a pillar in the bridge that connects us to our African heritage across the ocean. Baba and Mama Shabu began working on the bridge in the 1960's and the Shabu Family continues this cultural tradition today. The African concept of Ngoma, the "rhythmic thread" that links drumming, singing, dancing, and visual arts together, is expressed in all their offerings: Djembe Fire!, Balankora, and Safari Ngoma.
http://themagicofafricanrhythm.com/Home_1.html

In collaboration with

Shimmering, soulful and always fabulous Asheville outfit Menage brings their swinging roots rock sound back to LEAF. This female fronted quartet sports a tight, engaging live show with lots of vocal harmony and songs about their two favorite topics, boys and food. Some say Menage is pioneering the new "mountain pop" sound.
http://www.myspace.com/menage

Sisters Leah and Chloe grew up bouncing between the streets of Atlanta's concrete jungle and the southern Appalachian foothills. Born in a family overflowing with music and art, they were raised with old-time mountain melodies as their lullabies, and their young veins pumping red with underground hip hop and spoken word movements of the urban South. Rising Appalachia(R.I.S.E) stays true to their deep love of storytelling, poetry, lyricism, ballads, hip hop, jazz, blues, soul, folk, and roots music from around the world. Joined by newest members John Branigan, Imhotep, and a selections of Asheville's finest.
http://www.myspace.com/risingappalachia

A performance by Scott Perry reflects the variety and contrasts found in the music that he has made his vocation. His guitar work showcases stinging delta slide, lilting piedmont fingerwork, tough Chicago shuffles and swinging west coast vamps and is paired with a vocal attack that draws you in with a whisper, stirs your soul with it's resonance, then exalts you with a gritty roar. .LSS Sonic Bids
http://www.ohpapa.com/

Secret Agent 23 Skidoo is the King of Kid Hop! From rockin live shows that are cooler than yer favorite Underoos to a #1 XM Radio hit about having good luck by believing in it ( see how that works? ), 23 Skidoo's brand new brand of positive hip hop for kids is a blast. Golden Age sounds for the underage crowd, Old School jams for grade school fans! http://www.myspace.com/secretagent23skidoo
http://www.childstyle.org/

Recent winners of the prestigious Fiddler's Grove Band Competition and reigning State Bluegrass Champions, High Windy draws from a combination of contemporary and traditional Bluegrass styles while adding Old Time themes and an original approach! In an area where great Roots music is the norm, High Windy rises to the top, merging sophisticated arrangements and a style that is all their own!
http://www.highwindyband.com/

The Bob Moog Foundation honors and supports the legacy of electronic music pioneer Bob Moog by celebrating, teaching and documenting innovative thinking in electronic music. The foundation aims to touch people's lives through experiential creativity and exposure to the boundless realm of sonic reality. Join us at LEAF for an interactive musical experience."
http://www.moogfoundation.org/

Eboo Sauls plays, teaches and performs Appalachian fiddle, mandolin, guitar, dulcimer and the jug throughout the South. She'll be leading EZ-Jams at the old-time tent, which are geared towards the beginner and intermediate musician. She'll make sure all are familiar with the chord progressions and play the tunes through slowly before proceeding.

Playing in the Old Time Music group "Too Hot To Cook" for the past 20 years & teaching mandolin at The Blue Ridge Old Time Music week for the past 5 years. "Timing is everything " is what Elizabeth Ann subscribes to along with a good old time dose of fun while students swiftly learn to play a fiddle tune.

Known for his distinctive fretless banjo playing and rhythmic flatfoot dancing, Gordy has toured and recorded with Ralph Blizard and the New Southern Ramblers and the Green Grass Cloggers for many years. His solo banjo playing was recently featured on 2 CDs, Banjo Gathering and Old Time Banjo Festival on Rounder Records. Rebecca's solid rhythm guitar playing keeps many an old time jam cooking.

Old-time jams

Ken, a British native, has been involved in the traditional Folk Club scene since 1970. He plays Irish Whistle and sings traditional English folk songs with Concertina and Fiddle

Lewis Wills has been playing fiddle since the late 60's and began playing banjo and guitar before that during the Folk Revival years. Wills has been a staff musician for Blue Ridge Old-Time Week at Mars Hill College for the past three years, and has a banjo piece recorded on the album, 40th Annual Old Fiddlers Convention at Galax, Virginia.

Darrell Rose is a master African drummer who plays in the West African tradition with his band JuJu Gathering (sp?). He has played internationally with Corey Harris, among other well-known names in the music industry, and has played on tour and recorded with The Wailers. Darrell's involvement with and commitment to teaching young people distinguishes him from other talented musicians. .LSS

The Couch Potato Wakes Up! Help the Couch Potato Get Healthy and motivate yourself in the process! Join the "Couch Slouch" on her transformation into "Super Spud!" This highly engaging and motivational show stresses the importance of exercise, good nutrition, adequate sleep, humor, and positive thinking. Original and adapted songs include "Your Beating Heart," "Breakfast," "Hand Jive," and "My Bones." thehealthadventure.org

Forget about juggling, polka-dot pants, red rubber shoes and fake noses. Unicycling has moved beyond the circus tent and onto the trails. Mountain unicycling, more popularly called Muni, is a relatively new sport involves riding a unicycle on the same terrain one would take a mountain bike. Muni has been growing rapidly in the Blue Ridge since it first took hold in the 1980s. Come see first hand what all excitement is about. Adam Masters and his crew of muniers will amaze and delight you with their sick muni skills.
http://www.unifiddler.com/aboutuni.html

Ancestral Rhythms has been with Western North Carolina Arts Agencies (WNCAA), since 2003, doing artist-in-residencies and performances for the Transylanvia County Schools, Avery County Schools, Marion Elementary and local schools in the Asheville area.
www.myspace.com/alisakuumba
http://www.myspace.com/kuumbadavid

This is our second appearance at the LEAF and we are excited to be a part of the festival again. Our team will be performing, as well as instructing in workshops. If you have ever dreamed of learning what it takes and how it feels to get off the ground, come visit us at the LEAF this fall. We are
always looking for new talent, and hope to inspire you to give aerials a try with Asheville Aerial Arts
http://www.ashevilleaerialarts.com/

Beanie Odell resides in Asheville, NC. A keen ear for nuance and a passion for "getting it right" play a role in Beanie's distinctive fiddling: a clear voice which is at once unique and deeply traditional. Her inspirations include visits to Clare and Donegal, studies with Irish masters Brendan Mulvihill, Seamus Connelly, Tommy Peoples, and Martin Hayes, and friends who share her musical path. Beanie has created a thriving Irish music community in the Asheville area; the host of many Irish sessions, she is a busy fiddle teacher whose students have successfully competed on a national level. She has performed and recorded with the groups Half-Nine and The Red Wellies.

Four time award winner Becki The Balloon Lady is sure to amaze. Said to be the McGuiver of balloons with speed that rivals Jackie Chan's hands. Becki's crazy and colorful inflatable art will blow your mind.

2007 Asheville Area Arts Council Teacher of the Year Award for work with youth poetry at Asheville Middle .LSS

Brandon is a self-taught didgeridoo player who has been building, playing, and teaching for about a decade. He has taught classes at Oberlin College and elsewhere to children,adults, K-12 students, and the handicapped.

Capt. Josh and the CADETS: Local theater artist Josh Batenhorst and the CADETS (Committed Actors Doing Entertaining Theatre Society) of ArtSpace Charter School bring an original performance to life. These committed young artists (grades 6-8) will showcase the power of linking schools and after-school programs with local artists, this show promises to be a unique and fun-filled experience for all ages! Capt. Josh wants YOU to do drama! Join local theatre artist Josh Batenhorst for an exciting (afternoon/morning) of creative drama! Play games, make your own short plays and show-off your ability to show-off! Fun for young and old alike. .LSS

Cary Fridley's singing evokes centuries of Southern voices from Memphis Minnie to Maybelle Carter. Her new band Down South combines the honesty of folk music with the country groove of Asheville, breathing new life into classic country and blues with drums, electric guitar, pedal steel, and electric bass. Influenced by her Virginia mountain childhood and years performing at bluegrass festivals with her previous band, The Freight Hoppers, Cary's natural affinity for folk music shines is highlighted by her ability to reach the heart and soul of an audience. .LSS
http://www.caryfridley.net/index.html

Chess Senior Master Robert will play up to 8 chess games simultaneously, 3 hours on Saturday and Sunday afternoons. His LEAF record for SEVEN Leaf seasons is 264 Wins, 6 Draws, 1 Loss. Robert's 2400 rating makes him the highest rated player in WNC. He has played internationally, been hired by Swiss teams, ranked as high as 16th in France (Over-the-board) and 6th in America (correspondence). Robert has trained world junior champions. He has not played seriously for many years, so score a win while he's rusty and with all the great LEAF distractions twisting his brain!

Kelly Hanson - LEAF staffer for 12+ years and an artist and teacher herself - will be bringing her students from The New Classical Academy in Weaverville, NC to perform. Her focus is to work collaboratively with K-5 students to create original puppet plays. Students read classical literature, work in groups to write original plays, create puppets to represent characters in the play, record their voices to create a soundtrack, and perform LIVE on a custom built puppet stage. .LSS

The Cole Mountain Cloggers are a youth dance team, comprised of 16 members from four counties Mitchell, Madison, Buncombe and Henderson. They range in age from 6 to 16 years and their motto is "Keeping a Mountain Tradition Thriving!" Under the direction of Jeff Atkins, this team has performed for benefits throughout Western North Carolina. In 2007 the team won First Place for Traditional Free-Style Clogging at both the Mountain State Fair in Asheville and the State Fair Folk Festival competition in Raleigh. Jeff stated "It was an overall great experience for the kids to perform and win at the State Fair. We were proud to represent Western Carolina and the dance that originated at the Mountain Dance and Folk Festival by Sam Queen and the Soco Gap Dancers. These talented kids put so much energy, enthusiasm and showmanship into their performance. I am proud that the team is having such a great time and realizes the importance of keeping alive a part of their heritage, while inspiring other young folks to get involved in clogging"

David Lynch moved to Western North Carolina 11 years ago to be closer to the source of the music he loves and plays. David has taught at LEAF, the Swannanoa Gathering, Augusta Heritage Center, and the Festival of American Fiddle Tunes. David is also a graphic designer who created the oldtimemusic.com website, and has designed packaging for hundreds of bluegrass and old-time music recordings. David currently lives in Asheville, NC with the love of his life, contra dance caller Beth Molaro and her daughter Rebecca.
www.oldtimemusic.com

Elkland Art Center is a tool by which the community (from local to global) can grow though promoting individual and group creativity. In simple terms Elkland is a bunch of people who want to have fun making things with and for the communities they live in. Their goal is to work in re-creational settings where people are relaxed and enjoying themselves. We often use old and popular methods of expression like puppets and parades. Puppetry has been street art since it's beginning. Parades are a simple metaphor for individuals moving within a group from one point to another.
http://www.elklandartcenter.org/

The Funky Monkeys provide entertainment for the young as well as the young at heart through a combination of music, jokes and good old-fashioned silliness. Bold audience members have the opportunity to participate, while the more bashful are free to relax and enjoy the show. Get ready to get down with some wild and crazy monkey business!

Graham Hackett is a veteran stage performer and educator with over a decade of professional stage experience with numerous credits as an event producer. In each capacity, his work centers on personal and community development through cultural awareness. As founder and director of POETIX, an experiential arts program centered on spoken-word poetry, Graham serves a broad range of youth populations. He has worked with juvenile inmates, public, private, and charter schools, community centers, and is partners with numerous arts education and social service providers. His work offers the power of personal expression through innovative, media-saturated workshops. .LSS
Besides being designer, director, and a performer of The POETIX Lounge spoken-word event series and The RANT & RAVE: A Celebration of Free Speech, Graham has also performed at The ECHO Project Festival, the Lake Eden Arts Festival, and Lexington Avenue Arts and Fun Festival, as well as Westside Rhyme in New York City.
http://www.poetixonline.com/

Hobey Ford's "Animalia" is a puppetry ballet that takes you into the world of animals. Set to the nature inspired jazz of the Paul Winter Concort, these incredibly realistic puppet creations come to life in the hands of of this celebrated puppetry innovator. Ford has performed internationally for 30 years and is the recipient of three Jim Henson grant awards and a UNIMA Citation of excellence, puppetry's highest honor.

The Hunab Kru is devoted to creating art in the spirit of concious Hip-Hop and embraces the positive roots of Hip-Hop culture. Through movement and dance we challenge our physical limits, Explore individual and collective expression, as well as entertain audienceswith an engaging and enthusiastic performance. The Hunab Kru are also teachers and students. .LSS

Imhotep is a Mardi Gras Indian relocated to Asheville and now teaches at Vance Elementary. .LSS

Jim Nave' brings more than twenty years of experience to the craft of presenting poetry on stage. He is one of the cofounders of Poetry Alive! and has been active of the Poetry Slam community since 1991. In addition, he has memorized over 600 poems and performed thousands of shows in the U.S. and abroad. For the past ten years, he has co-taught with Julia Cameron author of The Artist's Way. Nave' holds his MFA in poetry from Vermont College. He splits his time between Asheville, NC and Taos, NM. .LSS
http://www.jamesnave.com/

Jared McQueen and David Fisher are two juggle crazy boys who always seem to be tossing something through the air. Ready for fun, they juggle anything they can get there hands on including balls, clubs, torches, knives and more. Juggling is both an art form and a meditational practice for these guys, and they encourage everyone to participate in the creative act of juggling.

"...joyously inventive..." is how Jazz Times describes the work of Asheville-based steel drummer Jonathan Scales. Mixing a traditional Caribbean instrument with a contemporary jazz attitude, Jonathan Scales' music pushes the steel pan into the realms of funk, rock, and even bluegrass while still digging into the roots of traditional world sounds such as reggae and Latin. His intricate, instrumental writing combines with metric complexities to weave seamlessly between musical styles. The music world was introduced to Jonathan with his 2007 release, One-Track Mind, which brought him acclaim from steady regional press, consistent radio airplay, and a jammed schedule of live performances ranging from small clubs to packed theaters. This year will usher the release of Jonathan Scales' 2nd studio release Plot/Scheme, featuring drum guru Jeff Sipe & Grammy award winning sax man Jeff Coffin.
http://www.jonscales.com/

Ken is a spinner and his gyroscopic juggling prop is a diabolo. Together, it's art in motion. With over eight years of experience, he makes the yo-yo like toy dance, flow, jump, and land at his command. The diabolo was popular in the Renaissance, in ancient China, turn-of-the-century France, and has been a popular form of LEAF recreation for kids of all ages.

ALL ABOARD...LU-LU! The L train is full of stories and tales with Laura "Lulu" Edmonds conducting where this track leads. Over a decade in and around the Asheville area she has shared her love of storytelling at numerous local events including past LEAFs, Asheville Music Jamboree, Goombay Festival, and more. Add in NYC public schools and South Florida's Langerado and you got one fired up sister to tell tales. Her return to LEAF promises to ignite your imagination with plans of ancient fire tales mixed with another one her passions fire dancing--it's bound to FIRE you up too!

Masankho Banda is a multi-disciplinary Performing Artist, InterPlay Leader, Spiritual Healer, and Peace Builder from Malawi, Central Africa. Masankho learned to dance and tell stories in his country growing up as a child. His Elders also taught him about healing and subtle energy. Masankho brings this learning to all his presentations and classes. All are welcome to come and experience Masankho's gifts. Masankho is the recipient of the "Unsung Heroes of Compassion" Award awarded by His Holiness the Dalai Lama in May, 2001. .LSS http://www.ucandanc.org/

Dance Painting is the creation of Melissa C. Smith, an artist, writer, and Asheville transplant from Western Kentucky. Listening to music and using her feet as her brush, Melissa dances on her canvases, creating colorful, multi-layered abstract paintings full of footprints that are bursting with movement. Melissa is bringing Dance Painting to LEAF's Kids Village for the first time, offering an interactive opportunity for kids to get down and paint with their feet. (Note: This activity is messy, so dress appropriately.)

Mizilca is currently based in Asheville, where she teaches Transformational Bellydance for both children and adults. This approach to the dance integrates movement with energy-work and chakra exploration as well as with the art and joy of storytelling. Mizilca also performs locally, regionally, and nationally and has been a staple part of the LEAF experience for five years! Come share in some gypsy magic movement fun at the Kid's Village with Mizilca! www.transformationalbellydance.com
http://www.transformationalbellydance.com/

Panyard, Inc., World Leaders in Pan Innovation and Technology, crafts Steel Drum Musical Instruments and Accessories. They have combined their passion for the art form, music education, and exceptional customer service to reach the top of the Steel Drum industry.Their mission is to continue innovating and developing new products bringing further excitement to the wonderful world of Steel Drums. Panyard will be featuring their Beginning Steel Drum called the Jumbie Jam. Their booth and performances will be interactive, exposing and educating festival attendees while providing hands-on playing time. http://www.panyard.com/

Visiting from New Delhi India! Classical Indian Dance Odissi Style. Representing the very best of what India has to offer! In a scintillating interpretation of the ancient temple dancing that has been performed as a stage art since India gained her independence, Pratibha is a prime example of the traditional dancer trained from childhood in a style that is passed from generation to generation; history brought to life as the sculptures from the temple walls make their transfixing journey into present day life, meaningful and memorable as a living expression of the divine within each of us. Sonic Bids
http://www.sonicbids.com/epk/epk.aspx?epk_id=153467

Spend some magical time in the waterfront area by playing Giant Chess!

As the sun sets over LEAF, something special happens in front of the fireplace inside Thunderbird Lodge. Friday and Saturday evenings, the vaudeville-style storytelling of Sarah Eshan creates a magical setting entertaining children of all ages. Her stories, characters, and songs take audiences places that span the globe and connect them to ancestral and cultural roots with laughter and the occasional lesson for life. Come experience the storytelling spirits with her!

Simon Wolf, 11, is a second-generation performance poet from Asheville, North Carolina. He has been involved with poetry and with the LEAF festival his entire life, together with his parents Allan Wolf and Ginger West. Simon writes and performs his own poetry, and took on of the top places at LEAF's Youth Poetry Slam last spring.

Skinny Legs & All is Asheville's freshest young band whose members range in age from 13 to 17. Don't let their ages fool you - they are "making waves" on the local music scene knocking out youthful renditions of classic Blues, Funk, & Soul.These gifted performers deliver lip smacking, dance inspiring, mood altering grooves with strong soulful vocals that will lead you on a journey from a slow shuffle to booty grooving madness. Bring your dancing shoes!
http://www.myspace.com/arattraction

Tammy Sawyer lives in Wilkes County, NC and plays the upright bass, guitar and dulcimer. She has been active in the old time music community for over 10 years, playing with many different groups for dances, festivals, parties, and local events. She also works with the Junior Appalachian Musicians program, which provides instruction in traditional music to elementary and middle school students. At LEAF, Tammy will be leading a mountain dulcimer workshop to introduce this wonderful and easy instrument to anyone interested in getting started or increasing their knowledge.

The Blue Fairy (aka Alina Ever on stilts) sprinkles magical fairy dust and blessings of well-being on festival-goers tall and short, young and old, one and all. Close your eyes, make a wish... and so it will be! The Blue Fairy is accompanied on flute by the Prince of Pipes (aka Chris Deerheart).
http://sharingmygold.typepad.com/about.html

10 piece soulful gospel!

Unifire Theater based in Asheville, NC promises to excite the senses with their respectful play with fire. Years of experience with the Flame and with one another Unifire performs with numerous tools including double dutch jump rope, staffs, hoops, poi, and more! It's a show not to be missed when night comes and the spark awakened.
http://www.unifiredance.com/

"Parents' Choice Award Winner Vince Junior is a solid bluesy guitarist with a gift for the simple statement. Highly recommended for folk-rooted families." Acoustic Guitar Magazine http://www.vincejunior.com/

The Warren Wilson College Folk Choir, under the direction of Dr. Milton Crotts, is committed to the performance of a variety of musical styles and the exploration of music and singing traditions of many cultures. These talented college students have grown up in the traditions of folk, world, and classical music. They bring to the stage a diverse interest in Appalachian ballads, Celtic tunes, Early American Shape-note singing, African traditional singing, and Early European music. Their performances are filled with enthusiasm and professionalism. http://www.warren-wilson.edu/~music/

Developing talented,, young jazz musicians.
http://www.youthatjazz.org/