Mary Catherine Jones

Some of the stock characters that make "regular" appearances in my reading include the uptight, overstuffed intellectual with a slightly British accent, the "local rube" (Ay-yup...), bratty daughter/son, spoiled princess, spazzed out hedgehog, reticent/withdrawn wife/mother daughter, the charming, romantic "french" lover, the snarky, snide, evil doer, the foolish, bumbling newcomer, smart hero(ine), terrified victim, friendly Texan, clipped policy maker etc.

I have been a children's performer for over 13 years, specializing in bringing picture and chapter books to life through animated narrations, goofy characterizations, music, songs and movement. In my "grown-up" life, I have given lectures and conducted workshops on reading with children, reader's theater and children's literacy. Prior to my involvement with children's literacy, I was National Sales Director for an International Publishing Company (Inner Traditions International) and made frequent sales presentations all over the country and in the UK. I am comfortable with a wide range of texts and scripts - from elementary to technical. I grew up in the Washington DC area and graduated from one of the local prep-schools (giving me a "neutral - educated" affect in my regular speaking voice). I graduated with a BS in Psychology from Vassar College. I have been involved in many high-school, college and post-college theatrical productions both as an actor and as a director. I have been singing (range:soprano to tenor) since I was in elementary school and continue to perform with local bands and for children every week. In addition, I am a graduate of the Such-A-Voice voice-talent training program. Digidesign 2x2 Pro Tools 8 LE System NTG2 - Rode Shotgun Mic I offer quick turn around. I am competent and reliable and take direction well. I love books, history, politics and psychology. In addition to the skills listed above, I am co-chair of our school PTO (7+ years now) (which speaks to my organization skills and my persistence!) I have been a board-member of the Children's Literacy Foundation since it's inception 11 years ago and have been a reading mentor for Everybody Wins! for 5 years. I love to read out loud and I love to learn.