Riverboat John Ferguson-Songs-Strings-Stories, Blountsville, AL
Award Winning Entertainment-Listed with National Endowment for the Arts, Southern Arts Federation, National Storyteller Assn., Alabama & Numerous State Councils for the Arts, Member IAFE, and Numerous State Fair Associations.
YouTube Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GA7PI1R6RPU
songs-strings-stories-stage-strolling-speaking
Author of The Adventures of Riverboat John Ferguson-Glimpses of Huntsville in the 1950's-The History Press-Charleston
It’s a rare thing these days to spend time listening to the old stories, quips, songs & anecdotes of the past. “Riverboat John” has developed a style of programs that fit or adapt to just about any venue you might mention. His love for the music, history, heritage and customs cause the lore, romance & intrigue as a story unfolds itself in front of you as if you were stepping right back in time with him. The boatman, pioneer, cowboy, sailor, traveling man or adventurer comes alive. His programs are a good mix that will hold the attention span of any crowd from Pre-School thru Senior Adults. He grew up mostly on the Tennessee River & got his 1st banjo about age 5. His mother Sarah, a native Newfoundlander, played the piano & was a storyteller. His Grandfather Samuel A. Ferguson, told him tales of his exploits in the Spanish American War & the adventurers of his Great-Grandfather Joseph W. Ferguson in the Civil War. “Riverboat John” went to Greenwich Village after high school to join the Folk Revival Era. He attended Southern Illinois University & received his degree from George Washington University after serving in the Army. He has developed a unique style of entertainment as a result of his travels and experiences. Parents Magazine has recognized him for his children’s programming. Highlights of his career have been The Atlanta Olympics, Chautauqua Institute, New York, The Smithsonian Theatre, Washington, New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, riding and entertaining on the rivers of the USA & entertaining school children with highly driven-curriculum oriented educational programs. He has recorded numerous albums, written & produced movie sound tracks, performed with symphonies, written & conducted numerous educational programs & seminars for teachers & students, been a featured after-dinner speaker & convention entertainer. In addition to stage work, He still considers himself the “Premier Strolling Song & Story Act” as he continues to remain up-front-and-personal with his audiences.
