Dino Ocean Up

Lighton Prize for Teaching Excellence
“We are pleased to present the 2014 Lighton Prize to Dino O’Dell for his exceptional artistry, creativity, loyalty and dedication to arts education. Dino brings great enthusiasm and genuineness to his programs, creating excellent rapport with his young audiences.” Martin English, Director, Kansas City Young Audiences
3 Girls
“My 3 girls and I love Dino’s songs and have had many happy times singing, laughing and learning with him!” - Betsy Masalskis, Mom, St. Louis, Missouri
Lighton Prize
Each year KCYA selects a teaching artist from our roster to receive the Lighton Prize for Teaching Excellence. Somebody who demonstrates commitment to and excellence in the artistic education of young people. Dino O'Dell is an artist who can manage a gymnasium full of Kindergarteners and never lose his cool. He works tirelessly to improve his work and, most importantly, he inspires kindness in his students and to those of us who are lucky enough to work alongside him. - Kara Armstrong, Director of Education, Kansas City Young Audiences
Silliness
“With his kid-approved sense of energetic silliness (just listen to songs, such as "The Peanut Butter Pond" or "Worms - They Really Hit the Spot" for proof) and chameleonic, folk-rooted guitar work, it's no wonder Dino has a rock star following with our patrons." - Shaen Pogue, Ozark Regional Library, Missouri
Toddlers
“Driving with toddlers will never be the same. They LOVE Itty Bitty Monsters. Not only are they entertained but they are actually LEARNING!” - Deborah Edwards, Mom, Las Vegas, Nevada