I have always loved radio and I really enjoyed my experience as a writer and host of music documentaries for BBC Radio 2 from 1992 to 2012.
While video and film creates ever-more fantastic images, audiences are forced to see ‘Wonderland’ exactly as the director intends, not as they may have imagined it as a child. But the medium of sound allows the listener to create their own personal world, imagining far more.
The Ballad of Spinaroo uses audio to the full to create a rousing narrative using expressive comic performances, foot-stomping music, and sound effects that put the listener right there in the dusty streets of the Old West. (Careful! Don’t stand next to that spitoon!)
This is a wild adventure complete with a crazy horse, classic western characters, and catchy songs that will have children and grown-ups alike getting in line for a cowboy boogie or a Texas Two Step. The whole package is lovingly produced to the highest standards. Spinaroo, being a horse, gives the whole family a rollicking ride!
Dr. Richard Niles
WEBSITE
https://richardniles.com/
YOUTUBE
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcY13Jb4r_coKPoIV4NXWzA
BOOKS
https://richardniles.com/books/
MUSIC
https://richardniles.com/music/
PRS, BMI, The RECORDING ACADEMY, ASMAC, AFM
Spinaroo has pizzaz! He’s a talking horse for the ages—a whirligig of energized mane and purpose. The distinctive, crusty variety of Old West voices that pepper his saga, galloping tunes that play along apace, and a tale to touch young hearts and imaginations—what a winning combination of surprise and excitement is in store in The Ballad of Spinaroo!
Artful creations featuring strong characters with character don’t come along every day. Children need them in our time more than ever.
“Ghost Riders in the Sky” was a popular song when I was growing up. A version of it was dropped into a recent movie, and it stirred me that this magical element of my childhood needed reviving!
It isn’t easy to encourage imagination, when screens and instant pop-ups seem to be taking over too much ground. But intentionally picturing in the mind can be taught—and Spinaroo has the magic: a spark of newness, with just enough suggestion of a lost “time-gone-by” to do the trick in young minds ready for innovative, multi-level fun.
My eight-year-old grandson would love this creative art, soundtrack, and possible live production. Spinaroo has it all!
Isabel Anders’ - Children's author.
Latest children’s title in her Mother Bilbee Legacy Collection is Twinkle, Twinkle, Shining Star and Row Your Boat Just as You Are! (M. T. Publishing).
This program provides an excellent complement to the “iPad Childhood” era. While our children are raised in a world dominated by social media and visual stimulus dominant content, this program provides an old school imaginative experience to what I had as a young child listening to audiobooks, such as Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings, before bedtime or during long car rides to sports tournaments and vacations.
I would highly recommend this program as a refreshing resource for youthful imagination development in grade school kids, while still being enjoyable and providing some creativity and imagination retraining benefits for parents, teachers, and babysitters.
Austin Quon, DC
Doctor of Chiropractic
Owner/President Third Day Nutrition, Inc.
Costa Mesa, CA
My immediate reaction to this creative and interesting story is utter elation! Not just the content, but the vision and the purpose is equally awe-inspiring. The story itself, about this incredible horse, has captivated my heart, and I firmly believe that anytime you have an endearing horse at the center of your story, you have a masterpiece! Moreover, the blend of old-style 1940s radio storytelling with the flair of a Disney blockbuster sound is pure genius. I was completely enthralled, eagerly anticipating what would happen next. Without any visuals, I could vividly imagine each character in my mind's eye! And I must say, I am thoroughly inspired! As a Minister to Children for over 27 years, I can attest that thousands of families I've worked with have expressed concern over "screen time" and the hijacking of children's imaginations, a concern that resonates nationwide and globally. Thank you for allowing me to experience this joyful, brief journey that transported me to two incredible places: the world of the story itself, and the nostalgic setting of a 1940s American family gathered around the radio, imagining the tale together. To me, this is the epitome of success!
DeVonna Drey
Minister to Children
Peninsula Community Church
Rancho Palos Verdes, California
The Ballad of Spinaroo colors children's imaginations with "epic" stories and sound effects that grip their attention. My son was even disappointed when one ended with a cliffhanger and couldn't wait to listen to the next episode. He could not stop emphasizing how "well-done" it was!!! It is equivalent or even better than Disney productions' sound effects and songs!!!
As a mother, I cannot be more grateful for the excitement stirred up in my young one, especially in a culture that capitalizes on video addictions and meaningless cartoons. This will heighten the listening skills of all and delight auditory learners!! To top it off, the values presented are heartwarming and a blessing to the household!!
The incredible amount of care and talent employed to execute such a production is unfathomable!! It deserves every accolade!! Blessings to this incredible production house!!
Julie Ann Abajian
Architect and Pianist
San Juan Capistrano, California
The Ballad of Spinaroo opens with a whimsical blend of nostalgia and frontier fantasy, establishing a fun and imaginative tone from the outset. The transition from a present-day radio listener to a full-fledged Western tale is engaging and cleverly executed.
The writing does an excellent job of weaving humor, character-driven storytelling, and musical elements. The first song, “Under the Giant Western Sky,” is a highlight—rich with harmonies, character perspectives, and thematic depth that evoke a sense of community and resilience in the Old West.
The characters are vivid and distinct, particularly Pick Axe Paul, whose quirky charm adds levity, and Sheriff Bob Britestar, who brings a heroic and romantic presence. The mysterious arrival of the magical horse, Spinaroo, sets up a compelling central mystery and emotional anchor for the series.
The Ballad of Spinaroo delivers a fun and imaginative continuation of the Western-themed tale. The writing effectively blends humor, fantasy, and character-driven storytelling, introducing high-energy moments and playful dialogue that keep the pace lively and engaging.
The character of Spinaroo, a mysterious horse showcasing near-magical abilities that drive both plot and wonder. Musical interludes and quick comedic beats are well-timed, adding charm without distracting from the narrative.
With its mix of humor, heart, and high-quality musical storytelling, Spinaroo is an engaging and promising story successfully balancing frontier folklore with light-hearted fantasy.
Chris Halon
Senior Manager Marketing Operation
Yamaha Corporation
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