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CONNORVILLE -- Percussionist Elec Simon, a Buckeye Local alum, will bring his music and personal message back to the district with a series of appearances at schools this week. A Smithfield native and Buckeye Local High School graduate, Simon now resides in Orlando, Fla. He is scheduled to speak at Buckeye Local Junior-Senior High School at 12:30 p.m. Thursday. He will then visit South Elementary at 2 p.m.
He will return to the district Friday, speaking at North Elementary at 9:30 a.m. and West Elementary at 1:30 p.m. Simon is known for entertaining crowds off-Broadway and in traveling shows for "STOMP." And yet, he has always returned to his roots at Buckeye Local to share with others his program and to entertain those in his former hometown with his percussion talents -- which includes audience participation.
Simon took his chance on the Great White Way after departing the University of Akron in 2002, performing on the streets and in subway platforms before becoming part of the off-Broadway hit show. He spent more than a decade touring the country, finally settling in Canton, where he decided to give back to the community. A friend's death inspired him as a youth. He began speaking in schools, incorporating rhythm with a full band, into an anti-bullying program.
Superintendent Coy Sudvary said Simon's visit will be a tremendous event. He stated Simon has captivated students with his wisdom, energy and musical abilities. "It's a great opportunity," Sudvary stated. "Elec reached out to us and was going to be back in Ohio. It's been a few years since he's been back in the district and he's such a dynamic speaker. It's always good for the kids to see his success and hear his positive message." Simon will be appearing at other schools throughout the area this month, including Malvern in Carroll County. For those who are not familiar with his stage performances, his song, "Learn How to Love" is currently on iTunes.