By Samantha Wantling
International best-selling children’s author, musician and performer Deano Yipadee brought his celebrated sense of fun to Warwick and Stanthorpe last week (28 June) as part of an initiative organised by the Southern Downs Libraries.
Deano, more often referred to as Mr Yipadee because his surname just seems to fit his on-stage persona, has topped the best-seller charts in the UK, New Zealand and Australia multiple times for his children’s books.
Deano made sure his Southern Downs performances involved both children and parents, with special appearances from Rod the Royal Guard, Granny and her Underpants and even the Fire Chief of the Southern Downs.
“It is so important to foster creativity, laughter and inspiration in children’s lives,” Deano said.
“Children naturally giggle and laugh until their bellies ache. They instinctively desire to love and be loved, and to feel grounded and secure within themselves.
“They genuinely believe in all possibilities, and go wherever their unencumbered imaginations take them.”
“My vision is to help all children flourish and grow knowing they are significant, individual, and capable; that their potential and dreams lie at a determined arm’s reach.”
Deano’s performances only took an hour at each centre, but the high giggle rate per hour made it worthwhile for the children who attended.
