Rob Evans - The Donut Man - is known for his fun, yet instructive Bible story-songs presented via DVD's, CD's and live concerts. He is a 'Donut Repair Man'... Why? He uses a donut to illustrate how something can be good, and yet still have something missing. On the most basic level, kids get to fill the hole in a donut with a pastry ball and then eat it! This 'edible object-lesson' points to a profound truth: that we are all made in God's image, and have a "God-shaped empty-place that only God can fill!
That's why every 'Donut Man' CD, DVD and concert shows how God's love 'repairs' our lives. The Bible-story songs are interesting, sing-able and engaging because they are sung from the "first-person" perspective; Daniel is sung by the Lion, the Mustard Seed sings about faith, etc. The "Just For Kids" series then mixes these "Songs That Teach" with "Songs That Praise" so as to present a different aspect of God's character. In "King of Kings", God is presented as king; in "The Farmer", God as a "Farmer", etc.. Each title adds a different nuance, a fresh story-line to this over-all positive and faith-based concept. For example, in the DVD title, "Barnyard Fun", 'God-as-the-Farmer' concept is presented, obviously, at a farm. The Donut Man and kids learn as they help 'Farmer Jim', that likewise, God will also be working with them to produce His fruitfulness in them: the Fruit of the Spirit.
A personal letter from The Donut Man himself...
Fall 2008
Dear DonutFriends:
Donut Cry. Christmas is fast approaching, and "The Best Present of All" was, is and remains... Jesus . As a story-teller, I never get tired of presenting God's great Gift to us. Jesus Christ, the living, breathing Word of God truly is the source of our new and true Identity. Although we lost our 'script' because of sin, now the 'Family of God' gathers in Heaven, on Earth, and in the pages of Holy Scripture to point the way; to a Communion that restores our true Story. I believe with all of my heart that the lives of Noah, Abraham, Moses, David, and Company all pointed and continue to point toward Jesus Christ as the only One who could truly "explain their behavior". And now perhaps, to explain mine:
As a child of divorce(s) and as product of the teen culture of the '60's and '70's, I know what it is like to lose my identity. My wife Shelley is also a child of divorce. We met in church as teens, married, had six children, one of whom we adopted as a five year old from an orphanage in Russia. (An on-going challenge!) Now that we also have six young grandchildren, I trust that you will welcome our passion to reach children for Christ. Shelley and I collaborate, as I use my gifts of song to glorify God, His ways, and the Life He holds out for us. Shelley loves to use her gifts of administration behind the scenes for our ministry. Our journey of thirty five years has taken us from the 'Kumbayah-days' of the Jesus-people-style (complete with baptism in a lake), to West-coast 'surfing-for-Jesus', to heart-land Bible studies, to East Coast Liturgical and Sacramental experiences. This has produced songs that embrace the broad American experience of Christianity, with a celebration of the things that tend to really unite us: Bible-based songs that introduce children to wonderful characters, and therefore, Character. Our lastest CD, "Paul in a Basket", presents the Apostle Paul as a man who lived a life of Christian faith and adventure. Initially an enemy of the gospel, then, transformed by his encounter with Christ, I think Paul teaches about Christ's ways better than anyone ever has or perhaps ever will. This musical is for 5 to 12 year olds, and for adults who like to 'get rowdy'! Acting out the songs and the teachings with every-day props, his key adventures and teachings are presented by kids, teens and adults for children, their parents, and the church. This is not "Donut Man and Duncan" driven; rather this can be done anywhere by anyone with just a little practice; especially for churches that have a lot of kids and no money!
The Donut Man in Concert
I would love to visit your church, your parish or school to give a live performance. I specialize in out-door events and family gatherings. I have written VBS materials for 25 years, and am used often for Vacation Bible School events. Some churches encourage their kid's
choirs learn my songs so they can help me sing them during the concert.
This is a great way to bring your kids together to kick off your season,
(whatever it may be), with lots of fun, excitement and energy.
My "Best Present of All" is a great way to celebrate Christmas,
and the "Resurrection Celebration" is a great way to celebrate Easter.
A lot of churches call me to 'kick-off' their curriculum goals for the year,
and I custom-make a concert just for the 'Readings of the Season'.
I specialize in First Communion retreats, and have a concert I call, "Hide and Seek"; talk about Grace... surely communion is far more about Christ seeking us than us seeking Him! There are few artists that specialize in concerts for young families, and that is what I do best.
E-mail us at concertinfo@donutman.com for information. We work hard to coordinate several concerts in your area; up to three a day; to keep costs down and to share travel expense. I have stayed in many a rectory to save hotel bills!
The Donut Man as a Keynote Speaker
In addition to performing in concert, I can also speak to your group about the essential elements
of child and whole family faith formation. With the knowledge and experience gained while working as
The Donut Man for more than 25 years, I can likely handle any related topic you may request.
We hope to see you soon and "donut" forget: "Life without Jesus is like a donut, 'cause there's a hole in the middle of your heart!"
God Bless,
Rob Evans (The Donut Man) and Duncan