Testimonials "John made the CCEDC annual meeting a memorable experience for our guests!
His lively, whip cracking and inspiring message was well received with a lot of positive feedback from those who attended." ~Jerilyn Sahr, Chippewa County Economic Development Corporation "John is a dynamic and experienced speaker who can motivate audiences and show them what is possible within themselves. His work can lead to significant improvements in personal and business results." -- Jerry Quinn President, NTP INC and Chemicals Consultant "I can’t say enough about John C. Davis, and the Action Hero talk he gave to our crew. His presentation “Action Hero, not a Reaction Zero” gave our team a new way of looking at how their roles within the organization were positions from which each of them could produce greatness. We had used terminology like Superheroes, but John gave us the thought that whereas Superheroes (besides being very rare), produced results only in relation to their specific sets of powers; the Action Heroes use their personal Skill Sets and the Assets at hand to take strategic actions and achieve super results. My team found this to be a concept they could embrace, presented in a fun and entertaining manner." -- Rhonni DuBose Owner/Manager Queen’s Pantry "It is my pleasure to highly recommend John Davis as a speaker . Through my company, Susan Duval Seminars, I have hosted him twice in Doylestown, PA. Both times, he was very well received by the community. John's seminars were outstanding and were booked solid. I received wonderful feedback from the attendees, and many who saw him the first time returned to see him again. John is very easy to work with, and is a pleasure to host. He has helped many people in this community, and I am looking forward to hosting him again." - Susan Duval, www.SusanDuvalSeminars.com “It has been my privilege to work with John Davis for several years. He teaches messages of personal growth and team productivity in a fun, interactive and very effective way. An ideal team-building exercise for any company or group!” - Holly Matson, Owner Lightseeds Office "I would strongly urge you to schedule John Davis to speak at your organization. His incredible stories and his powerful experiences are sure to inspire and delight your audience." ~Jeanne Grimes President MHHC Canton, OH "John has appeared as a guest on my radio program at www.RadioOutThere.com on several occasions. I respect his integrity and ethics and know him to be dedicated and sincere. He is a genuine 'people person' and has the ability to help and guide others to achieve their potential in life." - Barry Eaton Australian Radio Personality "Working with John in a Lifecoaching capacity has been a very pivotal point in my life. Each of the sessions highlighted a new approach to working with all aspects of my life....home, finances, relationships, career. I felt like I was sorting out issues with a trusted friend who clearly and frankly showed me where I have been tripping myself up and how to simply shift my perceptions about the way I see life! I feel like I have been instilled with hope and inspiration for a purposeful future! His humour and integrity have been inspiring! I would highly recommend the LifeCoaching Sessions to everyone!" ~ LKC “John is a superb instructor in the areas of theatrical combat, with particular skill in the uses of a whip, and the manipulation and handling of stage swords and daggers. He is extremely adept in these disciplines, and plays with a great command of the action and a magnificent sense of fun. In his shows from the Duo of "Hack 'n Slash" he demonstrates tremendous skill with both weapon and word. In his teaching, he shares these same skills freely and generously with all participants. The student has the opportunity to learn and enjoy the process at the same time. Imagine that! He is a highly skilled professional, with an open and generous humanity; exceptional people skills. I really enjoy working with this man. On a side note; John carries a small line of very reasonably priced stage weapons, swords and such, durable and a pleasure to handle." - J-P. Fournier, MFA, BFA, Fight Master "I was a student in John's whip class. I found him to be an observant teacher with concise feedback. Also, he's a fantastic performer, so the class was entertaining as well as informative. You can't lose when you're working with him!" - Siobhan Richardson Actress, Singer, Dancer, Fight Instructor, Fight Director "John Davis is a fantastic human being and performer. As a teacher, he is perceptive, encouraging, and have a wealth of knowledge in his field. As a student, it is easy to absorb his teachings. You can't get lost with him as a teacher" - Aslög Hildebrand Director, Drama teacher, Stagecombat Choreographer, Actor “John is a fantastic fight director and one of the best instructors I know. His attention to detail, attitude and love of the art make his work shine. I also have had the opportunity to direct a production he wrote, and his skills as a playwright match those of his as a fight director. I would work with John anytime.” - John Lennox, Founding Fight Director, Art of Combat, inc “John Davis directed my play HOLMES for the Weathervane Playhouse in Akron, Ohio. I would recommend him for any future project! He was exceptional on (at least) three counts: first, he proved a wonderful director/mentor for the young people in the cast--extraordinarily patient, enthusiastic, gentle--and instilled in them a passion and commitment to bringing to the hall their best attention and work; second, he was instrumental for helping to fine-tune structure, character, and language weaknesses in this first production of my script; finally, he brought to the project just the proper spirit of inventiveness, vitality and strong storytelling. And I must add that John is a wonderful fight choreographer--the fights in HOLMES were among the production's highlights. Respectfully submitted"-- Derek Davidson, PhD Appalachian State University “To put it simply, John Davis is a superb fight choreographer. He created perfect choreography for Romeo & Juliet at FPAC, training the young people involved in safe swordsmanship and hand to hand. He also was careful to create fights that were character specific and served the story and overall director's concept. He also did fight choreography and created and forged props for Peter Pan at Beck Center. He forged and created swords and knives, and other Neverland props that fit perfectly within the concept for the production - to look like the lost boys made them and that were "art nouveau." And once again, his fight choreography for the Pan/Hook fight and ensuing battle with the entire cast was creative and fun. I recommend John as one of the top artists at his craft. Hire him - you won't be sorry!” -Fred Sternfeld, Artistic Director Fairmont Performing Art Center “I have had the pleasure to work with Mr. Davis in class and to watch him perform on stage. Mr. Davis is a knowledgeable instructor that is able to impart his knowledge in an entertaining way.” - Steaphen Fick, Owner/Instructor, Davenriche European Martial Artes School “John is a tremendous talent. He is not only a gifted performer and fantastic teacher but turned himself into a very accomplished sword smith as well. I have been very fortunate in the short amount of time I get to work with John as our lives generally keep us apart. Whenever I get the chance I will work with John again. He is simply a terrific resource.” - Dan Levinson Fight Master, Fight Directors Canada |
Letters From Soldiers
Subject Hack and Slash in Iraq
Hey All,
This e-mail should find you nice and tired from your trip in Iraq. I'd like to say that between the other Entertainers that I've escorted, you guy's were without a doubt the Best so far. Not only in Entertainment value, but as People. It was an enjoyable week. Here are some of my Personal Feelings from the past week;
Upon my arrival in Kuwait to meet Hack and Slash I was introduced to a Larger than Life individual, John Davis, Aka HACK. A man with Many talents, and a heart larger than he. Took the time to Show me how to PROPERLY use a Bullwhip. Granted it took the entire trip until I figured out how to do it with out damaging myself in the process. Now I'm addicted and must purchase one for myself. Without a doubt made sure that we all got to the DFAC (Chow Hall) on time, or at least let me Know when we had to start Moving to one. It was just one Phrase to get my attention, which was "FAT MAN WALK'N". This was the Call sign for, take me to food Now. Always made sure that I kept a sense of humor, even when I was dead on my feet. Of course even when I told him I was good to go, he would just look at me and know I was running on empty.
Of Course there's Spencer Humm Aka SLASH. The Glue that keeps the whole thing going. Always making sure that each and every site was good to go and the Man that made the show THE SHOW. The Facilitator of laughter. His mind always working overtime, even during and after the show, analyzing it piece by piece, tweaking each portion with the input of everyone involved. Each show got better and better, with the addition of improv at each and every one. A man of many talents, which were not always apparent until you sat down and started talking about different topics. For anyone out there reading this, if your privileged enough to be able to hang out with them during set up for a show, know one thing, Don't get loud during sound check. This could cause immediate, scorn from Spencer. Ok, so that was a poke, a fun poke, but a poke none the less.
Todd Key as I found out from listening to the many conversations, is part of the Zucchini Brothers (did I get that right?). He is an awesome guy. Mister dangerous to most by watching his act. Was able to pull responses from many when it was apparent they didn't want to cooperate with the show. This was especially evident during the first Show with the Special Forces Guy's. That's a hard crowd to make laugh, but yet when it seemed all was lost, Todd pulled it off by showing his Armpits. I never thought showing your armpits could do that. I tried it when I made it back to Baghdad, but for some reason, I didn't get the same response Todd did. It must have been his hat. Not an easily startled man either. I tried to wake him up in my most subtle way, by screaming at him, but he just looked up with that, "is there a reason why your in my room at 0630 in the morning". The man just doesn't know a good time when he hears it. That can't be said for Hack and Slash who set a new world's record by coming off there beds in Unison from a sleeping position some 12 possibly 13 inches when confronted with the rath that is known only as SFC FOLEY and his morning alarm clock. They'll have to tell the rest of the Story. Some of the language isn't for the faint of heart. Let's just say it had something to do with the Groin area and some socks. I think there was a Spring Break comment in there someplace as well. A good time had by all.
Last, But no Least, David Vandaveer, a man of few words. He doesn't miss much. Like I said he doesn't say much until it's time to get on stage, and then watch out. A great sense of humor, and a dynamite Juggler. Is anyone using the word Dynamite in America anymore. Good thing I'm in Iraq. Watching Dave and Todd Juggle to Sanford and Son theme song was hysterical. It got a laugh from everyone when they started playing the music and before the show was over you could hear the crowd humming it to themselves. I'm still doing it while typing this. Got to get it out of my Head. I'll sing Volaray instead. (Spell Check anyone?) David's since of Humor caught me off guard in the beginning, but you just kind of warm up to it pretty quick. The twirling Chinese sticks of fire from the Philippines was great. Set off almost every fire alarm in Iraq. Good thing we had the fire department there. God knows the mayhem that could have ensued. It was a big hit with everyone. You would have thought he was a smoker with the amount of cigarettes he got. He almost got taken out a couple of times with the Flying packs of smokes and Lighters that came his way.
I have to say all in all, that was one trip that will not be forgotten anytime soon, nor will the individuals that brought the laughter to Iraq. These are People that didn't have to travel to this godforsaken country, but did so, with great risk to themselves so they could bring smiles, laughter, and a bit of home to all the Soldiers here, and for that we are all grateful. If there is anyone other than the the above mentioned reading this and you get the opportunity to meet them face to face, shake there hand and thank them for what they have done for all the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines serving in the Middle East and for continuing to support us over here by reminding those at home that we're still here. To Hack and Slash, Todd and David thank you for a great week of fun, a diversion from the Daily Grind, and a reason to start going to renaissance festivals.
Sincerely,
Chris Foley
SFC, USA
Hey All,
This e-mail should find you nice and tired from your trip in Iraq. I'd like to say that between the other Entertainers that I've escorted, you guy's were without a doubt the Best so far. Not only in Entertainment value, but as People. It was an enjoyable week. Here are some of my Personal Feelings from the past week;
Upon my arrival in Kuwait to meet Hack and Slash I was introduced to a Larger than Life individual, John Davis, Aka HACK. A man with Many talents, and a heart larger than he. Took the time to Show me how to PROPERLY use a Bullwhip. Granted it took the entire trip until I figured out how to do it with out damaging myself in the process. Now I'm addicted and must purchase one for myself. Without a doubt made sure that we all got to the DFAC (Chow Hall) on time, or at least let me Know when we had to start Moving to one. It was just one Phrase to get my attention, which was "FAT MAN WALK'N". This was the Call sign for, take me to food Now. Always made sure that I kept a sense of humor, even when I was dead on my feet. Of course even when I told him I was good to go, he would just look at me and know I was running on empty.
Of Course there's Spencer Humm Aka SLASH. The Glue that keeps the whole thing going. Always making sure that each and every site was good to go and the Man that made the show THE SHOW. The Facilitator of laughter. His mind always working overtime, even during and after the show, analyzing it piece by piece, tweaking each portion with the input of everyone involved. Each show got better and better, with the addition of improv at each and every one. A man of many talents, which were not always apparent until you sat down and started talking about different topics. For anyone out there reading this, if your privileged enough to be able to hang out with them during set up for a show, know one thing, Don't get loud during sound check. This could cause immediate, scorn from Spencer. Ok, so that was a poke, a fun poke, but a poke none the less.
Todd Key as I found out from listening to the many conversations, is part of the Zucchini Brothers (did I get that right?). He is an awesome guy. Mister dangerous to most by watching his act. Was able to pull responses from many when it was apparent they didn't want to cooperate with the show. This was especially evident during the first Show with the Special Forces Guy's. That's a hard crowd to make laugh, but yet when it seemed all was lost, Todd pulled it off by showing his Armpits. I never thought showing your armpits could do that. I tried it when I made it back to Baghdad, but for some reason, I didn't get the same response Todd did. It must have been his hat. Not an easily startled man either. I tried to wake him up in my most subtle way, by screaming at him, but he just looked up with that, "is there a reason why your in my room at 0630 in the morning". The man just doesn't know a good time when he hears it. That can't be said for Hack and Slash who set a new world's record by coming off there beds in Unison from a sleeping position some 12 possibly 13 inches when confronted with the rath that is known only as SFC FOLEY and his morning alarm clock. They'll have to tell the rest of the Story. Some of the language isn't for the faint of heart. Let's just say it had something to do with the Groin area and some socks. I think there was a Spring Break comment in there someplace as well. A good time had by all.
Last, But no Least, David Vandaveer, a man of few words. He doesn't miss much. Like I said he doesn't say much until it's time to get on stage, and then watch out. A great sense of humor, and a dynamite Juggler. Is anyone using the word Dynamite in America anymore. Good thing I'm in Iraq. Watching Dave and Todd Juggle to Sanford and Son theme song was hysterical. It got a laugh from everyone when they started playing the music and before the show was over you could hear the crowd humming it to themselves. I'm still doing it while typing this. Got to get it out of my Head. I'll sing Volaray instead. (Spell Check anyone?) David's since of Humor caught me off guard in the beginning, but you just kind of warm up to it pretty quick. The twirling Chinese sticks of fire from the Philippines was great. Set off almost every fire alarm in Iraq. Good thing we had the fire department there. God knows the mayhem that could have ensued. It was a big hit with everyone. You would have thought he was a smoker with the amount of cigarettes he got. He almost got taken out a couple of times with the Flying packs of smokes and Lighters that came his way.
I have to say all in all, that was one trip that will not be forgotten anytime soon, nor will the individuals that brought the laughter to Iraq. These are People that didn't have to travel to this godforsaken country, but did so, with great risk to themselves so they could bring smiles, laughter, and a bit of home to all the Soldiers here, and for that we are all grateful. If there is anyone other than the the above mentioned reading this and you get the opportunity to meet them face to face, shake there hand and thank them for what they have done for all the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines serving in the Middle East and for continuing to support us over here by reminding those at home that we're still here. To Hack and Slash, Todd and David thank you for a great week of fun, a diversion from the Daily Grind, and a reason to start going to renaissance festivals.
Sincerely,
Chris Foley
SFC, USA
Dear K.A.R.L., I am Captain Michael Sapp, and I attended your performance in FOB [Base Omitted], in the International Zone in Iraq [Date Omitted]. I don't know how often during your travels that you have photos with familiar friends or Iraqi Generals, so, just in case, I'm sending these three.
Thank you, for your wonderful entertainment, and for your support of the Services. It means a lot.
Sincerely,
Michael Sapp Captain, US Army
Thank you, for your wonderful entertainment, and for your support of the Services. It means a lot.
Sincerely,
Michael Sapp Captain, US Army
Subject: Army Times Reporter
To Spencer and John:
I saw your show at FOB Summerall in Bayji on March 28 and I just want to tell you how much I enjoyed it. It was stunning, actually, and I'll never forget it.
I am a reporter with Army Times and I've traveled several times since the beginning of operations in Iraq to spend a couple of months embedded with the troops (I swear, it's not like it sounds), so I can appreciate the effort it takes for you guys to do what you do. I know they really appreciate it.
If you're in the area and get thirsty, I know several places to have beer and trade war stories.
Cheers!
Gina
To Spencer and John:
I saw your show at FOB Summerall in Bayji on March 28 and I just want to tell you how much I enjoyed it. It was stunning, actually, and I'll never forget it.
I am a reporter with Army Times and I've traveled several times since the beginning of operations in Iraq to spend a couple of months embedded with the troops (I swear, it's not like it sounds), so I can appreciate the effort it takes for you guys to do what you do. I know they really appreciate it.
If you're in the area and get thirsty, I know several places to have beer and trade war stories.
Cheers!
Gina
You guys are great, I would like to thank you all for taking time to visit my brothers and sisters overseas. As a veteran Marine, I truly feel that the morale of the troops is an important thing. Above all of that, you have shown that there are some people who support our troops, even though they might not support the war.
You are truly patriots and a positive role model for every person to emulate.
Thank you so much,
Shaun Raines
USMC 0311/CPL.
Semper Fi
You are truly patriots and a positive role model for every person to emulate.
Thank you so much,
Shaun Raines
USMC 0311/CPL.
Semper Fi
