Testimonial 2005 - 2007 Boys creativity program
Kitsiri worked with the INTERNATIONAL CENTRE FOR EXCELLENCE from 2005-2007 running BOY STUFF workshops for us.
Kitsiri quickly establishes empathy with the children and really engages and enthuses them! He was able to inspire the boys in his care and helped them to perceive the wonderful gifts and talents they all have buried deep inside them. Kitsiri had a very organised approach and always planned the sessions thoroughly. His emphasis on art, music and dance really helped the boys to express their emotions and discover themselves. The parents were delighted with the results, the boys LOVED their time with Kitsiri, and we would not hesitate to work with Kitsiri again. He is a wonderful, warm and talented presenter and very suited to working with children!
Victoria Carlton (Director International Centre For Excellence www.ice-au.com )
Kitsiri quickly establishes empathy with the children and really engages and enthuses them! He was able to inspire the boys in his care and helped them to perceive the wonderful gifts and talents they all have buried deep inside them. Kitsiri had a very organised approach and always planned the sessions thoroughly. His emphasis on art, music and dance really helped the boys to express their emotions and discover themselves. The parents were delighted with the results, the boys LOVED their time with Kitsiri, and we would not hesitate to work with Kitsiri again. He is a wonderful, warm and talented presenter and very suited to working with children!
Victoria Carlton (Director International Centre For Excellence www.ice-au.com )
Testimonial 2012 Storytelling - children's workshop
On Saturday 10th March 2012 I had the wonderful opportunity to watch and participate in Kitsiri DeSilva’s Interactive storytelling workshop in Bibra lake.
Kitsiri had a beautiful set up under a wonderful tree with blankets, cushions and many story books beside him. We all kicked off our shoes and found a cosy place to sit and began to listen.
Kitsiri started off with explaining that he will read a story. He asked us all to listen to the way he used his voice ie; different pitches, voices, and creative noises. He also asked us to watch the way he delivered the story when reading it to us. Ie/ facial expressions, and how he would use himself and the book as props.
Kitsiri began to read and within the first page you could see the group of children & adults (various ages) attention change, they were instantly captivated in what he was reading. Kitsiri would use his voice in many ways from being certain characters, to the wind in the trees. Kitsiri’s facial expressions at times were more interesting than the pictures in the book, as he ‘became one’ with the character he was portraying. Kitsiri would stop after a few pages, to explain the importance of using voices, expressions, and mostly knowing the book you are about to present. Kitsiri would ask open ended questions to his audience, who all easily were able to answer from what he had just presented. Watching his audience, they were smiling, nodding, laughing and leaning forward to see what would happen next. At times Kitsiri would use the book as a prop, like the Owl flying up to his tree top house, Kitsiri used the book as a bird flapping its large wings, he also used his voice for the sound effect of each wing flapping higher and higher.
Having just showed his audience how easy and fun it can be, it was our turn. We all chose a book to read over and to present to a peer. Kitsiri stayed close by and helped throughout with tips, feedback and encouragement. This was a beautiful, friendly and calm way to easily practice our own voices, pitches, and of course facial expressions through stories. Once we all mastered it, we all communicated how we felt, and provided feedback.
This workshop was an extremely interactive, fun, calm and encouraging way to jump out of ones ‘comfort’ zone and to try something a bit different.
Kitsiri showed his knowledge, skills and mostly experience in this area and it was an extreme pleasure to be a part of. Within the time I spent at Kitsiri’s workshop the audience doubled, and he even had people standing not far away listening and laughing at the wonderful stories he was presenting.
I highly recommend Kitsiri and this type of workshop for anyone who wants to bring the fun back into story telling. Childcare, School settings, as well students who are training to be Educators would also highly benefit from this; as Kitsiri is calm, fun, helpful and creates a safe environment to practice, and play with reading different stories. Kitsiri is extremely professional, and has a strong knowledge in all that he presents. I feel honoured to have had the opportunity to watch and be involved in Kitsiri’s story telling workshop. I took along two other Ladies from my Child Care Centre, who I observed instantly bringing all they learnt back into the Centre and having fun with each story they told. Thank you Kitsiri for bringing the fun back into story telling.
Danielle Temperley (ECT)
Kitsiri had a beautiful set up under a wonderful tree with blankets, cushions and many story books beside him. We all kicked off our shoes and found a cosy place to sit and began to listen.
Kitsiri started off with explaining that he will read a story. He asked us all to listen to the way he used his voice ie; different pitches, voices, and creative noises. He also asked us to watch the way he delivered the story when reading it to us. Ie/ facial expressions, and how he would use himself and the book as props.
Kitsiri began to read and within the first page you could see the group of children & adults (various ages) attention change, they were instantly captivated in what he was reading. Kitsiri would use his voice in many ways from being certain characters, to the wind in the trees. Kitsiri’s facial expressions at times were more interesting than the pictures in the book, as he ‘became one’ with the character he was portraying. Kitsiri would stop after a few pages, to explain the importance of using voices, expressions, and mostly knowing the book you are about to present. Kitsiri would ask open ended questions to his audience, who all easily were able to answer from what he had just presented. Watching his audience, they were smiling, nodding, laughing and leaning forward to see what would happen next. At times Kitsiri would use the book as a prop, like the Owl flying up to his tree top house, Kitsiri used the book as a bird flapping its large wings, he also used his voice for the sound effect of each wing flapping higher and higher.
Having just showed his audience how easy and fun it can be, it was our turn. We all chose a book to read over and to present to a peer. Kitsiri stayed close by and helped throughout with tips, feedback and encouragement. This was a beautiful, friendly and calm way to easily practice our own voices, pitches, and of course facial expressions through stories. Once we all mastered it, we all communicated how we felt, and provided feedback.
This workshop was an extremely interactive, fun, calm and encouraging way to jump out of ones ‘comfort’ zone and to try something a bit different.
Kitsiri showed his knowledge, skills and mostly experience in this area and it was an extreme pleasure to be a part of. Within the time I spent at Kitsiri’s workshop the audience doubled, and he even had people standing not far away listening and laughing at the wonderful stories he was presenting.
I highly recommend Kitsiri and this type of workshop for anyone who wants to bring the fun back into story telling. Childcare, School settings, as well students who are training to be Educators would also highly benefit from this; as Kitsiri is calm, fun, helpful and creates a safe environment to practice, and play with reading different stories. Kitsiri is extremely professional, and has a strong knowledge in all that he presents. I feel honoured to have had the opportunity to watch and be involved in Kitsiri’s story telling workshop. I took along two other Ladies from my Child Care Centre, who I observed instantly bringing all they learnt back into the Centre and having fun with each story they told. Thank you Kitsiri for bringing the fun back into story telling.
Danielle Temperley (ECT)
Testimonial - Primal Dance
There has long been the recognition that the mind and body are linked and that movement, and change in movement, can, therefore, affect the total functioning and well-being of a person. Indeed, DANCE Music Therapy uses dance to engage a person creatively, enabling them to connect with themselves emotionally, cognitively, physically, and socially. Kitsiri DeSilva runs workshops in creative, elemental and tribal movement, connecting the body and mind through free expression. The dance has no formal movements or patterns but is structured through allowing the individual to listen to their own body and feelings and express themselves through the music and our connection to the elements earth, fire, wind, water and spirit. Kitsiri creates a comfortable and welcoming environment to allow for non-judgmental participation and I believe that this sort of movement practice would be so beneficial to those suffering from mental and physical disabilities. Certainly, Kitsiri’s gentle approach would ensure participants felt safe and in control in their environment, and the lack of formal movements would make it easier for participants who are disabled either physically, developmentally, mentally or through the effects of heavy medication. I believe regular practice could be used as an outlet for expressing and managing feelings, thoughts and emotions, which can be so overwhelming for anybody, but especially for those with disabilities. This form of expression is especially useful when, in some cases, participants may not have access to many communication resources. In addition, free movement could be used as a socialization practice, enhancing social interaction skills and enabling participants to develop trusting relationships. Most beneficial however, would be the opportunity that this form of dance would provide for increased self-awareness, self-esteem and personal autonomy. As an anecdote, it should be noted that certainly self-expression in a completely free manner may be difficult or scary for people who have never had the opportunity to express themselves, but Kitsir’s gentle guidance, choice of appropriate music and encouragement creates a space that is comfortable and safe and open for completely free self-expression.
Gemma Stenner (workshop participant)
Gemma Stenner (workshop participant)
Testimonial - Primal Dance - mixed adults workshops
The music was great. The space is good and feels calm. Especially like the sand and the blindfolded textures part. The dancing helped me get out of my head. Now I am relaxed and calm and feel like I wish I always felt like. A larger 5 hour session would be very special.
Martin
Thank you for a great workshop – I feel loved, nurtured, peaceful and soft. Great choice of music and activities..the length of time for each was perfect – not too long not too short – just right! I loved the sensation of the room spray, the softness of the sand, the comfort, and fun of the green fabric, the softness of the cottonwool, the blindfold and sumptuous food..all sensory delights! Looved it! Last activity with the blindfold-just watch background noise as you prepare for next activity-I got a bit sidetracked. 5 hour workshop-choice would be for passionivity with art-my fav was the last one you ran.
Kate
Freedom within my heart and great strength in body, mind and soul. Thank you for the beautiful time you shared…full of movement, passion, love of life.
Many thanks. Namaste.
Claire
Most enjoyable morning beautiful setting relaxing and energetic and engaging.
Kate
Feeling ageless, sensuousness and playful, that was my joyous experience. Moving to amazing music.
Vera R
Thank you so much form the depths of my heart. You’ve helped me to find myself again. I feel in touch with my body ad spirit connection-I’ve learnt to love myself and who I am and to let go and express myself from the heart. This really has been a life changing experience for me. You are inspiring to watch and touching to be around. Thank you.
Emma
Thank you for this lovely experience. Never danced with the elements before. It gave me some friendly reminders, to which parts of myself I need to give some special attention.
Wilma.
Enjoyed being free and spontaneous.
Erlene.
Martin
Thank you for a great workshop – I feel loved, nurtured, peaceful and soft. Great choice of music and activities..the length of time for each was perfect – not too long not too short – just right! I loved the sensation of the room spray, the softness of the sand, the comfort, and fun of the green fabric, the softness of the cottonwool, the blindfold and sumptuous food..all sensory delights! Looved it! Last activity with the blindfold-just watch background noise as you prepare for next activity-I got a bit sidetracked. 5 hour workshop-choice would be for passionivity with art-my fav was the last one you ran.
Kate
Freedom within my heart and great strength in body, mind and soul. Thank you for the beautiful time you shared…full of movement, passion, love of life.
Many thanks. Namaste.
Claire
Most enjoyable morning beautiful setting relaxing and energetic and engaging.
Kate
Feeling ageless, sensuousness and playful, that was my joyous experience. Moving to amazing music.
Vera R
Thank you so much form the depths of my heart. You’ve helped me to find myself again. I feel in touch with my body ad spirit connection-I’ve learnt to love myself and who I am and to let go and express myself from the heart. This really has been a life changing experience for me. You are inspiring to watch and touching to be around. Thank you.
Emma
Thank you for this lovely experience. Never danced with the elements before. It gave me some friendly reminders, to which parts of myself I need to give some special attention.
Wilma.
Enjoyed being free and spontaneous.
Erlene.
Testimonial - mixed adults workshop
Hi Kitsiri, I had no idea what to expect today…I just knew after meeting you the other night that this is what I needed and that you were the man! Thanks my friend, you have helped me open up to the new journey in my life. Letting go, being at peace, expressing myself, feeling free, etc etc. Ways to improve? None really. Your music selection is astounding – your ideas to express, discover and open were spot on and perfect. I will be using a few myself with the kids. I am feeling amazing – many thanks.
Marco.
Today was fantastic – Its been a long time since I’ve found a pace to be able to play so freely without judgement or fear. This space for me is all about connecting with my true, free, innocent child and hence my power as a strong, creative free adult.
Danielle
Thank you Kitsiri! Today was a wonderful inspiration for me not only to see you doing what you do best but for the creativity and passion it has created in my soul. I feel fresh, clear and vibrant – ready to enjoy the next chapter of my wonderful. You are a beautiful man and today’s course was a brilliant extention of that. Thanks so much hope to see you more.
Cheryl.
Dancing and singing the soul. How joyous it is that we can weave in and out like breathe – nourishing the cells of my body. Live the stars in the sky…Twinkling simply because they can, they do, they will..words become mere reflections of what we, is and will be. That you facilitate this is a gift Kitsiri.
Paul Pule
“If I had to sum up this workshop in one word it would be freedom. Freedom to express, create, laugh and have fun. My passionate self is alive and AWAKE!”
Annie
“Finding me again felt GREAT! From being part of a harem and sliding like a snake in the deep, dark self; to dancing wildly and being totally free as my wild self. From the soft touch of my skin and feeling whole, ripe and womanly as the sensual self; to being as light as a kite, gliding and whirling in the sky, as the joyous, peaceful self.”
Kate
“I loved it all as I found myself supported by my heart and supporting it in a loving sensual aware way. The music and materials generously provided were greatly adequate and appropriate”.
Anna
“I felt as though I hadn’t the time nor the need to experience these sorts of exercises. Once engaged, I found myself washed along in an ocean of emotional and physical ecstasy. I circled galaxies and explored my inner realms. All the way encouraged by Kitsiri to go even deeper and even wider.”
Ken
“I enjoyed being able to move, paint… however I wanted, in a way that was an expression of myself. Good to jump around and get rid of pent‑up anger and energy in the ferocious dance”.
Juli
Marco.
Today was fantastic – Its been a long time since I’ve found a pace to be able to play so freely without judgement or fear. This space for me is all about connecting with my true, free, innocent child and hence my power as a strong, creative free adult.
Danielle
Thank you Kitsiri! Today was a wonderful inspiration for me not only to see you doing what you do best but for the creativity and passion it has created in my soul. I feel fresh, clear and vibrant – ready to enjoy the next chapter of my wonderful. You are a beautiful man and today’s course was a brilliant extention of that. Thanks so much hope to see you more.
Cheryl.
Dancing and singing the soul. How joyous it is that we can weave in and out like breathe – nourishing the cells of my body. Live the stars in the sky…Twinkling simply because they can, they do, they will..words become mere reflections of what we, is and will be. That you facilitate this is a gift Kitsiri.
Paul Pule
“If I had to sum up this workshop in one word it would be freedom. Freedom to express, create, laugh and have fun. My passionate self is alive and AWAKE!”
Annie
“Finding me again felt GREAT! From being part of a harem and sliding like a snake in the deep, dark self; to dancing wildly and being totally free as my wild self. From the soft touch of my skin and feeling whole, ripe and womanly as the sensual self; to being as light as a kite, gliding and whirling in the sky, as the joyous, peaceful self.”
Kate
“I loved it all as I found myself supported by my heart and supporting it in a loving sensual aware way. The music and materials generously provided were greatly adequate and appropriate”.
Anna
“I felt as though I hadn’t the time nor the need to experience these sorts of exercises. Once engaged, I found myself washed along in an ocean of emotional and physical ecstasy. I circled galaxies and explored my inner realms. All the way encouraged by Kitsiri to go even deeper and even wider.”
Ken
“I enjoyed being able to move, paint… however I wanted, in a way that was an expression of myself. Good to jump around and get rid of pent‑up anger and energy in the ferocious dance”.
Juli
Testimonials Mens Only Workshop
Excellent keep it up! Creative change is vital. Be yourself. Enjoyed immensely. Weekly would be too much due to so many other events weekly. Magic follows for you are the magic. Trust –You will know.
Steve.
Love the dance energy and the way others become “open”. Don’t like to be violent, I think play punching is saying its ok but its not. Like to do this weekly. I think $20 is not enough but will be good.
Barry
Great workshop, I liked the expression of the fire energy through dance, visualization and releaseing. The transition from physical to painting to meditation was good. Weekly cost $10-15 depending on numbers. I feel personally that a bit more of a talk about What anger is - What dysfunctional anger is - How it affects lives/relationships etc - How we can use anger in real life situations in an appropriate way.
Anonymous
Fantastic energy, loved all the different aspects, the freedom of movement, the dancing, the physical contact, the artistic expression and the ability to have some quiet time to reflect on it in a quiet meditation. It was good to hear everyone’s feedback. I would love to come every week but Bullsbrook is a bit too far so I would love to some once a fortnight or every three weeks. I feel in between $20-25 would be fair.
Robert.
I have no neg comments What you have /I have experienced is excellent. I live in Mndurah: monthly is/would be my attendance (at this point). $5 min/$10 max I feel would be appropriate (depending on hall costs, materials) therefore $20 plus $40 max - My first experience in a mens group ever, a good one. I liked the physical side, letting loose, doing things you would normally not do (or as a teenager the last time) Like to be able to just be yourself and move/do what you feel like. Good mix of activity-slow down-relaxation.
Chris
Hi Kitsiri –thank you so much for your time, and your energy and your gifts and the space for everyone to get what they needed (and for exchange). One criticism-maybe at the beginning you might want to ask everyone to respect each others boundaries, whilst also balancing their own freedom-I dunno-maybe people don’t want anymore rules. Otherwise all great. Unfortunately for me, it was confronting, as I am same sex attracted-I felt like I was intruding into the male space. So very confusing again even though I thought I’d dealt with all that but anyway that’s my own stuff. Anyway! Just wanted to support you and try to gain something and hopefully give something, energy wise. Good luck with it. Unfortunately I don’t think I’ll come again but will hopefully be able to support some of your other workshops.
Benji
I like all the sessions. It was a very becalming experience I live in Kinross north of the river so a good hour drive. This is a story my story. Yes I would like to return. Cost? Thank you for the insight to my calm side.
Dennis Hines.
The whole experience was perfect. If I was to attend a class I think a reasonable price is between $10-30. Try to pint out physical fitness. Bring water bottle. Bring towel. Bring comfortable clothes. Relaxation session ending: Suggest guiding people into session to help put them in a place of self love and breathe easing any pain or residual emotions. Circle up at the end to join together to release and bless everyone for tonight and their journey. Small one: Just guide on the issue of no judgements around the painting session, as I saw that people were vulnerable about what they expressed (me included). Thank you for tonight.
Peter Blunt.
The evening eased the energy level of the group higher and higher allowing them to more fully express themselves without judgement-there was no focus on anger just getting to the raw feelings-taking from the highs to the bliss after reaching the crest of the hill. Truly satisfying and rewarding-worth regular attendance. Cost $10-20 per week. Many thanks
Adrian Berry
Steve.
Love the dance energy and the way others become “open”. Don’t like to be violent, I think play punching is saying its ok but its not. Like to do this weekly. I think $20 is not enough but will be good.
Barry
Great workshop, I liked the expression of the fire energy through dance, visualization and releaseing. The transition from physical to painting to meditation was good. Weekly cost $10-15 depending on numbers. I feel personally that a bit more of a talk about What anger is - What dysfunctional anger is - How it affects lives/relationships etc - How we can use anger in real life situations in an appropriate way.
Anonymous
Fantastic energy, loved all the different aspects, the freedom of movement, the dancing, the physical contact, the artistic expression and the ability to have some quiet time to reflect on it in a quiet meditation. It was good to hear everyone’s feedback. I would love to come every week but Bullsbrook is a bit too far so I would love to some once a fortnight or every three weeks. I feel in between $20-25 would be fair.
Robert.
I have no neg comments What you have /I have experienced is excellent. I live in Mndurah: monthly is/would be my attendance (at this point). $5 min/$10 max I feel would be appropriate (depending on hall costs, materials) therefore $20 plus $40 max - My first experience in a mens group ever, a good one. I liked the physical side, letting loose, doing things you would normally not do (or as a teenager the last time) Like to be able to just be yourself and move/do what you feel like. Good mix of activity-slow down-relaxation.
Chris
Hi Kitsiri –thank you so much for your time, and your energy and your gifts and the space for everyone to get what they needed (and for exchange). One criticism-maybe at the beginning you might want to ask everyone to respect each others boundaries, whilst also balancing their own freedom-I dunno-maybe people don’t want anymore rules. Otherwise all great. Unfortunately for me, it was confronting, as I am same sex attracted-I felt like I was intruding into the male space. So very confusing again even though I thought I’d dealt with all that but anyway that’s my own stuff. Anyway! Just wanted to support you and try to gain something and hopefully give something, energy wise. Good luck with it. Unfortunately I don’t think I’ll come again but will hopefully be able to support some of your other workshops.
Benji
I like all the sessions. It was a very becalming experience I live in Kinross north of the river so a good hour drive. This is a story my story. Yes I would like to return. Cost? Thank you for the insight to my calm side.
Dennis Hines.
The whole experience was perfect. If I was to attend a class I think a reasonable price is between $10-30. Try to pint out physical fitness. Bring water bottle. Bring towel. Bring comfortable clothes. Relaxation session ending: Suggest guiding people into session to help put them in a place of self love and breathe easing any pain or residual emotions. Circle up at the end to join together to release and bless everyone for tonight and their journey. Small one: Just guide on the issue of no judgements around the painting session, as I saw that people were vulnerable about what they expressed (me included). Thank you for tonight.
Peter Blunt.
The evening eased the energy level of the group higher and higher allowing them to more fully express themselves without judgement-there was no focus on anger just getting to the raw feelings-taking from the highs to the bliss after reaching the crest of the hill. Truly satisfying and rewarding-worth regular attendance. Cost $10-20 per week. Many thanks
Adrian Berry