The Church of 80% Sincerity

David Roche, inspirational humorist

Thursday, March 29th. 7:00 pm.
First Nations Longhouse, Sty-Wet-Tan Great Hall, 1985 West Mall

David Roche, inspirational humorist

Thursday, March 29th. 7:00 pm.
First Nations Longhouse, Sty-Wet-Tan Great Hall, 1985 West Mall

The Church of 80% Sincerity tracks the inspiring, poignant, wickedly funny and sometimes heart-breaking story of David's journey from shame to self-acceptance. David's powerful vignettes and keen observations invite the sweet (and sometimes raucous) laughter that flows from the recognition that we are all flawed and struggling beings. He provides an irresistible and unforgettable glimpse of his (and your) inner beauty and worth, offering profound encouragement in dealing with whatever life brings you.

The Church of 80% Sincerity is an award-winning, one-man show that has played to enthusiastic audiences across the United States and Canada, in Australia, England, Ireland, Russia - and at the White House. The performance is co-sponsored by the [Vice President of Equity], Equity Office, The Department of Educational Studies and in Affiliation with the Faculty of Education's Celebration of the 50th Anniversary of the Faculty of Education.

From Roberts Creek Elementary School in Vancouver, British Columbia to Stanford University and New York University, from receiving the 2005 Martin Luther King 2005 Award in Marin County to Opening the Arts Festival of the Sydney Olympics, from speaking on CNN and other major networks, with warmth and connection, he conveys powerful lessons about disability, diversity and acceptance. David encourages everyone in his audiences to ask in unison, "What happened to your face?" After satisfying their curiosity, he tells stories about his own school days that help students and educators relate to the experience of feeling different. 

"What is most striking, and finally, moving, is the way he draws attention to his disfigurement and makes his audience see beyond it as well", writes Steven Winn of the San Franscisco Chronicle.

We've had dozens of speakers here over the years, but none have sparked such overwhelmingly powerful responses from our students as did David....His message is joyous and uplifting--our kids and faculty loved him. Blair Fisher, Dean of Students, Middle School, Marietta Georgia.

As David puts it: "Working with students is the most exciting work I do."
http://www.davidroche.com/david-roche-schools/

Co-sponsored by the Equity Office at UBC, Faculty of Education, in affiliation with the 50th Anniversary and The Department of Educational Studies, UBC. Special Thanks to Dean Robert Tierney, Associate Dean Deborah Butler, Prof. and Acting Head, Graham Smith, Leslie G. Roman, organizer, Christine Wallsworth, Clare Ford and Sharon Hu for hard work and encouragement