Stephen Teams Up With Trace Adkins and The Smithsonian Institute for "TALES FROM THE RAILS" - February 8, 2012
The adventures of Owney, a scruffy mutt who became the unofficial Railway Post Office mascot in the 1890s, are narrated through contemporary eyes and based on primary sources with a dash of imagination. Never before has Owney’s story come to life in such an entertaining way, combining narration and a musical soundtrack featuring Adkins. Owney: Tales from the Rails was produced by Amusme, written and directed by accomplished Disney veteran Jerry Rees, complemented by world-class illustrations by Fred Cline and features music written and scored by award-winning children’s entertainment architect Stephen Michael Schwartz, with underscore composed and mixed by Chris Rhyne.
“As a father of five, history buff and animal lover, I am very proud to work with the Smithsonian’s National Postal Museum to bring Owney’s fascinating story to life. The song and this story provide a fun way for families to learn together.”
Trace Adkins
Twenty-Five years ago Parachute Express and Gymboree formed a unique bond bringing children and parents together with the power of music and play. Stephen and Parachute Express were honored this week In Boston by the Gymboree Corporation for their outstanding musical contribution to the international play movement program. The group treated five hundred franchise owners from across the globe to a private concert. After the show Stephen, Donny and Janice were each given a crystal statuette commemorating this quarter-of-a- century musical milestone. Even the Boston Red sox joined in the celebration and announced the anniversary at their home game against the NY Yanks.