Professor Boonie's Home Page

Chicago's Very Own: Professor Boonie

Jane Boal
Reporter/Producer

September 11, 2004

Do you need a entertaining way to help teach your children important songs such as, Old McDonald Had A Farm? One of Chicago's Very Own is becoming very popular with the kids.

"You gonna come in and learn the ABC's?" says Professor Boonie.

Every Monday and Wednesday, kids of all ages, gather in Lincoln Park Zoo's, farmhouse, to have fun, socialize, and learn from Professor Boonie.

"And it's chaotic and it's fun," Professor Boonie says.

"Cocka doodle doo," Professor Boonie says.

While Boonie reads, sings and entertains, three and half year old Michael, shares one song all of the kids learn.

"a-b-c-d-e-f-g-h-i-j-k-l-m-n-o-p," Michael sings.

Stay at home dad, Bob Frazier, says all three of his kids are Boonie fans.

"So all of our kids, when they were very young, would always sing La Bamba," Frazier says.

"la la la la la bamba," Boonie says.

Professor Boonie has been dazzling audiences at Lincoln Park Zoo for eight years. His real name is Michael O'Toole, he's 47 years old, and grew up in Chicago. When he's not at the zoo, he's performing at birthday parties, and special events.

"I have to try to appeal to kids, but also keep the grownups interested enough that they be quiet during my show!" Boonie says.

Caroline is four and a half years old - her favorite song was written by the professor.

"Brush your teeth every day, brush your teeth every day," Caroline sings. "Brush your teeth everyday. Or they'll - all - fall - out," Boonie sings.

Originals, or old standby's.... Kids and adults can sing, dance, play, or just relax while listening.

"I'd hammer out danger, I'd hammer out warning, I'd hammer out love between my brothers and my sisters all over this land," Boonie sings.

"He's really good," says Dorita, a babysitter.

"I'll see you guys later!" Boonie says.

Professor Boonie is not only one of Lincoln Park's very own, but one of Chicago's Very Own, for helping kids to learn the fun way.

There's more than just animals at the Lincoln Park Zoo. His name is Professor Boonie, and we'll introduce you to one of Chicago's very own, coming up."

You can find Professor Boonie in the farmhouse at Lincoln Park Zoo. There's no charge for his performances, which take place every Monday and Wednesday at 9:15am and 10am.

For more information go to www.professorboonie.com