Multi-talented performer inspires Convent Glen students

“It was a great show,” said Koper, who was on a one-week tour of Ottawa schools. “They were a really well-behaved audience, and I appreciate that because sometimes it’s hard to talk over them.”

It wasn’t all just tricks and gimmicks during Koper’s show. He also had a message of the motivational variety for the young students – a theme he wove throughout his performance by telling his own story.

For the University of Toronto grad who has appeared on the David Letterman and Ellen DeGeneres shows, reaching for his dreams was what allowed him to do what he wanted in his life – make a living from performing. “The main thing is I just want them to be inspired,” Koper noted. “I want them to not sell themselves short, and to believe in themselves so that they’re willing to give it a chance and try to do what they want to do.”

Koper encouraged the youngsters to strive towards whatever they’re passionate about, in areas such as science, math, sports or performing. “You can’t be successful unless you first have a goal – something that you can work towards,” Koper told his audience, challenging them to pick out one thing to learn or accomplish in their lives and thinking about the first steps needed to make it happen. “If everyone can go home and set one goal for themselves, then I’ve done my job here today.”