(Photo courtesy of Paula Oliverio) Mark Comley, of Lexington, Ky., is the first Artsbridge Artist on Tour program in local schools for the 2025-36 school year.

PARKERSBURG — Artsbridge of the Mid Ohio Valley announced the kickoff to a new school year with the first of five Artist on Tour Series for 2025-26.

Mark Comley, of Lexington, Ky., performed Uncle Sam’s History Jam for thousands of students recently in West Virginia and Ohio elementary schools during Constitution Week.

His program wove historical facts, magic, science, and comedy while captivating his young audiences to make learning fun and engaging for the students through his interactive approach.

By incorporating performing arts into education, particularly for elementary students, he helped to promote retention of historical knowledge.

One third grade teacher commented “The performance had a good mix of comedy and student participation to keep everyone engaged while still being educational. It helps show kids that learning can be fun!”

This was Comley’s first appearance in the Mid Ohio Valley. He has been performing for over 50 years. His message to students about the importance of education and history was well received by both students and staff, officials said.

“We are so grateful to provide such quality performances for our school students,” said Paula Oliverio, Arts Education Coordinator for Artsbridge. She continued “it is made possible through funding provided by the West Virginia Department of Arts, Culture and History, Ohio Arts Council, National Endowment for the Arts, the McDonough Foundation, Fenton Foundation, WVCFCU, City of Vienna, City of Parkersburg and by contributors to the Artsbridge Fall Fund Drive, GiveLocalMOV and donations made throughout the year. We are so appreciative of all the help and assistance provided to Artsbridge.”

Artsbridge is currently in the process of its annual Fall Fund Drive to help support the 14 programs offered to the Mid Ohio Valley.