Round the Bend Players
gives seniors chance to perform
Beginnings: Founded in November by Rita Boyle and Sherry Zyskowski, who wanted to find an outlet where those older than 50 could participate in theatrical performances
Eligibility: Members must be 50 or older
Current mailing list: 45
Future plans: Community service project in which members would go to retirement, assisted living and nursing homes and perform skits, plays, songs and other forms of entertainment for residents. The next on-stage performance is scheduled for August.
For More info: Email Sherry at Sherrylhz@cs.com or call Rita at 587-0685
Heller Theatre and cofounders Rita Boyle and Sherry Zyskowski have formed an Acting Troupe with seniors in mind.
The troupe held its initial meeting in November. The first performance, "After Play," ran Feb. 23 through 27 at Heller Theater.
The last night was a hit, said Julie Tattershall, artistic director at Heller Theater.
"I think the community was impressed with the productions," said Tattershall, who helped organize the group. "On Saturday, they got a standing ovation, a sell-out."
"This is just a great opportunity where (seniors) have several months to learn their lines, or hold their scripts in-hand," she said. "Just because they are older doesn't mean they should not be able to participate."
Performers in the group range in age from 50 to 80, and their talents include reading, dancing, singing, comedy and drama..
The troupe is planning a community outreach project in which members would present variety shows to seniors at assisted living, retirement and nursing home facilities.
People are not asked to give their age when they try out for the troupe, Boyle said.
"We do have an age-qualifier. We're kind of tired of being referred to as senior or oldster. We just ask if they are AARP-eligible -- 50 or older," Boyle said. "We still like to do what we do and be a service to the community."
This site sponsored by Round the Bend Players. To contact the webmaster email alb74066@aol.com