Reader's Theater
The arts are healing. Our Readers Theater program utilizes the Veder Method, which combines the positive effects of reminiscence with theatrical elements. This has been shown to ease symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia. Readers Theater is an interactive group activity where the gathered party will read scripts and theatrical excerpts aloud in a performance setting. This program is designed to enrich our seniors who would otherwise be excluded from performance opportunities.
Participants in our program have remarked how the activity has helped with their mental acuity over the course of the program. Participants who have started out quiet and hesitant, find their voices and even their laughter again. Relationships develop between the participants leading to increased socialization outside of the program.
Because Reader’s Theater does not require moving around a stage, it is also accessible to people with mobility issues, people who, otherwise would not have an activity to engage them with performing. For some, our program is their one chance to get out of their homes and interact with others.
At the end of each of our sessions, in May and in November, we enjoy performing for the community. If your organization would like us to come and perform for you contact us and we can make arrangements.
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The Challenge of Bureaucracy by Carole Glickfeld: Finney is an older lady with a terrible problem. She hasn’t received her last Social Security check! Desperate, she seeks the help of people whom she knows get things done, starting with the Activity Director. As others come to her aid, all she gets is the run around and the red tape still isn’t cut — until she finds the ultimate supervisor, that is.
My Man by David L. Greenwood: Two friends at a retirement community discover they’re both interested in the same charming newcomer, and the conversation quickly turns into a showdown. Maud insists her bond with Manfred is special, while Jocelyn argues that romance has no rules. Their back-and-forth is full of clever remarks, bold wagers, and plenty of surprises. Just when they think they’ll settle the matter, a phone call flips the entire situation upside down.
Second Career by Ellen Margolis: Diane is now retired and ready to take on the world. Her mission: to be an advocate for disgruntled customers. Bring on your defective merchandise, your shoddy purchases, and your complaints about bad service. Diane has a purpose!
Zorina the Mystic by Jean Vetter: Three troubled souls have come to commune with Zorina, knower of all things, seer of all sights, solver of all problems.
Have I Got a Deal for You by Jean Vetter: Muriel the savvy housewife engages in a battle of wits with a devious salesperson.
Delicious Dilemmas by Jean Vetter: A group of seniors sit in the social room at their retirement home discussing the ups and downs of retirement home cuisine.
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Lucy by Mike Hassett: Frank and Herman, two old friends, reconnect on a park bench and catch up on life after a long absence. Herman is stunned when Frank reveals he’s found a new companion named Lucy, and the conversation turns into a lively celebration of second chances. Frank gushes about Lucy’s beauty, energy, and love for long walks, swimming, and cozy nights watching TV. Herman is impressed—and a little curious—until a twist ending delivers a laugh that no one sees coming.
That’s Good/That’s Bad by Jean Vetter: Remember the comedy wall on Laugh In? Quick little zingers are given in this humorous lightning round of laughs.
Game Show by Jean Vetter: Trivia for dollars, yet one player isn’t as up to snuff on facts as she is on luck and turns things around in the end.
Oh, Doctor by Jean Vetter: Patients in and patients out yet the Doctor never does seem to do much doctoring.
Just the Facts by Jean Vetter: Sgt. Monday and his partner Thomas Tuesday attempt to unravel a mystery at the senior citizen community center.
Performances with special permission from ArtAge Publications’ Senior TheatreResource Center at
800-858-4998, www.seniortheatre.com.