File puptcrit/puptcrit.0805, message 390


From: Rolande Duprey <Puppetpro-AT-aol.com>
To: puptcrit-AT-puptcrit.org
Date: Sun, 18 May 2008 16:15:18 -0400
Subject: Re: [Puptcrit] Puppetry for Seniors


Agreed!

One of the most difficult issues is stage space, especially if I bring  
any marionettes. AND especially if people are sitting in the extra- 
small recreation area in wheel chairs, and I'm stuck in front of the  
tv set -- when most of them really want to watch their shows...

The best has been the "intergenerational shows" -- sometimes called  
"grandparents' day" that has space enough for children AND the elderly  
in wheel chairs.

The one time I actually mailed specifically to the homes in my area, I  
received very few calls, but the ones I got were ones that had really  
sparked the recreation director into thinking about puppetry as  
another type of entertainment for their clients...

opening minds is important....

Rolande






On May 18, 2008, at 2:43 PM, Liz Evans wrote:

> Rolande,
>
> We have the same issues as most who have responded.  Most
> Seniors centers can not afford performance or workshop work.
> But on occasionally we do work for them as a donation situation.
>
> Think Wholesome family theatre entertainment unless otherwise  
> requested.
> Stories with humor and drama that move as opposed to gags and chase
> scenes, unless that is what is requested.
>
> Unless you are working in a center that is specifically for Seniors  
> with
> mental issues, you should not assume that they can not understand a
> story and plot or that they would not have expectation about being
> entertained with puppetry.
>
> Remember these folks are the ones who grew up with puppetry as
> entertainment that wasn't just for kids.  One of the things we have
> found pretty much every time we have done performances for an all
> Senior group is that they appreciate Puppetry as an Art form.
>
> The biggest thing to remember is that you aren't going to get rich
> financially from doing Seniors homes, unless you are able to get
> a grant to do so.  As has been mentioned many times most homes do not
> have money.  There are a few that do, but they are few and far  
> between.
>
> Best of luck,
>
> Liz
>
> K. Elizabeth Evans, President & Artistic Director
> Renaissance Artist Puppet Company
> http://www.RenArtPuppetCo.com
> 610-630-4259
>
> Renaissance Artist Puppet Company's
> mission is to promote excellence in puppetry as a
> Theatrical art form and as an Educational tool by incorporating
> historical and cultural diversity along with quality performance
> techniques to tell our stories.
> _______________________________________________
> List address: puptcrit-AT-puptcrit.org
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