If there is one thing you can count on at the Jewish Home Family, it’s that we like to say yes to anything that will bring joy to the elders that we serve. Whether it is a special outing or a unique program, we pride ourselves on making things possible and making things happen.
One of our most recent big projects is a perfect example of this philosophy and commitment. We learned about Broadway Sr., a division of Music Theatre International. Through Broadway Sr., well known musicals are modified to make them easier for senior groups to perform. The shows are somewhat reduced in length and can be performed without staging or movement, but the familiar dialogue and music are still fully there. As soon as we heard about this opportunity, we decided we had to do it! And do it we did.
Ari Markowitz, administrator of the Jewish Home at Rockleigh, has a background in musical theatre and was delighted to take the lead as director. Together with other members of the team, auditions took place, both at Jewish Home Assisted Living and at the Jewish Home at Rockleigh, beginning in January.
With the cast in place, including a chorus of any elders who wanted to join in, rehearsals began. First, we rehearsed on each campus separately, focusing primarily on the songs. Dialogue, we learned, was the easier part, getting the music down was more complicated. As time went on, we began to combine the cast from both campuses and our ensemble of 20 came together with enthusiasm and energy.
One of our talented staff designed and created sets, we hired a professional sound crew, and we even set up refreshments and “merch” (show T-shirts for sale) so that it felt like a real Broadway theatre experience.
Our four performances took place over a two-week period at the end of May and beginning of June. Each show played to a full house of family and community members, friends and staff and each performance ended with a standing ovation.
Elders cannot say enough about the experience, not just about the fun they had but also “Being in the show really gave me a sense of purpose,” and “I loved every minute of it.” In fact, the most frequently asked question is now “What show are we going to do next?” Watch for details of our 2027 show—you won’t want to miss it!
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