Young at Heartland Summer Showcases Today and June 22

Heartland Theatre's senior acting troupe, Young at Heartland, is back for two fresh Summer Showcases, with performances today at 1 pm and on June 22 at 7:30 pm. Both performances take place on stage at Heartland Theatre.

Young at Heartland provides a two-month workshop for actors over 55. Sandra Zielinski, retired Illinois State University professor, has brought her extensive directing experience to YAH this semester, and she has been assisted by Terri Whisenhunt. At the end of each semester, the troupe takes its act on the road to a dozen area nursing homes, retirement centers, churches and civic groups, with the Summer Showcase at Heartland Theatre the only time they offer performances to a general audience.

From left, Lynda Straw, Mary Scott, Kathleen Clesson and Norma Oberholtzer.

All of this year's pieces were written by current or former members of Young at Heartland. That means you have the chance to experience your friends' and neighbors' writing as well as their acting if you attend the Showcase. Playwrights include Bruce Boeck, Elsie Cadieux, Kathleen Clesson, Holly Klass and Lynda Straw.

There is no charge for admission to the Summer Showcase, although they do ask for donations at the door. You are advised to get there early, because these are VERY popular events. Doors will open 20 minutes before the show.

Ann White (L), Lola Devore and Elsie Cadieux in the YAH Summer Showcase

About Young at Heartland: "Young at Heartland strives to build an ensemble of seniors who share the values of continuing education, creative self-expression, and community outreach. It is designed to accommodate and support performers’ comfort levels with memorization. We aim to find appropriate pathways to showcase performers’ gifts in a fun, stress-free atmosphere."

Young at Heartland is supported by grants from the McLean County Arts Regranting Program (Illinois Arts Council) and the Mirza Arts and Culture Fund of the Illinois Prairie Community Foundation.