What is Senior Theatre? Who does senior theatre? Where does Senior Theatre happen? What are the forms of Senior Theatre? How can I get started?
Senior Theatre is drama designed specifically for older adults, using techniques that accommodate the abilities of seniors, in active participation. Scripts feature a majority of older characters in current situations in older persons’ lives, in age appropriate roles.
The world of Senior Theatre is rich with many companies performing around the world. Performances range from short plays to three-act musicals, and everything in between.
Performers range from professional to amateur to frail elders in both rural and urban settings. Participants are usually between 50 to 90 years, with most being in their late 60’s to mid- 80’s.
Bonnie Vorenberg, an expert in the field and president of ArtAge Publications says, “I am often asked, ‘Who qualifies to be in Senior Theatre?’” and my answer is “Anyone who wishes to be in Senior Theatre!” Age doesn’t limit participation.
Gain inspiration from some of these older actors and performing companies! They would love to hear from you and help you on your journey.
Senior Theatre companies are sponsored by all levels of theatres, senior centers, retirement communities, colleges, universities, parks, social service and arts organizations.
Senior Theatres perform many genres but short plays are the most popular. Groups also stage fully mounted plays, follies, variety shows, autobiographical scripts, puppetry, and more. Some groups use theatre to highlight aging, intergenerational problems, health concerns, or other issues. Seniors also appear as solo performers, in films and commercials. Many help backstage, as ushers, or in the box office. They also study theatre in colleges and universities or try their hand as playwrights.
- Who’s Who in Senior TheatreA directory of some of our favorite performing groups!
- BibliographyWe’ve done the research for you! Purchase a PDF that is a complete bibliography of books, dissertations and articles.
- In the NewsA list of press releases and published articles about Senior Theatre around the world.
- ArtAge Publications NewsletterRead past issues and sign up for for our newsletter for the latest information, sales on scripts, classes and more!
- Start your own Senior Theatre!Everything you need to get up and running with your own Senior Theatre company! Practical resources and enough theory so that you’re confident you’re on the right path. Best of all, it includes 3 hours of personal consultation with ArtAge’s Bonnie L. Vorenberg!
We are here to help with all of your Senior Theatre needs.
ArtAge Publications
PO Box 19955
Portland OR 97280
503-246-3000 or 800-858-4998
bonniev@seniortheatre.com