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Bonnie's Column
The pandemic has forced all of us to grapple with increased stresses and worries about health, money, and safety as we struggle with the many challenges that face us. It's interesting how people react; some respond by being less nice, less generous, less polite. This is difficult for me.
Others, however, find it in their hearts to be more giving, more accepting, and more socially conscious. This week, I’ve experienced both kinds of behaviors. Either way, I have made it my mission to give kind and caring responses.
There’s no denying that Senior Theatre is and will be challenged. How do we produce theatre when we're worried about basic needs? However, the truth is that once the virus fades, our work will be even more important. Actors and directors will seek challenges and artistic outlets. Audiences will hanker for a laugh.
So, my advice is to move ahead. Do it carefully, with a solid plan. Select your plays now. I suggest that you choose a production that is less difficult so you can begin rehearsals using technology like conference calls and video meetings such as zoom. Look for radio plays or short shows with small casts that can be rehearsed individually. And for themes, stay away from heavy topics as we’ve all had far too much of heavy lately! Set performance dates. They can always be re-scheduled.
Remember that there is a higher purpose to the arts. We rise above reality and help people find happiness and peace, while we all have a bit of fun. Most of all, keep going—and do so with kindness!
Best in theatre,
Bonnie L. Vorenberg
President, ArtAge Publications
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Learn how to take Senior Theatre Online
Now is the time to learn how to adapt Senior Theatre to online formats. Learn with us at the upcoming "Take Senior Theatre Online" conference call. Join us on:
Tuesday May 12 at 1PM Pacific Time (2PM Mountain, 3PM Central, 4PM Eastern)
Simply dial (712) 451-0200 then enter the Access code:719637
We will discuss:
- Plays that work for streaming
- How to get the best use out of your camera
- How to find the setting that works for you
- Rehearse, schedule, and stage performances
- Copyright, royalty, and other requirements
- Your questions and concerns
Join us! No reservation is necessary but please contact us so we know you will attend.
Click here to Read the ArtAge COVID notice
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Watch our first Senior Theatre
Streaming Show
We were in the height of quarantine when Colin Mah contacted us about creating a streamed production of Tech Support. We have worked through the details and will present the finished version of the show later this month. Stay tuned for dates and times.
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Plays for Streaming
Here are some plays that will work well as streaming shows.
Save $5 on e-scripts until May 23, 2020
Just a Song at Twilight
1 man, 1 woman
25 minute comedy
After unpacking from her move to a senior apartment, an older woman goes to the park and meets another tenant. Do they share a past? Can lost love be recovered? Also look at other park bench plays.
Gin and Tonic
1 man, 1 woman
10 minute comedy
This laugh-out-loud comedy offers a fresh look at the problems of senior dating.
French and Spanish versions also available and on sale
Radio KRZY
1 man, 2 women, 3 either
30 minute comedy
This is a farcical, wacky comedy about the shenanigans, backstage drama, and on-air screw-ups, of the cast and crew of a small-town radio station, where everything goes a little KRAZY.
Canine Contact
1 man, 1 woman
5 minute comedy
George and Gracie briefly share the challenges of getting older. Through a happy exchange of ideas, they emerge hopeful about the future.
The Radio Show
1 man, 2 women, 1 either
10 minute comedy
During a radio broadcast, the audience is led to believe that the guest actor and actress hate each other. The two go off script and destroy the entire show!
Finding Zeus
1 man, 1 woman
10 minute comedy
Charles and Martha have been together for a long time. They love each other. Like any long-term relationship, they also take each other for granted. Today, Martha has decided to shake things up.
Undo
1 man, 2 woman
10 minute comedy
A provocative email, meant for one special person, accidentally gets sent to the entire Wine Wednesday email group. Things go from bad to worse faster than you can say world wide web.
All I Want is the Recipe
2 woman
10 minute comedy
An unsuspecting caller only wants to find out how to make a casserole but finds herself in a conversation that takes off everywhere but a recipe!
French and Spanish versions also available and on sale
Save $5 on e-scripts until May 23, 2020
Also consider What's on TV? and other shows in Age on Stage ®: Comedies for Readers Theatre Volume 1
We continue to add new plays to our collection. Click here to see all of the NEW plays!
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How to help ArtAge
In these difficult time, we are so grateful for your continued support of our work. You can help us when you:
- Buy and perform plays
- Sign up for "Who's Who in Senior Theatre"
- Order the book and plays below because the playwrights are donating their sales to ArtAge:
We so appreciate you!
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Visit our ever-changing website!
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