Stars on Stage Club delights seniors in holiday outreach performances

Members of the Latham Stars on Stage Performing Arts Club visited two assisted living homes for a volunteer outreach opportunity and performance last month. The students prepared a 30-minute program of music including holiday songs and other tunes from the elderly residents’ time such as “Rockin’Robin” and “The Lion Sleeps Tonight”. Latham students sang, danced, played percussion instruments and rhythm sticks as they performed songs they’ve been practicing since October with ease and grace. Other songs included “Deck the Halls”, “All I Want For Christmas is You”, and “Hanukkah, Oh Hanukkah”.

In their planned visits at both Wingate Harwich and Maplewood in Brewster on December 4th, the students performed for over 50 people and were invited back for more performances in the future. Holly Michaud, Lifestyle Director from Maplewood, shared “You and your students will be a cherished highlight of our 2018 Holiday Season at Maplewood! Loved the positive energy from performers to audience… and in return, we welcome you back to our “stage” anytime!”

Most importantly, the Latham students were reminded by their director, Sarah jane Mason, that this was more than just a performance. “The most important part of this experience is volunteering your time and talents to share with the elderly and bringing some holiday joy to their world.”

The Latham Stars on Stage Club will be preparing and practicing for more outreach opportunities this winter and spring, and they look forward to giving back to the local community through music and the arts. Community members interested in a music performance from the Latham Stars on Stage Club are invited to contact Sarah jane Mason at smason@lathamcenters.org for more information.