In 2006, Philly Senior Stage Artistic Director, Robb Hutter, learned that a local retirement community, Shannondell at Valley Forge, had recently completed construction of a 500 seat state-of-the-art theatre. The space was being used primarily for hosting symphonies, musicals, and community theatre productions for the enjoyment of Shannondell’s residents. Realizing that this beautiful theatre could be utilized by the residents for more than simply “audience participation,” Robb approached the activities department and proposed teaching acting and creative drama classes to the Shannondell residents.
These hugely successful classes led to the creation of an ongoing drama group – “The Shannondell Actors Studio” – which each season presents one or two main stage variety show productions – to houses brimming to capacity with fellow residents, family members and the community-at-large. Realizing the value of this life-enriching activity for senior adults, Robb approached other retirement communities and within six months established a dozen similar programs throughout the Delaware Valley. Philly Senior Stage was born!
Over the past year Philly Senior Stage has expanded to provide quality professional touring shows – musicals, comedies and dramas – for the enjoyment of senior adults in the greater Philadelphia area.
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