A partnership forged from a genuine love of the arts has paired JKV with the Venetian Arts Society and is hitting pitch-perfect notes.
Two wildly successful evenings have introduced residents and outside guests to a Broadway-caliber songbird along with her on-cue tight band on one night.
Then a month later the Auditorium was turned into a Spanish “teatro” musical theater replete with reds and yellows, flamenco dancers a soprano and tenor who personified the aforementioned pitch-perfect notes.
Sparked by Senior Management’s commitment to enhancing the 7 Dimensions of Wellness for all residents, Verna Chisman and Monica McAfee befriended VAS’s Executive Director William “Willie” Riddle.
“Collaborations with VAS that provide our residents with these wonderful programs exposes them to many of the 7 Dimensions,” said Verna, JKV’s Director of Wellness. “Coming out and enjoying a show utilizes emotional, social, physical and intellectual dimensions, just to name a few.”
The first show began with a wine and appetizer mix and mingle in the Woodlands’ main lobby, including the elegant sounds of a harpist. Guests were then taken to the Auditorium for a performance from rich alto Avery Sommers, a Carbonell winner whose credits include performing in the Big Apple for shows such as “Showboat,” “Ain’t Misbehavin'” and “Chicago.”
“Our first program, featuring Avery Sommers and her jazz ensemble, exceeded our most optimistic expectations,” said Gerry Stryker, President & CEO. “The standing ovation was just one indication of how much our guests enjoyed the evening. For days afterwards, our office received countless e-mails with exuberant accolades.”
The second program, “Rhapsody Espana,” was a multi-media evening celebrating authentic zarzuela and classical Spanish music and dance; played once again to a standing-room only audience who were captivated and enthralled by the program, proving that residents welcome and appreciate quality cultural programs. Long-time Village resident and noted philanthropist, Dr. “Diva” Harriet Mertz, was honored for her contributions to the cultural arts.