by Janet I. Martineau
A poet, a storyteller and a contingent of cloggers all proved last year that “Senior Moments” can be a good thing.
Ranging in age from 86 to a mere 62, they were the collective winners of the first ArtFest55 talent show at Midland’s Creative 360, 1517 Bayliss -- an event which also featured an 89-year-old stand-up comedian and a 75-year-old tap dancer with a top hat and cane.
“Senior Moments,” as the show is titled, returns to Creative 360, with performances slated for 2:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. Friday, July 29. The afternoon show is considered a dress rehearsal, with the judging taking place in the evening. The public can attend either performance, or both.
Each act is limited to 5 minutes of performance time, with a minute to set it up and a minute to break it down, and all of its performers must be at least age 55. Eligible are solos or groups; singers, dancers, musicians, comedians, poets, storytellers, short story writers, and actors doing skits or readings.
Those entering must live in the state of Michigan, and are selected on a first-come, first-served basis with the goal of creating a program featuring variety. The material does not have to be original, but if it is the judges will give a preferential nod. Since the performances are open to families, content must be suitable for all ages.
Creative 360 has en electric piano available for an accompanist or solo pianists. All other accompaniment must be provided on a single-selection and labeled CD.
Judging is done “American Idol”-style, with a panel of three bickering people ages 55 and older. The prizes are gift packages for first, second and third place.
The entry fee is $10 for each act. Applications must be received at Creative 360 postmarked no later than Monday, July 11, or hand-delivered no later than 3 p.m. Tuesday, July 12. They need to contain the name of the act, the performers (names, ages, addresses), a description of the act, the title and author of the piece, and contact information. DVDs or CDs of the act also are accepted but not required.
For more information, and the application form, go on line at www.becreative360.org or contact Colleen Reed at (989) 837-1885.
ArtFest55 also includes a juried art exhibition.
Janet, this is sooo great! I'm glad Creative 360 is doing it. There's an amazing amount of talent out there in the 50+ range! Too bad P&B gave up "The Over 50 Follies" -- it could have turned into a fun competition for our region.
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