Celebrating Creativity: Seniors in Play Shines in San Antonio
San Antonio is buzzing with excitement as the Seniors in Play program gears up for its annual San AnTONY awards at the Tobin Center on September 17. This special event will highlight not just the amazing talent of older adults, but also the incredible community support that makes it all possible.
A Joyous Gathering
Picture this: Hollywood actor Tony Plana, known for his memorable roles in films like “Officer and a Gentleman” and the hit television series “Ugly Betty,” sharing laughs with vibrant seniors like Catherine Lee, Wanda Webbe, and Bill Gundry. This heartwarming scene unfolded back in 2018 during a performance at the Doris Griffins Senior Center. That night, Plana, alongside Gundry, led an acting workshop specifically designed for adults aged 65 and older.
With Seniors in Play now celebrating its journey, the nonprofit has blossomed under Plana’s guidance since its inception in 2017. The goal? To provide older residents with a creative outlet that fuels their well-being and allows them to connect with others in a joyful environment.
Raising the Curtain on the Awards Show
The San AnTONY awards show is more than just a night of recognition; it’s an opportunity to honor the dedication of seniors, senior centers, educators, volunteers, and generous donors who have contributed to the Seniors in Play initiative. This year, Plana will take on the role of host, introducing an exciting line-up that includes Jesse Borrego, an actor originally from San Antonio.
Among those to be honored this year are Erika Prosper, known as the First Lady of San Antonio, George Hernandez, the former president and CEO of University Health System, and Justin Rodriguez, Bexar County Precinct 2 Commissioner. The awards will take place from 6 to 9 p.m., with enthusiastic participation from program members like Mary Williams and Bob Hall, who look forward to showcasing their talents.
An Electrifying Performance
Last year’s event reached a climax when Rosemary Ybanez Livar, a program member, dazzled the audience with her rap performance titled “I Ain’t Never Been Old.” At 68, she confidently inspired others by celebrating the beauty of aging. “Open up your mind,” she rapped, reminding everyone that there’s no crime in getting older. “It’s important to accept who we are today and stop wishing for days gone by,” Livar emphasized in a phone interview.
Powerful Connections and Creativity
Seniors in Play isn’t just about acting; it’s about cultivating friendships and fostering creativity within a supportive community. With free classes offered at 13 senior centers throughout San Antonio, the program encourages participants to embrace their unique stories and talents. Plana highlights the transformative power of creativity and the camaraderie that develops among participants. “This is where the real connection happens,” he shared, explaining how sharing experiences nurtures a sense of belonging.
A Warm Welcome for All
Bob Hall, a retired Navy veteran and participant since 2019, finds great joy in being part of this creative family. He recalls finding the program through a poster while at a water aerobics class. “It’s fun to get on stage and pretend to be somebody I’m not,” Hall shared. His favorite performances range from playing a magical fairy to a cowboy ghost.
As the upcoming awards show approaches, Livar is gearing up for another performance, eager to share her musical journey. The program has propelled her into new artistic ventures, including a music video and a role in an independent film. “Some people grow up and some grow old,” she wisely notes. “But I know who I am. Seniors in Play helps me celebrate who I am.”
A Community Effort
The success of Seniors in Play is a testament to the hard work of its members and supporters. Sponsors like Community First Health Plans, Frost Bank, and many others have made this creative outlet possible for seniors ready to embrace a new chapter in their lives. Encouraging older adults to stretch beyond their comfort zones has become a theme, echoing across the laughter and applause at the Tobin Center.
So, as the city of San Antonio gears up for the San AnTONY awards, excitement fills the air for what promises to be a splendid celebration of talent, community, and above all, the indomitable spirits of our cherished seniors.
