SUBMITTED PHOTO
Patricia Foresman

This week, staff writer Laura Rysz talks with Patricia Foresman about the upcoming auditions for the “Seniors Got Talent” at Peoples Security Bank Theater at Lackawanna College in April.

  • Residence: Clarks Summit
  • Professional background: Past president of the Junior Century Club; original member of Standing Room Only Community Theater Ensemble, serving in various capacities for more than 20 years; and served on the board of Broadway Theatre League of Northeastern Pennsylvania.
  • Title: Artistic director

 

Q: How many years has “Seniors Got Talent” been a tradition?

A: This is the eighth annual “Seniors Got Talent.” The theme of this year’s show is “The Spirit of Show Business.”

Q: Who are auditions open to?

A: The auditions are open to all types of performers in the community who are age 55 or older. We encourage seniors to brush up on their talents, come out to the auditions and have fun. This is a great way for the community to see the endless talents of our local seniors. Those auditioning will be greeted by a panel of judges who come from all areas of the community: business, music, theater and those who love a good show.

Q: What is the mission of United Neighborhood Centers of Northeastern Pennsylvania?

A: For 97 years, United Neighborhood Centers has embraced its mission to work together with neighbors to provide services and create opportunities that empower individuals and build strong, interdependent communities.

Q: How will proceeds be used?

A: Proceeds benefit the programs and services offered at United Neighborhood Centers of Northeastern Pennsylvania’s four Active Older Adult Community Centers in Lackawanna County.

Q: What talents have been displayed in the past?

A: The show has become one of wide diversity and huge talent. Instrumental presentations with everything from the accordion to the grand piano, the guitar to the saw (yes, the saw). Singers abound with opera to jazz and pop to country. What makes the show so much fun, along with showcasing talent, is how the performers are so enthusiastic. We have had storytellers, poetry readers, stand-up comics and an impressionist. Then, add line dancers, ballroom dancers and tap dancers. We have seen them all, and the magnitude of enthusiasm is almost as incredible as the talent.

Q: How has the event grown over the years?

A: It started as a small event at the West Scranton center in 2013 to showcase the talents of local seniors and also support UNC’s four Active Older Adult Community Centers in Lackawanna County. The following year, “Seniors Got Talent” moved to the big stage at Lackawanna College and has been growing in popularity ever since. This community boasts a large senior population, and each year more and more folks want to be a part of the show. And what a show it is! Guest judges from the community will choose three winners who will win cash prizes, and the audience gets to vote for their favorite during intermission.

 

If you go

  • What: Auditions for “Seniors Got Talent’
  • When: Wednesday, Feb. 19, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.; Thursday, Feb. 20, 2 to 4 p.m.; and Monday, Feb. 24, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
  • Where: Oppenheim Center for the Arts, 1004 Jackson St., Scranton
  • Details: There is no cost to audition. Call 570-346-0759, ext. 114, to register or visit uncnepa.org for an audition application.

 

  • What: “Seniors Got Talent”
  • When: Sunday, April 26
  • Where: Peoples Security Bank Theater at Lackawanna College, 501 Vine St., Scranton
  • Details: Tickets cost $15 and can be purchased by calling, 570-346-0759, ext. 114, or by visiting uncnepa.org. Proceeds benefit United Neighborhood Center’s of NEPA