Seniors take center stage in theater troupe in Normal

NORMAL (25News Now) - “Young at Heartland” is a theatre troupe for people ages 55 and up. This week, the organization is holding its Senior Summer Showcase.

Every spring and fall, there is a two-month acting workshop to prepare for performances at McLean County nursing homes and civic groups. But, the showcase they’re having for the public this week is another way to see them on stage.

“We got started with the idea that there were seniors that would like to act and there are seniors who would like to see seniors act,” said Ann B. White, who founded “Young at Heartland” 22 years ago, and currently serves as program director.

At this week’s performances, it’s older adults in the spotlight for short scenes poking fun at everything from bad theater manners to medication side effects.

“We have created a theater family, because we’re all knowing that everyone can use a little help now and then, so we look out for each other,” White said.

White is acting in the troupe herself, playing a woman who wakes up early to try and reserve a park bench before others get there.

Cast member Randy Rentfro is taking the stage again after a 44-year break while he spent his career as a college professor. He didn’t have time for acting when he was teaching, but now he’s excited to return to a craft he honed before that part of his life.

“For me, it’s a thrill to just be out there entertaining people, hopefully getting a good response from them,” Rentfro said.

He and his husband joined the group together. Last fall, Rentfro played a believer hoping to be abducted by aliens, and this summer he is a man determined to make his opinion heard at the local grocery store.

Rentfro described “Young at Heartland” as a low-pressure, high-support environment.

The group’s two performances are Wednesday at 7:30 p.m. and Friday at 2 p.m. at Heartland Theatre in Normal. There’s no connection to the community college of the same name. The performance venue is at 1110 Douglas Street at One Normal Plaza.

Admission is free, but donations are accepted to help with program expenses.

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