Top row (l-r): Winford Nance, Willa Rhodes, Janet Williams, Bettilyn Bush, Barbara Randolph, Pearl Kelly, Robert Gregory; 2nd Row (l-r): Pat Patterson, Polly Fitzpatrick, Brenda Wilson; 3rd Row (l-r): Barbara Smith, Myron Pitts, Shirley Buckner, JoAnn Jones, JoAnn Moton, Margaret Beach, and Center front: Adrean Gregory. Photo by Wanda Clay
Dancers, singers, dramatists and excited onlookers will gather at the Looby Theatre, 2301 Rosa Parks Blvd., as the Senior Highsteppers present a Spring Extravaganza Showcase at 6 pm.
State Sen. Thelma Harper, State Representatives Brenda Gilmore and Harold Love as well as other elected officials have been invited to share in this evening of excitement that will serve as a fundraiser for the seniors and dancers at Hartman Park Community Center.
This is actually the second event of this kind, as last year the event was called, ‘Talents of Hartman Park & Guests.’
Just as last year, other dancers from around the city will participate, along with actors who will present skits and singers also performing.
The Senior Highsteppers began as a senior exercise class in 2005. The class, ‘Dance Into Shape,’ was held at the Looby Center as a means for 50+ year olds to get into shape. After several months of dancing for exercise, they formed a dance group, under the leadership of Adrean Gregory. Gregory is currently the director of the Hartman Park Community Center and choreographer of the Highsteppers.
Since that time, the Highsteppers have performed for many community events, special occasions, and organizations.
“This is a unique and energetic group of seniors who not only enjoy dancing, but they are also very aware of caring for their physical and mental health benefits,” said Margaret Beach, president of the Highsteppers.
This showcase is not only a fundraiser, but is an insight into the type of activities that are offered and the type of enjoyment the seniors and other park visitors have.
The event coordinator is Felissa Reese, program director.
For more information, contact M. Beach at 615-242-2307. The Looby Center is located at 2301 Rosa Parks Blvd.
