What is your favorite hangout?
The Clubhouse [at Aloha Acres]. That’s where we rehearse for months, and once the shows are a wrap, we have our cast party! Besides that, it’s the local diners, like the College Diner or the New Paltz Diner.
What would we have never guessed about you?
That I’m a performer at my age. I sing, I dance, I direct! These shows are not about a bunch of seniors; they are incredible professional plays.
Where would we find you on Sunday mornings?
Well, while in production, at the Clubhouse. But outside of production? Exercising, which I do every day: walking, doing yoga, enjoying the outdoors with friends.
What talent do you wish you’d been given?
A better singing voice. If I had a greater voice, I would have pursued show business.
What is your favorite virtue?
Kindness. I’ve been blessed with so many people here who are just so kind and want to help and be a part of something bigger than themselves and challenge themselves. They’re my heroes!
What is your idea of happiness?
Making others happy, being part of something that makes other people laugh and enjoy themselves and feel positive about the world.
What occupation would you like to try besides your own?
Show biz!
What is your idea of misery?
So much! I can’t turn on the TV sometimes. I despise violence, bigotry and war. It hurts my soul.
What is your greatest fault?
Repeating myself. I do it all the time. I think it stems from being a remedial reading and math teacher and having to repeat things. But I can’t stop it now. I try! I really do! But so many things are worth repeating.
Which fault in others do you have the most tolerance for?
Forgetfulness. I encounter so many people who forget things or who forget names, and it’s not their fault; it’s age and dementia. And I love them! They can’t help it, and there is no need to apologize.
What is your favorite motto?
Respect other people, and live and let live. When I was born, my Daddy told me that I was to respect all other human beings unless they committed violence against me or my loved ones. I just don’t understand bigotry of any sort. I cannot tolerate racism or homophobia or bigotry of any sort, I just can’t. We have way too much to do in this world, way too much to celebrate and enjoy and heal. That’s what our productions are all about: bringing people out of their shells, making them part of something, enticing their talent out, bringing in community members, charging so little that our locals can afford a semi-professional Broadway play and in the end, donating whatever we make toward our emergency service providers.
