Celebrating the heart of our community: Meet Seniors in Play
September 4, 2024
In San Antonio, the backbone of the city has been heavily influenced by the love and desire to cherish a unique community. In this vibrant world of community enrichment and lifelong learning, one organization stands out for its dedication to empowering seniors through the arts. Seniors in Play, a trailblazer in promoting creative engagement and social connection among older adults, is set to host a spectacular event that promises to be the highlight of the year: the San AnTony Awards Gala. This event will celebrate the outstanding contributions of San Antonio individuals who have supported their mission. Honorees at this year’s gala include three exceptional individuals: Erika Prosper, the First Lady of San Antonio & Senior Director of Customer Insights at H-E-B, George Hernandez, President/CEO at University Health System, and Justin Rodriguez, Bexar County Commissioner, Precinct 2. The San AnTony Awards will be held at the Tobin Center for the Performing Arts on Sept. 17.
Reflecting on the essence of community, one is reminded of the generations that have shaped it — families, neighbors, grandparents, and their ancestors. Their collective spirit, sacrifices, and love have laid the foundation for a city full of culture, joy, and loyalty — The San Antonio familia. This is the driving factor behind Seniors in Play. Founded in 2017 by award-winning actor Tony Plana, Seniors in Play is a spirited nonprofit organization that looks to performing arts as a way of developing senior citizens’ well-being and maintaining cognitive health with a focus on a playful and social environment where vitality is key. They were founded with the belief that creativity and self-expression are vital components of a fulfilling life. Seniors in Play offers a range of programs designed to encourage participation, foster community, and celebrate the rich contributions of older adults in the cultural landscape.
With a dedicated team of professionals and volunteers, Seniors in Play provides workshops, performances, and social events that invite seniors to explore their artistic talents, engage in meaningful interactions, and enjoy the numerous benefits of theater. The organization’s commitment to inclusivity and empowerment shines through in every initiative, making it a beloved foundation of the senior community in San Antonio.
Seniors in Play is notable for its diverse programs tailored to stimulate the creative spirit of senior citizens. Plana developed comprehensive 48-hour courses that guide seniors through innovative and playful theatrical programs. These programs include Theater Workshops that offer seniors the opportunity to hone their acting skills, explore improvisation, and develop stage presence and performance opportunities that provide platforms for seniors to showcase their talents in local productions, enhancing their confidence and sense of accomplishment.
Each program at Seniors in Play is thoughtfully designed to cater to varying levels of experiences and interests, ensuring that every senior participant can find a meaningful and enjoyable way to engage with the arts. With these workshops, seniors are able to explore their creativity, learn to better express themselves, think on their feet and communicate effectively, gain confidence, and find connections.
Beyond their enriching programs, Seniors in Play is deeply committed to giving back to the community. This organization regularly partners with other nonprofits, local businesses, and community leaders to extend their impact and support broader initiatives. The San AnTony Awards Gala is a prime example of this dedication.
“Our mission is to enrich the lives of older adults through the transformative power of arts and play,” said Plana. “The San AnTony Awards allows us to recognize those who have made a profound impact on our work, ensuring that our seniors have the opportunity to thrive through creative engagement.”
Proceeds from this local gala will directly benefit Seniors in Play’s ongoing programs, allowing the organization to continue offering high-quality, accessible arts education and performance opportunities. By attending the gala, attendees not only celebrate the achievements of the theater community but also contribute to a cause that enhances the lives of seniors and promotes their active participation in the arts.
“Seniors in Play is about building a vibrant community for our older adults,” said Agneles Valenciano, board chair of Seniors in Play. “This event is not only a celebration of our achievements but also a call to action. We honor those who have supported our mission and inspire others to join us in making a difference in the lives of our seniors.”
The San AnTony Awards Gala will be held on Sept. 17. This memorable gala promises an evening of elegance, entertainment, and inspiration. Set against the backdrop of a dazzling celebration of theater, this event offers attendees a unique opportunity to support a worthy cause while enjoying a night filled with captivating performances, fine dining, and the chance to mingle with like-minded individuals who share a passion for the arts and community enrichment.
Don’t miss out on this extraordinary event! Tickets and tables for the San AnTony Awards Gala at the Tobin Performing Arts Center are now available for purchase at SeniorsInPlay.com. Join the community by securing a spot, and ensure a memorable night out celebrating the vital work of Seniors in Play. This participation makes a difference, and together, the community will work to empower and inspire seniors through the arts.
For more information about Seniors in Play and their upcoming Gala, please visit SeniorsInPlay.com or follow them on social media @seniorsinplay. If you are interested in sponsorship opportunities, please contact Denise Thieme at 210-708-1784 or dthieme@seniorsinplay.org.