ArtsWorks is a specialized program designed for Senior performers. We invite adults to engage in performing arts without memorization and rigorous rehearsals. ArtsWorks inspires creative expression, social connection, and personal growth through a variety of performing arts activities tailored specifically for their needs. From play readings to singing sessions, This program offers seniors the opportunity to stay active, boost cognitive function, and forge meaningful connections within a supportive community.
All play readings are performed in the DTW Blackbox on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings at 730pm.
For Peter Pan on her 70th Birthday
A Staged Reading by Sarah Ruhl
October 29 & 30
When Ann thinks of her father, she immediately remembers playing Peter Pan in her hometown theater in Iowa, particularly when he used to bring her flowers after her performance. Her memory is jogged by the fact that she and her four siblings are in their father’s hospital room during his final moments. His death sparks a conversational wake that includes everything from arguments over politics to when each sibling realized that they grew up. A loving look at a family’s view of death, life and the allure of never growing up.
American Moor
A Staged Reading by Keith Hamilton Cobb
November 19 & 20
A seasoned African-American actor auditioning for the role of William Shakespeare’s iconic Black hero Othello must respond to the dictates of a younger white director who presumes to understand how to maximize the Black character for believability. What could possibly go wrong? A poetic exploration of Shakespeare, race, and America, not necessarily in that order.
Six Years Old
A Staged Reading by Daphne Silbiger
February 25 & 26
Adalaide is six years old, and she knows a few things: Her stupid babysitter Kim is stupid, her younger brother Dewey is an idiot and she does NOT like being treated like a girl. Though Kim takes Adalaide’s frustrations seriously and tries to offer support, Adalaide’s family and peers discourage her, leaving her to seek out dangerous measures in order to transform into who she was born to be (her hero, Han Solo). Played with a cast of Senior actors, SIX YEARS OLD is a comic and poignant play reflecting back on the wild fantasies and serious desires of queer childhood.
Straight White Men
A Staged Reading by Young Jean Lee
March 25 & 26
When Ed and his three adult sons come together to celebrate Christmas, they enjoy cheerful trash-talking, pranks, and takeout Chinese. Then they confront a problem that even being a happy family can’t solve: When identity matters, and privilege is problematic, what is the value of being a straight white man?
Gladys in Wonderland
A Staged Reading by
Rosemary Frisino Toohey
April 29 & 30
87-year-old Gladys' days of munching donuts and scouring the obituaries seem numbered when Death himself comes knocking on her door one morning. Ready to whisk her off into the great unknown, her cheerful grim reaper is startled by Gladys' stubborn refusal to expire. In order to push Gladys toward the light, he ushers in a parade of obnoxious friends and relatives who nitpick and whine. He also gives her a taste of nursing home life from an inmate's point of view. Suddenly, the afterlife doesn't look so bad
In Person Auditions:
Join us on:
Saturday, June 8th at 10:00 AM
Saturday, June 8th at 2:00 PM
Tuesday, June 11th at 6:30pm
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Self-tape Submissions: Send us your audition via self-tape with the link below. Make sure to include a brief introduction and showcase your talents. Submissions can be sent at any time, first considerations begin May 30th.