Life in New Orleans
"Life in New Orleans" (2009-2010)
The title has two meanings. The first is all the wonderful things that are in New Orleans. The play takes us on a New Orleans journey that takes us to Cafe DuMonde, a traditional cemetery, Jazz Fest and a number of side paths as well. Its second meaning is literally a journey through life. We witness the aging of a mother into a grandmother and her children into mothers of their own. The play explores the problem faced by children when they reach the conclusion that their mother can no longer take care of herself. But grandma is not ready to accept their plans.
THE COMPANY
ELIZABETH DUMAS
I’m 87 years old and live in Carrollton. I have 2 daughters. I like coming to the Uptown Shepherd’s Center every day and enjoy my drama and sewing class. I’m learning how to sew on a machine for the first time. I really enjoy helping people, especially old people – even though I am an older person myself.
INGE ELSAS
I am a child of the world having lived, learned, and worked all over Europe, Brazil, Argentina, North Africa, and Egypt. As a retired social worker, registered nurse, and therapist, I have transferred my love for children to love, concern, and protection for the elderly. Being an aging person myself (94 years old), I try to bring hope and joy to those who have added many years to their life.
JUDY GALLAND
I am 70 years old. I lived in Malta Park. The only family I have left are two cousins, Diane and Caroline. I went to Lafayette School. I like to dance, sing, go to shows, and party.
DOLORES HUNTER
My name is Dolores, and I’m 79 years young! I belong to the St. Francis DeSales Church. I love to sing, so I belong to one of the largest black gospel choirs in the United States, Golden Voices. I love to sew and do volunteer work, especially at Uptown Shepherd’s Center.
LODONIA MICHEL
I’m 66 years old. I love to read, watch TV, and enjoy traveling. I worked as a medical transcriptionist for 41 years at Charity Hospital. Since retiring, I enjoy volunteering at the Uptown Shepherd’s Center and going to classes there, especially French and Poetry. I joined the drama group at the Center and I am enjoying it.
DOROTHY MOELY
I grew up on a farm in Prairie du Sac, Wisconsin. I lived there for 35 years until my father died in 1970. I love to read, watch TV, and write. When I was 55 years old, I moved to New Orleans. I live here almost 9 years. I have a sister, 2 nephews, and 2 dogs. The Golden Heart Players is a lot of fun and it keeps me active.
ALINE ST. JULIEN
I am 83 years old. I have 7 living children who have now become my parents. I am a relatively new member of the Uptown Shepherd’s Center who is happy to be in drama. I love music and dancing.
JANELL MICHEL, Assistant Director
I’m an 83 year old female having the time of my life in a drama class for the first time! I live with my daughter in Uptown New Orleans. I like to read, watch television, write poetry, play games and do things with my daughter. I used to like to travel by tour bus, but can’t do that much anymore. The Uptown Shepard’s Center gives me a place to go to be with other seniors.
LOU FURMAN, Director
Lou is well experienced in dealing with non-trained as well as professional actors. He is a member of the Society of Stage Directors and Choreographers, has been Artistic Director of several professional companies, and has taught theatre at university and secondary school levels. Lou is a Registered Drama Therapist who has facilitated drama activity with the elderly on numerous occasions.