One Family at a Time
"One Family at a Time" (2010-2011)
During discussion at a dinner party, the guests begin to talk about the folks who have not returned to New Orleans. They talk about the problems in the city: the violence, the lack of decent schools and health care. How can families come home when the city is in such turmoil? The answer the guests come up with is that each of us needs to become active and get involved. After the performance, the company asks the audience what problems do we have that were not brought up in the play. When a problem is raised, the cast questions what audience members can do to improve that situation.
THE COMPANY
ELIZABETH DUMAS
I’m 88 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 (95 years old), I try to bring hope and joy to those who have added many years to their life.
JUDY GALLAN
I am 71years 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.
SARAH JAMES
Playwright, director, musician, ballroom dancer, party-goer. I am a retired Professor of Theatre who enjoys a lot of variety in life--especially the party-going. And working with this group has been a delightful party!
PATSY GRAFE
I am recently retired (Yeah!). I have three children and seven grandchildren. My hobbies are “staying active, “ exercising, walking, dancing, and reading. I am new to the drama group and enjoy meeting new people. My goal is to stay healthy in mind and spirit and enjoy life to the fullest.
DOLORES HUNTER
My name is Dolores, and I’m 80 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 67 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.
ALINE ST. JULIEN
I am 85 years old. I have 7 living children who have now become my parents. I am a member of the Uptown Shepherd’s Center who is very happy to be in drama. I love music and dancing.
JOHN WARREN
I am 79 years old and retired ten years ago from banking and management. I have never been in theatre until after retirement. Driving the Uptown Shepherd Center van, I heard others speak of the Golden Heart Players and became interested. This has been creative, fun, and an excellent experience in communication.
LOU FURMAN, Director
With some 50 years in theatre experience in professional and educational settings, my work with the Golden Heart Players has been some of my most rewarding. The members of the company truly have golden hearts.