Retirement News : Seniors : Seniors rejuvenated by their Russian role

Seniors rejuvenated by their Russian role

Date Added: 18-07-2005

With their choreographed Russian folk dances and brightly colored traditional costumes, the members of Adult Day Health Center's performing troupe look like professional entertainers.
But if you look closely at their rainbow-colored aprons and flowered wreaths, you'll notice that the costumes were proudly homemade - out of tablecloths and other materials in the Bensonhurst center.

"We just save money and do something creative," said recreation therapist and troupe founder Irina Savkub.

Under Savkub's tutelage, a group of about 30 seniors have discovered a new calling - rehearsing and performing songs and dances for residents of elder care facilities.

Last week at the Shorefront Jewish Geriatric Center, the group sang passionate renditions of Yiddish and Russian classics. Moved by the music, performers found dancing partners and waltzed around the room.

Shorefront residents who use wheelchairs clapped their hands as the troupe sang "Tumbalalaika," "L'Chaim" and other favorites.

Savkub rehearses with the group three times a week, a favorite activity at the center.

"They're asking, 'What time we have rehearsal today?" she said, referring to her eager students. "It's just all talented people."

Like several of her fellow performers, emcee Faina Kaplun, 75, had never previously sang in public.

"I used to sing, but only in the kitchen or with friends," the Moscow native said.

But the singers' enthusiasm compensates for their lack of experience.

Maxine Hochhauser, executive vice president of Metropolitan Jewish Health System, said the performers and the audience members benefit from the entertainment.

"As people get older, the ability to connect to something that was part of their past and part of their heritage can be really positive," Hochhauser said.

Belarussian singer Galina Shulman, 77, said, "Some of the songs remind us about our youth, about our previous life."

But "God Bless America" and "America the Beautiful" have also made their way into the group's repertoire.

"We like English songs, and try to associate with the people here," Shulman said. "We're very thankful to America."

The retired teacher from Borough Park said she finds satisfaction in performing for her peers.

"It's a pleasure to see smiles on their faces, that we bring something pleasant for people, a piece of joy," Shulman said.

Kaplun said the troupe has helped her form new connections.

"We found many friends, we got new relationships," she said. "In the morning, we feel we have to dress up and go and meet friends."

Savkub said performing has a profound effect on the men and women of the Adult Day Health Center.

"It doesn't matter how they feel, maybe with pain," Savkub said. "It really helps them feel happy. For them, it's very important."

For More Information: http://www.nydailynews.com/boroughs/story/328786p-281029c.html