Tis The Season

Presidents Message - December 2023

“Hark how the bells all seem to say, Throw cares away.” “Tis the season to be jolly!”

Let’s listen to those directions and celebrate a wonderful 2023 in this season of joy and giving. How blessed we’ve been to share our NSP talents with so many in our community through our performances: Reader’s Theater, Storytelling, Open Mic and Musical Revue as well as the exceptional Parkinson's programs: Taiko Drumming and Speech and Movement. Let’s bask in the warmth of the many friendships we have made and the appreciation of all of our audiences - each connection precious.

May you feel the joy and love that we at NextStage Productions send to each of you.

- Kathryn Adkins

Ho! Ho! Ho! Holiday Show

NextStage Players presented Holiday Party, a musical revue, to 8 senior residences over two weeks of December. That whirlwind performance schedule had the cast hopping from location to location. Nimble of foot, they sang and danced at “the party” while audiences were encouraged to join the fun. Christa Taylor, the party host, transitioned from the grump who had no spirit, singing Tom Lehrer’s satirical song about Christmas time being a time to “Buy”, to the hostess leading the cast and audience in the finale. Carol Hales, Carolyn Crocker, Ronna Schulkin and Bobbe Martin kept the spirits gay. (Was Carol really on Match.com?).

Mary Roitz enchanted the audience with “A Wink and a Smile”. What a joy to watch her work the crowd. Reggie McLain, Bob Mangels and Sandi Jo Stoltencamp warmed the hearts with their touching renditions of classic Christmas ballads.

Special thanks goes out to the three directors: Shari Gallegos, who also provided the set direction and sound tech, Cindy Gorski and Kathryn Adkins. These ladies proved that you can have multiple cooks in the kitchen and create a wonderfully joyous party.

Kudos to all.

Spotlight on Ronnie Schulkin

I’ve had the privilege of working with Ronna (call her Ronnie) in two shows, the fall Storytelling and now the Holiday show. What fun we are having. Ronnie brings a new vitality to our performances and a special gift- she likes to connect people to others. She reintroduced me to Corine Miller, the mother of the young prince cast in 1994 Cabrillo Stage production of The King and I with me.

Ronnie was kind enough to answer the following questions.

What drew you to NSP?

Thanks to NextStage for featuring me in the Spotlight. I am so happy I decided to join NextStage. I was looking for a way to perform in a group that gives back to our community. I love the opportunity to make new friends with other creative people who enjoy performance art.

What have you appreciated the most about the NSP activities?

NextStage has given me a place to sing which is one of my favorite things. It has also given me the chance to learn many new things about performance often taking me outside my comfort zone and, I love it!

What would you tell someone who is curious and/or thinking about joining NSP?

I would, and have, recommended NextStage to anyone who is looking to expand their community, meet wonderful new people, and try something new, creative and rewarding.

I know you will enjoy meeting Ronnie. She will brighten your day.

- Kathryn Adkins

Presidents Message - November 2023

Happy Thanksgiving!

What are we grateful for at NextStage Productions?
Could it be:

• the laughter and tears connecting audience and cast members during Readers Theater and Storytelling performances?

• the Parkinson’s program, Taiko Drumming and Speech and Movement, that continues to enrich so many lives?

• the new media alliances with our sister senior organizations, Mid County Senior and SCO?

• the deep friendships and support between NSP members?

It is the energy, joy and giving spirit fostered in NextStage Productions, for which I am grateful.

- Kathryn Adkins

Benefit for Taiko Drumming

The fabulous benefit for our Parkinson’s Taiko drumming class was a huge success. Thank you Glenn & Ellen for putting this fabulous afternoon together. Thank you wonderful performers - you were terrific!

Mary Roitz - accompanied by Glenn
Three of a Kind - Terrence Courreault, Catt Porter & Ron Locey
Sandi Jo Stoltenkamp
FourEverYoung - Glenn, Ellen, Maggie Pierce & Greg Abelar
- accompanied by David Cantu
Keith Kotka
Patti Maxine

Thank you volunteers who made everything run smoothly, and to Risa's talented son Stephan for providing the amazing food. Thanks also to Ann, one of our program participants, who donated a beautiful quilt to raffle, and congratulations to Terri who won it!

And thanks to all who gave so generously of their hearts and wallets to make this such a successful event.

We are overwhelmed with gratitude.

Look forward to next year!

-Risa Lower

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On behalf of the Parkinson's Community,  I am extending our thanks to NextStage Productions and all who put in their time to create such a wonderful event. As Risa Lower said, The music was great, the performers perfect, the venue wonderful, the food delicious and the committee's coordination flawless!   We so appreciate the collaboration with and support of NSP that enhances the quality of life for people living with Parkinson's.

Will definitely look forward to next year.  Hopefully we can get some drummers up on the stage for a demo~

Sincerely, Julie Lorraine
President,  EASE PD  (Exercise, Activities, Support and Education for Parkinson's Disease)

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A special thanks to not only all performers, but also to Patti Maxine who added her magical musical touches. We are also very grateful for El Vaquero and the Prikazky family for the use of their Winery and Tasting Room. With NextStage Productions' Health & Wellness and EASEPD supporting our local Parkinson's community, the journey continues. A very special thanks to Risa Lower, the heart and soul of the Parkinson's percussion program.
- Four Ever Young Musicians