In this time of uncertainty, fear, and anxiety, it’s important to remember those that might be left out of the conversation. It’s easy for me to jump on a quick video call, connect on social media, share my thoughts on this podcast. But for many, including those in hospice or senior centers, social distancing is having a major impact.
That’s why I wanted to re-air my episode with Jackie Vanderbeck, the founder of Sing For Your Seniors. This episode rings more true than it ever has. I hope it inspires you to connect with a loved one in your life, and remember, we are all in this together. If you need any support, I’m doing Facebook Live events almost every day. Or reach out on Instagram. I’m here for you. And may this episode serve as a lighthouse during this time.
Jackie Vanderbeck is an actor, writer, and the Founder and Producing Artistic Director of Sing For Your Seniors (SFYS), a New York-based non-profit organization. SFYS’s mission is to enrich lives through the universal language of music by bringing professional artists to the communities of seniors in need to entertain, foster connection and create shared joy. Proudly focusing its service to low-income senior communities, LGBTQ+ elders, veterans and those living with Alzheimer’s and dementia, SFYS is a five-time recipient of the Quality of Life grant from Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS.
Before graduating in the founding class of the Natomas Charter School – Performing and Fine Arts Academy in Sacramento, Jackie spent her summers interning in Outreach and Education for California Music Theatre, where she cultivated her passion for ensuring theatre be accessible to all. Jackie went on to study performing arts at the University of Cincinnati – College-Conservatory of Music, receiving her BFA in Musical Theatre and the Ross Award for Excellence.
Some of Jackie’s theatre credits include the Denver Center Theatre Company, Pacific Conservatory Theatre, Sacramento Theatre Company, Broadway Sacramento - Music Circus, Shawnee Playhouse and two concert tours with the Tokyo Philharmonic in Japan. As a writer, Jackie’s first play with music, “THAW,” with co-creator, George Walker, received two workshops at the Pacific Conservatory Theatre.
Jackie is a member of the Actors Equity Association and the Dramatists Guild of America.
HIGHLIGHTS OF OUR CONVERSATION
6:57 - Learning more about Sing For Your Seniors (SFYS)
10:17 - The different communities SFYS reaches
14:01 - Jackie's favorite memories
18:49 - The incredible support of the community
20:30 - Finding new interpretations in old classics
21:49 - Staying connected to your artist’s passion
27:18 - Committing to one another
28:20 - Balancing charitable work and a career
30:45 - Connecting to the caregivers in your life
35:33 - Using your experiences and tools to connect to others
36:57 - The life-changing power of giving back
40:19 - How to get started with SFYS
41:34 - Giving back to SFYS no matter where you live or your singing ability
42:52 - The gift of Broadway
45:23 - Take action with these steps
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