Voices of our Elders

Rehearsal of “Orphan Girl”; pictured is Darvis Taylor, Stormy Hildreth and Grisha Krivchenia – Contributed photo

The Up Close project brings the stories, wisdom, artistry, and humor of Island elders to the stage of San Juan Community Theatre’s Gubelman Theatre this Friday and Saturday, September 15-16 at 7:30 pm and Sunday, September 17 at 2:00 p.m. Tickets are available at the SJCT Box Office (360) 378-3210 or online at www.sjctheatre.org

Local composer and pianist Grisha Krivchenia teamed up with SJCT to present such stories after working on a similar project in New Mexico. “I had the great privilege of writing original songs with hospice patients in Santa Fe, New Mexico and was very keen to write songs with and for my Island community,” said Grisha. “Our elders have powerful words to share from a lifetime of experience, and a song delivers their messages beautifully.”

Several islanders have been working with Grisha since May and have written songs, readings or poetry.

Voices of our Elders

“Orphan Girl”  – Nedra Thomas with Grisha Krivchenia
“Lullaby for Mama” – Sara Patten
“Two Steps Forward” – Eleanor Parnes with Susan Matthews
“Adria” – Chuck Fisher with Grisha Krivchenia
“Reflections” – John Moore with Mary Karen Ryan
“The Long Winter” – Lillian Siegel with Grisha Krivchenia
“Seven Knots” – Lee Brewer with Grisha Krivchenia
“the river runs swiftly beneath my feet” – Cynthia Church
“The Wilderness in Me” – Shann Weston with Grisha Krivchenia

Performers
Stormy Hildreth
Darvis Taylor
Grisha Krivchenia
Sara Patten
Eleanor Parnes
Chuck Fisher
John Moore
Shannon Kelley
Cynthia Church

You can support the San Juan Update by doing business with our loyal advertisers, and by making a one-time contribution or a recurring donation.