Readers Theater performs at Park Terrace in Buffalo

AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP, Readers Theater volunteers paid a visit to the residents of Park Terrace, in Buffalo, on Thursday, July 23. 

Consisting of six members who read to residents every third Thursday of the month at Park Terrace, volunteers with Readers Theater bring stories to life through expansive readings that engage the minds and imaginations of listeners. Retelling and sharing classic stories and folk tales can be beneficial for memory care and cognition, using familiar structures, repetition, and recognition to strengthen and build positive brain connections.

“Reading familiar stories with older adults can be a meaningful way to encourage conversation, social interaction, and cognitive engagement,” stated AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP Program Coordinator Amy Johnson. “Stories with recognizable themes, characters, or life experiences often spark memories, invite participation, and help people connect with one another. Even when every detail isn’t remembered, the shared experience of reading together can bring comfort, joy, and a sense of belonging.”

Park Terrace Activities Director Susan Okie shared that she was contacted by AmeriCorps Senior RSVP about the possibility of Readers Theater performing for memory care residents. The readings were popular amongst attendees and soon expanded to all residents of Park Terrace. 

“It’s been a hit. We look forward to it. It’s been a popular event. It’s like going to a theater,” stated Okie. 

Readers Theater also visits the Annandale Care Center on a regular basis, as well as doing readings for children at the Maple Lake Library. The group hopes to grow and expand by adding new members and performing readings at area schools. 

The volunteers with Readers Theater are a passionate and heart-filled bunch who choose stories they feel will resonate with listeners. At Park Terrace, the group performed four readings. The first was a reenactment of a scene from the signing of the Declaration of Independence to commemorate the Fourth of July, titled, “All Men are Created Equal,” set in 1776. Readers performed the roles of the Founding Fathers, including John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Jefferson, and George Washington. 

The second performance was from a reading titled, “Puma Learns a Lesson” a Spanish folk tale about an arrogant puma who mistreats smaller animals until a humble creature comes along and teaches it kindness and respect.   

The third reading was a segment from a classic tale written by The Brothers Grimm, titled, “The Bremen Town Musicians,” about a donkey, dog, cat, and rooster who face harsh treatment from their owners and run away to become musicians in the town of Bremen. The portrayal received a lot of smiles and chuckles from the audience, especially after a hearty “cock-a-doodle-doo” by reader Lucinda McCoy, who performed the part of rooster.  

The group finished with a fourth reading from Roald Dahl’s rendition of the classic tale “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs,” with each reader taking on various character parts and roles.  

Members of Readers Theater received a round of applause, along with several compliments, and a lot of “thank yous” after the performance was complete.  

About Readers Theater 

Readers Theater members come from the Wright County area with volunteers residing in Annandale, Buffalo, and Delano. 

Group member, Jane Erickson, learned about the opportunity to be a reader by attending a volunteer event hosted by AmeriCorps RSVP. “I went to a meeting about RSVP opportunities, and I looked through the big, long list, and I chose this one. It was just starting, about two years ago. We have a lot of fun and a lot of laughs.” Erickson also highlighted the benefits of volunteering, such as opportunities to stay connected and give back to others. 

The group is looking to grow and add new members. Readings last about a half hour. Readers Theater also performs for a younger audience, toddler to elementary age, with readings at area libraries and elementary schools in Buffalo and Maple Lake. 

Those interested in volunteering are encouraged to contact Amy Johnson with AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP. Amy can be reached at 763-765-3036 or by email at: amy.johnson@ci.stcloud.mn.us.