(Pictured above: Elim Park residents Kathy Ross (left) and Sarah Uylaky (right) preparing for the performance.
At Elim Park, we believe in the transformative power of the arts to unite people of all ages. This summer, our Cheshire Youth Theatre (CYT) program exemplified this belief through a vibrant production of Disney’s Newsies Jr.
Cheshire Youth Theatre at Nelson Hall, which opens its doors to students 4th-12th grade, has always been a hub for young talent, nurturing creativity and fostering a strong sense of community. However, this year’s program reached new heights by including members of our Elim Park community. By casting our residents in pivotal “establishment” roles, we created a unique opportunity to bridge the generational gap and explore the powerful themes of social injustice, unity, and perseverance that resonate in both the Newsies story and our own world.
Over two intensive weeks, the theatre was alive with the energy of young performers and seasoned actors working side-by-side. From mastering lines to perfecting choreography, the cast immersed themselves in the world of the Newsies. The collaboration between generations was inspiring, as our young performers gained valuable insights from the life experiences of our residents, while our residents found renewed energy and creativity through their involvement.
Resident Sarah Uylaky says, “Working with these kids was a truly inspiring experience. Their kindness, beautiful manners, and unwavering dedication to their lines were a heartfelt tribute to their parents. Their energy and enthusiasm, combined with the sense of accomplishment we all felt in bringing it together, made this a joy from start to finish. Having done community theatre, this was my first time working with kids, and I would do it again in a heartbeat—it was that much fun!”
The Newsies Jr. production was more than just a performance; it was a testament to the power of theatre to connect people from different walks of life.
We are immensely proud of the success of this intergenerational collaboration and look forward to creating more opportunities for artistic expression and community building at Nelson Hall. Whether you’re a budding young actor or a seasoned performer, we invite you to join us on our next theatrical adventure.
