DAMARISCOTTA

With a lively production of skits, songs and dance, the Midcoast seniors of Hearts Ever Young are taking to the stage to prove that age doesn’t mean a thing when it comes to showbiz.

Comprised of more than 45 members 65 and older, HEY will perform their new show, “Love That Song,” later this month at the Lincoln Theater in Damariscotta.

“The mission is just to really let older folks enjoy music and delivering it and singing for other people. And we do have to work them hard, because we want this to be presented in a good light — and they do quite well!” said Producer and Artistic Director Carol Teel, who has a background in choreography, musical theater and dance — especially tap.

“It’s really amazing what they all do,” she added.

Most of the group’s members are in their late 70s and 80s, with a few in their 90s according to Teel.

“The research that’s been done with music, how it improves your memory and is also the last thing that leaves your brain,” said Teel. “Music is really good for the brain! It’s good to keep them interested, and they work really hard.”

“Love That Song” will be the group’s eighth show in the same number of years and will feature a number of favorite routines from past years as well as a few new numbers.

“It was very campy at the very beginning, but very charming. And then we kept getting more energy and more excited about the things we were doing.” said Teel. “We just keep stepping it up every year.”

“We’ve done everything from the war years to a salute to the silver screen to Broadway, so we try to keep it very, very lively,” she added.

The review ranges from a “chair-tap” dance performance of “Tip-Toe Through the Tulips” to classic musical numbers such as “How Do You Solve A Problem Like Maria?” from “The Sound of Music” to unforgettable comedy bits like “Who’s On First.”

Teel receives help in organizing the various song and dance numbers from choreographer Carol Cirigliano, though Teel herself handles the tap numbers. Music Director Sean Fleming helped select and arrange the music for the performance and will be accompanying the singers on the piano.

“He’s a brilliant, brilliant musician,” said Teel. “He’s very modest, but he’s an incredibly pianist … and we’re happy to have him.”

The production will be emceed by local actor Nick Azzaretti, who has served in that role for several years.

“I just enjoy seeing folks of all ages getting up here and sing and dancing and having a great time,” said Azzaretti. “And the audience is always really up and happy and supportive.”

“It’s fun to just keep things moving along,” he added.

The first performance will by Thursday, May 18th, at 7p.m., followed by two matinee performances on Friday, May 19th, and Saturday, May 20th, at 2 p.m. Hearts Ever Young, Inc is a nonprofit organization, and suggests a $10 donation at the door from those planning to attend.

nstrout@timesrecord.com

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