A room full of laughter, applause and heartfelt performances highlighted the Sunday, Nov. 10 showing of “New Wrinkles: A Little Night Music” in Fresno City College at 2 p.m.
The annual senior showcase, now in its 37th year, captivated the audience at the OAB Auditorium, highlighting the remarkable talents of performers aged 55 and older, with the oldest cast member being 90.
Founded in 1988 with a grant from The Sears Roebuck Company, the New Wrinkles program offers seniors an opportunity to stay active physically, mentally, and creatively through the arts. Directed by David Bonetto, this year’s fall production featured a nostalgic mix of songs, heartfelt tributes and lively performances.
“Our mission for New Wrinkles has always been to bridge the gap between our senior demographic and our student demographic,” Bonetto said.
The production of New Wrinkles brings together seniors and students, giving both generations the opportunity to collaborate, learn from one another and create something meaningful.
“Our lighting designer is an FCC student doing his first lighting project, along with the music and band director. But most importantly, the gift is to empower them at any age to keep them active physically, mentally, emotionally, and creatively through the art of singing and dancing,” Bonetto said.
The Sunday afternoon performance showcased a blend of songs that delighted the audience, with the uplifting 1964 Anthony Newley and Leslie Bricusse’s “Feelin’ Good” to the 1982 song “Thriller” by Michael Jackson that had the crowd cheering.
One of the more touching moments came when the performers honored veterans in attendance with The Armed Forces Medley, a moving tribute to those who have served in the military. Veterans stood in the audience as the cast sang.
Anne Flanagan, whose father-in-law was part of the cast, reflected on the show’s significance.
“I did enjoy the show,” Flanagan said. “It was evident that they put a lot of work into it and they were really enjoying themselves. It was nice to see people who are a little older still have the opportunity to participate in doing something they really love.”
Flanagan also shared how attending a live performance differs from watching something on screen at home.
“I love watching live performances. You can feel the emotions more. It feels more interactive and sort of real,” Flanagan added.
Each year, the New Wrinkles program concludes with a performance that showcases the cast members’ hard work after eight weeks of preparation in voice, dance, and production classes. The performances highlight both the joy of the participants and the dedication they put into the production.
New Wrinkles is the last remaining senior showcase in the country, a testament to its long-lasting impact on both the performers and the audience, as noted by director Bonetto.
“To four junior colleges throughout the United States. New Wrinkles is the last remaining senior showcase here in the United States,” Bonetto said.
In addition to their annual performance at FCC, the New Wrinkles group takes part in outreach performances throughout the year, doing about 40 shows at various community events and sharing their passion for music and theater with audiences.
With its mission https://www.newwrinklesfresno.com/our-history-2/ of fostering creativity, celebrating seniors, and bridging generations, “New Wrinkles: A Little Night Music” continues to be a beloved and cherished program for both participants and the wider community.
