In 2016, EngAGE began delivering our signature programming Minneapolis, MN, during a tenure that continued for over two years. Our first offering was a 10-week storytelling class in partnership with CommonBond Communities, the affordable housing developer, in its Riverview Senior Housing community in Minneapolis. “The Power of Storytelling,” which explored the power of personal storytelling, was taught by T. Mychael Rambo, a regional Emmy Award-winning actor, vocalist, arts educator, and community organizer. It culminated in the “Artfully Aging RadioHour” project, a performance by participants in two live shows in January of 2017, at the Pillsbury House + Theatre in Minneapolis, recorded for radio broadcast and podcast.
The “Artfully Aging Radio Hour” was a collaboration between EngAGE’s “Experience Talks” radio show, Common Bond Communities, Pillsbury House + Theatre, Hippocrates Café, and Aroha Philanthropies. It was co-directed by Pillsbury House + Theatre’s Faye Price, and instructor T. Mychael Rambo. Dr. Jon Hallberg of the Hippocrates Café served as host of the event. Actors (including instructor T. Mychael) were called in to perform the pieces created by students who declined to appear on stage. ~ Enjoy!
We successfully transitioned the EngAGE Heartland programs to our two development partners there: CommonBond and Good Samaritan. Those partners continue to provide EngAGE programs in multiple communities.