News

Performer braves the elements for the show to go on

June 10th, 2020

COVID-19 visiting restrictions are still in effect in congregate living homes, but outside-visiting continues to expand connections and experiences for residents. A fine creative example of this happened during Seniors Week (June 1-7) at Points West Living Heritage House in Vegreville. Local performer, Tony Mapa performed a concert outside, while residents watched and listened inside; out of the pouring rain that threatened the performance.

Residents inside watch and listen to show outside

Tony set up his keyboard, microphone, and speakers on the patio just outside the main dining room. Inside the dining room, residents were able to watch and listen through open doors, with lots of room to maintain the required 6-foot physical distancing.

“I was afraid Mother Nature would not cooperate, and I was right,” says recreation coordinator Kathy Sawchuk. “Tony was scheduled to start at 1:30, and at 1:20 it rained quite hard for 10-15 minutes.”

Tarp shelters performer

“Tony did not want to cancel because he misses playing as much as we miss listening to him,” Kathy says. “So, I hunted around for a tarp, some props to hold up the tarp, and Tony was able to start right on time. What a trooper he was!”

Residents join in... with spoons!

An employee care partner brought out some spoons for residents to play, and they enjoyed accompanying Tony for a few songs.

Photo: Local entertainer, Tony Mapa is all smiles, sheltered under a sky-blue tarp in the courtyard, while he plays through a rainstorm for residents inside PWL Heritage House in Vegreville.

More photos at Flickr: Performer braves the elements for the show to go on