Golden Years, Golden Talent: Trenton Seniors Shine in Battle Monument Park Talent Show
A senior talent show recently took place at the Battle of Monument. It was the fourth annual “Seniors Play in the Park” presented by Donna Wellons, aka Donna Dee. The hour-long variety show featured an assortment of talent including song, dance, and poetry, followed by an Honorary Recognition Ceremony to seniors who have made significant contributions to drama, in addition to recognizing some of Trenton’s beloved personal trainers. Featured seniors included Alma L. Day, Ivery Avery, Rose Bennett, Marion Parish, Karen Jones, and The Golden Girls.
Wellons started “Seniors Play in the Park” in 2021. The first three years they performed a drama presentation. Wellons is a playwright who, over the years, produced three plays and a mystery dinner in Trenton. Originally the plays were put on at the Pavilion at Cadwalader Park. “It was almost like a ballroom outside. That’s what it reminded me of,” said Wellons. She didn’t think anyone would sponsor the event, but after running it by Crystal Feliciano, Councilwoman At-Large, it was suggested Wellons petition sponsors.
“That’s what I did,” said Wellons. Each year there was a different play, and seniors were fed lunch under the pavilion. But this year, Wellons wanted to do something different. “I decided to feature senior talent as opposed to the drama presentation; more of a variety show.”
Early sponsors included Senator Shirley Turner, Assemblywoman Verlina Reynolds-Jackson, and Assemblyman Anthony Verrelli. Also, local gospel station WIMG 1300AM helped by giving Wellons free commercial time.
In the midst of organizing the event, Wellons’ 102-year-old grandmother, who was helping putting it together had passed away. Wellons decided to dedicate the show to her memory, honoring her legacy and publicly celebrating her long life.
“These are elders in the community that touched me and encouraged me to move forward in writing plays and acting,” said Wellons.
The one-hour long show was a great success. Assemblywoman Verlina Reynolds-Jackson gave citations to the seniors who were awarded.
Ivery Avery, a retired educator and performing arts advocate from Trenton, who was involved in the screening of the movie Harriet was one of the award recipients. She called “Seniors Play in the Park” refreshing.
“Donna’s recognition of the local trainers was an added touch that made the program even more special,” she said.
Seniors from Donna Wellons’ Water Walkers Group—a group that does water exercises in Hetzler Pool—were also included in the show.
The Water Walkers class is made up of mostly seniors, from their 60s to their 80s. It also includes a 92-year-old woman. The faith-based program sings hymns while working out in the pool. At the end of each session, they have a cookout and fellowship.
Rose Diggs-Bennet, one of the Water Walkers, said, “The program was enjoyable and entertaining. We were not disappointed.”
Marion Parish, a senior poet, was invited to perform. Though she lived in Trenton all her life, she had never been to the Battle of Monument. “The experience was surreal. The coming together of people—young and seniors alike—was breathtaking to say the least.”
Letilla Chapman, a retired schoolteacher raved about the comfortable cushioned seating. And that seniors were invited to take the cushions home with them! She said, “The entertainment songs by the Water Walkers were the highlight of the afternoon. Trenton community individuals displayed their talents with drama, dance, and poetry. The individuals who were experts in fitness strolled the red carpet with pride while the seniors were entertained and encouraged to think about the importance of their choices for self-care. It was a fun-filled afternoon of activities with free sandwiches and beverage choices available. The music provided by the DJ was also enjoyable. The Battle of Monument, which is such a staple in our Trenton history, served as a monumental location for this event!” Wellons plans to continue having the Seniors Play in the Park each year.
