Create Your Story at the Cummings Centre

Through a camera lens, a reflective painting or theatre improvisation, every act of self-expression tells a story. Having spent decades building careers, raising families and helping aging parents, many of us have lost sight of our own personal journey and the myriad of experiences that have brought us to this point in our lives. Taking some well-deserved time for personal exploration has many benefits bringing back old memories, discovering hidden talents, learning new skills and connecting with others. Morrie Glick, recently retired, always enjoyed taking pictures as a creative outlet but never had the chance to develop his skills further. Now in retirement, he is learning all about the world of digital photography, “With the small class sizes and excellent instructors at the Cummings Centre, I am able to improve my technique and take wonderful candid shots of my grandson!” Documentary photo instructor, Joe Pascale challenges his students to develop a story through a series of photos studying topics that are of interest to them, “There is always a story behind every image,” points out Pascale, “Photos are a unique way of conveying a message and building a story that means something to you.” Theatre instructor Jaqueline Van de Geer sees her students evolving and growing through her classes. Participants build upon their life experiences expressing themselves through various improvisational exercises. The classes are all about sharing emotions and life stories with each student finding his own unique way to share with others through storytelling, “Everyone’s voice is important and my goal is to give everyone a voice.” Class member Howard Lewis continues to take theatre classes while working a four-day week, “Acting out many improv scenarios has definitely taken me out of my comfort zone forcing me to challenge myself. I draw on my life experiences sprinkled with my own personality to act out different scenarios with a group of extremely supportive fellow students. Going through this process gives me confidence in so many facets of my life.” Suzu Enns, director of the Rock ‘n Soul Choir invites choir members to discover new ways to share their stories through the language of music. Creating an environment bringing together members from different backgrounds and varying levels of experience singing in choirs, participants explore and celebrate their own unique voices. Long-time choir member Norm Spatz reflects on the spirit of camaraderie and true community spirit of the choir, “You don’t need to have a good voice or read music to share a bond with everyone singing our favourites from the 60’s, 70’s and 80’s bringing back so many memories!” The Cumming Centre’s mission is to empower and enhance the quality of life of adults age 50 and over by providing dynamic and innovative programs, social services and volunteer opportunities in a vibrant, respectful, inclusive and compassionate environment. Look through your own lens and join us at the main campus on Westbury in the city’s west end and satellite locations in Westmount, the West Island, Ville St. Laurent, Chomedey and various locations throughout Montreal. To get your free Spring Guide call 514.343.3510 or find us online at www.cummingscentre.org.