SENIOR STORY
TELLING
★ What
Senior Storytelling is a free theater and writing program for older adults in Bushwick and Ridgewood. Through storytelling, theater games, movement, writing, and conversation, participants come together to share memories, try new things, and connect with others in a warm and welcoming environment. Classes are held in English and Spanish at local senior centers, and no theater experience is needed. Since 2018, participants have formed friendships and created performances inspired by the stories, experiences, and personalities in the room.
★ Program IN Action
Using theater games, writing prompts, and collaborative exercises, participants shape their lived experiences into shared creative work. The program is accessible to people across mobility levels and culminates in public performances that celebrate our longtime local residents. Throughout the year, participants attend productions at the Starr, and take part in intergenerational workshops based around the show they are seeing.
Senior Storytelling empowers elders to share their voices, preserve oral histories, and build community. The program combats social isolation and fosters intergenerational connection. It creates space for reflection on what it means to experience a changing neighborhood over time.
The program is facilitated by teaching artists Caitlin Ryan O'Connell, Maia Karo, and Danny Tejera, with additional support from guest collaborators and The Bushwick Starr. Its direction comes from the participants themselves, so the work remains responsive to their memories, interests, and collective vision. Senior Storytelling was created by affiliated teaching artists Rachel Kauder Nalebuff and Caitlin Ryan O'Connell in 2018.
Senior Storytelling classes and showings happen throughout the year. A culminating free public performance happens in June at the Starr. This year’s show was on June 10th, 2026 at 5pm.
We welcome your involvement. Support for Senior Storytelling can take many forms, from teaching in the classroom to volunteering during performances. To learn more, email cassandra@thebushwickstarr.org.
Senior Storytelling is made possible through the NYC Department of Cultural Affairs' SU-CASA Program and The NYC Department for the Aging, in partnership with the New York City Council and Councilmembers Jennifer Gutierrez and Sandy Nurse.
"I loved how we worked together and supported each other with positive feedback. My favorite part was how I could express myself as a person and also play characters, like a tree." Barbara, Senior Storytelling Participant
"Everybody had input in the play, and we really expressed what we were feeling in that moment, with what's going on in the world. The play was an expression of how we were all feeling and it was great to share that with others. I got a lot out of this work, and I hope we can invite more people into the club next time." Bill, Senior Storytelling Participant
"Number one is... I'm grateful for all of you, who put it together and listened to our stories. You gave us so much love and affection and attention... to each individual. To show, to feel, to deliver. When I first came into the class, I just listened, and the professionalism of all of you was so captivating and energizing. I said, "oh, there's life here.” Drama Club gave me life. You took our words and you put them all together and you said "This is all you! Everyone is here! And we must enjoy each others' story! And each story is bringing us together!" Anne, Senior Storytelling Participant
