For a group of Lower Mainland seniors, being retired doesn’t mean quitting work.
In 2001 they formed an entertainment troupe, known as the Vaudevillians, as a way to have fun.
But they soon felt they needed a more meaningful purpose, so the group decided to raise money to support youth in the performing arts, hoping to keep live theatre alive.
Currently boasting three members from Langley, the Vaudevillians incorporated as a non-profit organization and joined forces with Douglas College to establish a bursary for their performing arts students.
They also worked with the Arts Council of Surrey to establish another scholarship in honour of Fran Dowie, a well-known old time Vaudevillian, who performed with them before his passing.
In 2004, with trepidation, they rented the Surrey Arts Centre.
There was no reason for worry. Two weeks prior to opening they were sold out. This year marks their 10th anniversary at the Surrey Arts Centre.
They have raised over $100,000 to date and 20 students have been presented with bursaries or scholarships.
This year the Vaudevillians will perform Nov. 9 at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Performing alongside them will be eight-year-old Tyson Venegas, who was presented with a scholarship by the Vaudevillians as the winner of the B.C. Junior Talent contest.
All tickets are $20, available at the Surrey Arts Centre box office. Call 604-501-5566
