Seniors shine in the spotlight

Jackson Bell

While the rest of the country is catching the glitter of the

swinging ‘20s by watching the big-screen version of the musical

“Chicago,” Burbank seniors celebrated the razzle-dazzle of that era

Tuesday at the Senior Superstar Showcase, “The Roaring ‘20s.”

“I think it is great that the seniors citizens of Burbank can be

in a show like this,” Burbank resident Darleen Grande said of the

show at the Joslyn Adult Center. “And the whole thing was very

entertaining.”

More than 300 seniors -- some who experienced the 1920s firsthand

-- congregated for the showcase, which featured 13 musical acts

ranging from karaoke solos to ensemble tap numbers, to raise funds

for the Burbank Temporary Aid Center. Guests donated cans of peanut

butter and tuna or $2.

BTAC, however, was not the only benefactor.

“I think it is good because a lot of seniors come out for the show

who ordinarily wouldn’t mingle otherwise,” Burbank resident Phyllis

Jones said. “We all get to meet other people.”

From singing to tap, the 90-minute show featured songs by host and

artistic director Marie Burnett and her co-host, Byron Crossley.

Choreographer Kendall Capps led the female tap troupe Gingersnaps in

the song, “Chicago.” There was even some intermingled comedy as

entertainer Ormly Gumfudgin, clad in a tuxedo coat and jeans with a

feathered top hat, performed “Aura Lee” on his “bazooka,” much to the

delight of the audience.

“The Army bazooka launches rockets and my bazooka launches

racket,” he joked onstage about his instrument. “They’re both

demoralizing.”

After closing with a sing-along, the center treated the audience

members to punch, cookies and some mingling with the performers.