This summer, Healthy West Orange and Vibrant launched a multi-generational community choir, directed by local legend Dr. Jeffery Redding.
On September 25th, Creative Connections Choir took to the stage for a free showcase concert featuring music from The Beatles and The Beach Boys. Ahead of the performance, the Orange Observer highlighted the six-week program, including how participants built new skills, friendships and relationships through music. Choir member Deb Cwynar Miller and director Dr. Jeffery Redding spoke about what makes the program welcoming to adults of all experience levels.
The Creative Connections Choir is one of several arts initiatives we’ve launched this year. Vibrant’s Technique Tuesday is a bi-monthly art class where our members paint, draw, make jewelry, and use pen, ink, charcoal, and Japanese fabric arts to nurture creativity and self-expression.
Vibrant artwork on display at Vibrant Artistry, an Exhibit hosted by the SOBO Gallery in Winter Garden
Additionally, Vibrant has launched an improv troupe in partnership with Theatre South Playhouse in Dr. Phillips: an opportunity for fun, games and play at any age.
Vibrant Improv Class at Theatre South Playhouse in Dr. Phillips Florida
Healthy West Orange and Vibrant’s investment in community arts represents a new frontier in health and responds to research indicating that frequent arts engagement is associated with a 31% lower risk of mortality among those aged 50+.(1).
1. Story, K. M., Yang, Z., & Bravata, D. M. (2021). Public Health, 196, 211–216.