Leisureworld Idol unifies home around love of music Show reveals 'amazing' musical gifts of staff, residents   Thursday July 15, 2010 -- Michelle Strutzenberger It was a time of soul connection as people shared their musical gifts at a recent talent show aptly named Leisureworld Idol, which took place at Leisureworld Caregiving Centre Lawrence. One resident, dressed in his suit and tie, provided a majestic and emotional rendition of “O Canada,” with fellow residents standing in solemn, patriotic attention. A group of managers added a bit of feistiness to the event by singing “Great Balls of Fire,” while staff from different departments wove in an uplifting spiritual element with some gospel tunes. Several volunteers also performed at the June 30 event. “It was really an activity that united everyone,” says program manager Marianne Klein Benay. The brainchild of activation staff member Agnes Asubonteng, the show differed from the competition, Canadian Idol, after which it is loosely patterned, in that everyone was a winner. All performers received a medal, just for overcoming their fears and presenting to a large and rather daunting audience. In addition to bringing the home together and demonstrating that it’s possible to have fun in long-term care, the show provided an opportunity to showcase the many different gifts within the home. Staff members, who are known for certain allotted roles, amazed people with their musical strengths. “You don’t often see that because they’re working with residents, they’re busy, and you don’t necessarily know that this person can really sing until you hear them, and they’re just phenomenal,” says Klein Benay, noting there are both staff and residents in the home who have “some amazing talent.” Another benefit of the show was the inspiration it provided for residents to work towards something. “It gave them something to work on leading up towards the day of the actual activity. They were working on (their performance), they were practising.” A second annual event, Leisureworld Idol will definitely be taking place again at the home, Klein Benay adds. If you have feedback on this article please contact michelle(at)axiomnews.ca, or call the newsroom at 800-294-0051, ext. 27.