Seabrook Residents Enjoy Dynamic Entertainment on Campus

Live performances, fantastic venues, catered celebrations, and more at senior living campus in Tinton Falls.

Research has shown that retirees place a high value on having the opportunity to enjoy entertainment, whether they're the host or a guest, in the audience or on stage.

At Seabrook, a senior living community developed and managed by Erickson Living, staff has found that more than ever, seniors are enthusiastic about participating in a variety of on-campus entertainment activities, like live performances and lectures on a regular basis, without having to leave campus. They also treasure the ability to host family or friends in their apartments or at other campus venues for entertaining.

Neighbors entertaining neighbors

Seabrook resident Norma Linzalone enjoys entertaining her neighbors, which she's done since 2010 as musical director and accompanist for the Seabrook Performers alongside producer Lindo Meli.

Since 2009, the Performers have produced 21 musical shows—two a year—under Lindo's artistic direction. They utilize one of the community's unique amenities—a professional-quality, 250-seat auditorium—for their rehearsals and performances.

"Everybody looks forward to it, and we normally sell out all three performances for each show," Norma says.

Senior Resident Life Manager Michelle Aguilar says the entire community of 1,400 people anticipate the shows, and the 20 to 30 people who participate in putting them together give their hearts and souls.

"The Performers are a class act, and their neighbors appreciate their hard work and the ability to see such a wonderful show without leaving their home or without having to step outside, really," Aguilar says, referring to the fact that climate controlled walkways connect every building at Seabrook, eliminating the need to go outside in bad weather.

Aguilar says, "These shows are a wonderful tradition here at Seabrook, and just one of many opportunities to create and enjoy entertainment on campus."

Outstanding Entertaining Venues on Campus

Erickson Living managed communities are well-known in the industry for having well-designed venues for entertainment that include quality furnishings.

"The auditorium at Seabrook is used for movies, live music, and performances by outside entertainment as well as our own chorus groups, the Seabrook Performers, and others," says Executive Director Phil Jean. "Residents and those planning to move to the community are enthusiastic about having opportunities to enjoy entertainment just steps from their front door without having to leave campus."

Other designated spaces at Seabrook, like the lounges outside each restaurant, are ideal for smaller events. And the new Great Lawn with amphitheater is the perfect spot for outdoor summer concerts.

Easy entertaining

In addition to larger performances and events, Seabrook residents can continue entertaining their family and friends on a small or large scale. Whether they're planning a community-wide celebration or a small family gathering, they have the opportunity to utilize onsite catering services either in their apartment or in one of Seabrook's many venues—private dining rooms, classrooms, lounges. And they can do it all without lifting a finger. 

This type of community service offering is unique in the senior marketplace and provides ample opportunity to tailor special events to meet the needs of diverse audiences.

"We have many residents who host their guests and utilize our catering services, and they have all given us positive feedback," says Catering Manager Maureen Marchini. "Our catering team can simply providing the linens, tables, or we can cater the entire event. It's a great service."

Seabrook is a not-for-profit organization, developed and managed by Erickson Living®. The community is governed by its own board of directors affiliated with National Senior Campuses, who provide independent financial and operational oversight of the community. 

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About Seabrook: Seabrook, one of 20 continuing care retirement communities developed and managed by Erickson Living®, is situated on a scenic 98-acre campus in Tinton Falls, New Jersey. The not-for-profit community of more than 1,400 residents and 750 employees is governed by its own board of directors, affiliated with National Senior Campuses, who provide independent financial and operational oversight of the community. Additional information about Seabrook can be found at SeabrookCommunity.com.

Photo: The Seabrook Performers produced shows each year on campus. Here, cast members of rehearse World of Cervantes before opening night.  (From left) Bob Gamble, Amelia Raziano, Jerry Vermilye, Assunta Lee, Lindo Meli, and Judy Waters.

Story written by Julia Collins