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Regional Theater Companies Doing Bold Work
Trivia: Which European capital stands on the Tiber River?
RetireHub
October 22, 2025
Rise and shine, RetireHub community! ☀️ Your Wednesday newsletter is here!
Today we’re sharing fun tips on Regional Theater Companies Doing Bold Work, along with the best deals, fun trivia, and more!
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What We’re Reading
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 | By: Pamela Grandstaff Wealthy socialite Blythe Buffington returns to Cozy Mountain to escape her unhappy marriage, only to find herself harassed by family, pressured by home buyers, and potentially broke. Her longtime friends Emma, Abby, and Georgie urge her to move back permanently—but before she decides, Blythe vanishes under suspicious circumstances. As spring unfolds, the charming town of Cozy Mountain reveals sinister secrets lurking behind its grand façades. |
Dear Joanne
Your questions, her wisdom — Joanne’s here with thoughtful advice, warm humor, and a listening ear for whatever’s on your mind.
Regrets, I’ve had a few
But then again, too few to mention.
I did what I had to do
And saw it through without exemption.
I planned each charted course
Each careful step along the byway.
And more, much more than this
I did it my way.
Hello, Friends! I’m sure everyone remembers singing those words over and over from a song made famous by the Chairman of the Board himself, Frank Sinatra. I bet you cannot even read that last sentence without smiling.
Today I am going to bring us back to simpler times, and back to the songs we all loved. There is a special kind of magic in the songs of old. Really, they were not just songs to us. They ended up being our life in music. We would listen to them from the radio in our kitchen, or a jukebox in the corner of our favorite diner. Three songs for a quarter? The sound may have been crackly, but the tunes carried warmth and honesty.
Each song told a story. Most songs were about the loves we had or lost, some songs of family and some of hope. The lyrics were simple. You could learn them easily and sing them loudly. You could dance to them with your girlfriends, or dance to them in the arms of your partner. Long drives with the family were made joyous by singing our favorite tunes out loud. Laughter inevitably followed.
There is something hauntingly beautiful about the songs of the 1960’s. Similar to an old photograph, memories instantly fill our minds when that first set of chords ring out. You can hear the sincerity of the voice as the words belt out. There may be little imperfections in their voices, making the well-known singer human to us, like he was singing right in our own living room. Each lyric meant something.
Today’s songs move people differently. They vibe with energy having similar beats and digital tones. They capture a world that moves much faster than it did in our youth, with this new generation mostly living online and moving fast all the time. Anyone with a voice can now be heard around the world!
But when an old song slips through on the radio, for us it suddenly fills a room. Something inside us pauses slightly. For a few moments, everything fades. We remember a time when music was less about hitting the charts and more about being felt.
Maybe one of the differences is not the sound itself, but the silence that used to be between the notes – giving us time to think, reflect and maybe cry a little. In the rush of today’s lifestyles, listening to the songs of the past sometimes is just what we need.
Every song had lyrics you could understand and a beat your body could move to. Today’s songs live in a different rhythm. Technology is good in so many ways, but it certainly has reshaped the music industry. Not to say it is better or worse, just different.
Yet, despite the decades between our music and today’s music, both eras have one thing in common – the ability to connect people. Whether it is a vinyl album (or 45 RPM) spinning in your bedroom as a teenager or a playlist streaming through your earbuds, music still finds its way to the heart. The sound of the music may have changed but the feeling remains the same.
We have such a tremendous opportunity to have music available to us much more easily through various satellite radio channels. Songs from the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s are just a push button away.
I am a singer at heart. Let’s be clear – I am a singer without a good voice. You can ask anyone that knows me. But I sing out loud every chance I get. It makes me happy.
What are your favorite songs of the past? What memories do you have of them? Email me at [email protected] with your memories, experiences and suggestions.
Have a great week!
Joanne
How did you like this week's column? |
On this day in 1962, John F. Kennedy announced to the nation that “unmistakable evidence” confirmed the presence of Soviet nuclear‑missile sites in Cuba and declared a naval “quarantine” of the island—an escalation that brought the world to the brink during the Cuban Missile Crisis. The announcement marked one of the most tense moments of the Cold War, forcing a standoff between the United States and the Soviet Union that lasted several harrowing days. Ultimately, the confrontation ended peacefully—but only after both sides made significant concessions, highlighting the power of diplomacy when global stakes run high.
Regional Theater Companies Doing Bold Work
Celebrating the brave heart of local stages, one curtain call at a time.
Across the country, regional theater companies are proving that you don’t have to be on Broadway to make bold, imaginative, and meaningful art. These local institutions—often rooted in smaller cities or towns—are embracing their freedom from commercial pressures to produce daring new plays, reimagine classics in unexpected ways, and champion voices that have long gone unheard.
What sets regional theaters apart is their close connection to their communities. Without the high ticket prices or tourist-driven expectations of big-city venues, these companies can afford to take chances. They’re staging stories that reflect the lives and complexities of their local audiences—whether it’s a bilingual drama in the Southwest, a bluegrass musical in Appalachia, or a political satire in the Midwest.
One notable trend is the rise in original works. Many regional theaters are now incubators for new playwrights, offering workshops, staged readings, and full productions of world premieres. Some of today’s biggest hits—like The Wolves and Sweat—started in regional houses before gaining national attention. Others may never transfer to larger markets but still create lasting impact by speaking directly to the heart of a community.
These theaters also lead in accessibility and inclusion. From sensory-friendly performances to pay-what-you-can nights, they’re actively working to dismantle the barriers that often prevent people from experiencing live theater. At the same time, they’re giving opportunities to directors, designers, and performers from diverse backgrounds, enriching the cultural landscape for all.
For older adults, especially, regional theater offers something special: connection. Attending a local play can be a social event, a way to support the arts, and an invitation to engage with new ideas. Whether it’s a gripping drama, a comedic gem, or a musical that gets your toes tapping, these performances can spark conversation, nostalgia, and inspiration.
So the next time you hear about a local production, consider grabbing a ticket. You might just witness something unforgettable—right in your own backyard.
Yesterday’s Poll Results: What kind of digital playlist would you create first?
When it comes to crafting the perfect digital playlist, nostalgia reigns supreme. A strong 64% of respondents said they’d reach for a throwback mix from their favorite decade first—proving that classic tunes still hit all the right notes. Meanwhile, 14% are building energy with upbeat tracks for walking or workouts, and smaller groups are tuning in for calm mornings, reflective moments, and kitchen jams. Whether you’re rewinding the clock or discovering something new, it’s clear that music continues to be a powerful mood-setter at every stage of life.
TOP COMMENTS
“I have several and add to them frequently. Some examples, Pep Up list, Summer Drive list, a Tai Chi list, Walking list and a Sunday morning list”
“I haven't been interested in digital. I have a large collection of CD's and vinyl albums; I'll stick with those. I can make my own CD's, I've done that.”
“I have a full variety of playlists: Walking, Christmas, Women Artists, Male Artists, Vacation Music, Walking with Purpose (religious), Picnic Tunes, Romantic Stuff, Musicals, Halloween. And, yes, many crossover from one to another. ”
“I look for a healing in music. Christian music helps me.”
“I like late 50s, 60s, 70s and early 80s rock and pop music as well as soft jazz.”
Sitting Less, Moving More: The Unexpected Link to Lower Back Relief
If you find your lower back aching more often, especially in your 50s or beyond, the culprit might simply be too much sitting. As we age, it’s common to spend increased amounts of time seated—whether reading, working, relaxing, or watching TV—and this extended stillness can create tight muscles, weakened glutes and hamstrings, and uncomfortable pressure in the lumbar region.
Sitting in one position for long stretches puts your hips and knees at 90‑degree angles, compressing muscle fibers and contributing to back stiffness and pain. The problem isn’t just posture—it’s lack of movement. Experts emphasize that being still for hours behind a desk or on the sofa allows muscles to shut down and joints to tighten, creating a cycle of discomfort and fatigue.
The solution isn’t tricking your body into perfect posture forever—it’s giving it variety and movement. Set a timer every 20 to 30 minutes to stand, stretch, or walk briefly. Adjust your sitting setup by alternating between chairs and even using a stool or exercise ball to shift your seating dynamics. Simple calf stretches, hip‑openers, and wall “cactus arms” can also help restore mobility and ease tension.
Stronger glutes and active hamstrings are your back’s allies, not afterthoughts. Add gentle squats with elevated heels or try light resistance bands to gradually re‑engage those often overlooked muscles. And don’t forget upper‑body mobility: stand against a wall and gradually reach to bring elbows, wrists, and fingers to the surface—without lifting your ribs— to release shoulder and spine tension.
Above all, movement is your friend. The next time you sit, remember: the best position is the next one. Transitioning often—from chair to standing, alternating supports, shifting seats—does more for your spine than hours of perfect posture. By giving your body a little variety, a few stretches, and regular reminders to move, you’re easing pressure, reactivating dormant muscles, and investing in a more comfortable, mobile tomorrow.
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Slang Phrase of the Day
Phrase: Daylight drip
Meaning: “Daylight drip” is a playful, modern slang phrase that refers to someone’s stylish or put-together look during the daytime. "Drip" is a trendy term for fashion or personal flair, and "daylight" emphasizes that the outfit or vibe is tailored for casual daytime confidence—think effortless charm, sunglasses, and a little extra polish for errands, brunch, or a walk in the park.
In a sentence: "Eleanor may be retired, but when she showed up to book club in her denim jacket, bold necklace, and sunhat, Doris whispered, “Look at that daylight drip—she’s the trendsetter of the group!”
Good News of the Day
Shooting Stars Under a Moonless October Sky
Tonight offers a once‑in‑a‑year experience: the peak of the Orionid Meteor Shower. With the moon nearly absent from view, conditions are ideal for sky‑watchers across the country. Expect anywhere from 10 to 20 meteors per hour streaking across the night sky, many leaving bright, lingering trails.
This annual meteor shower occurs as Earth travels through the debris stream left behind by Halley’s Comet. The particles enter Earth’s atmosphere at incredible speed, creating the “shooting star” effect. For the best view, find a dark, open space away from city lights, look east or northeast toward the constellation Orion (near its belt), and give your eyes 20–30 minutes to adjust to the darkness.
The timing couldn’t be more perfect this year. The new‐moon phase means no moonlight to wash out the display, and if skies are clear, the sight promises to be memorable. Whether you’re curled up with a blanket and hot drink or stepping outside for a moment of wonder, now’s the time to look up. Remember: the best position for witnessing the meteor shower isn’t fixed—it’s wherever you can relax, look skyward, and enjoy the show.
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RetireHub Trivia
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Which European capital stands on the Tiber River? |
Who played Archie Bunker on All in the Family? |
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