Broadway is alive and kicking at the Aloha Acres senior citizens’ mobile estates in Modena. For the past six years, Fran Pomeroy, a retired teacher from Rockland County and a theatrical director, has been producing shows for the Aloha Players, with all the benefits — upwards of $1,500 — going to the community’s emergency service neighbors: the Modena Fire Department and Rescue Squad volunteers.
Pomeroy is 79 years old — going on 30! Her enthusiasm is infectious, and has invigorated a cast of people this past spring in their sold-out show titled Bits of Broadway, which included singing, dancing and acting that incorporated classic Broadway numbers from South Pacific, Guys and Dolls and Carousel to West Side Story and beyond. These performances were sold out, and brought semi-professional shows to locals for a bargain and a good cause.
Pomeroy always loved theater and helped direct many productions in her years as a remedial reading and math teacher in Rockland County. But when she and her husband retired and moved to Aloha Acres, she felt the desire to get back into the swing of things. So she helped to invigorate a group of talented people, both within Aloha Acres and throughout the community, to put together shows that were “affordable and professional. These are not just a bunch of seniors belting out tunes; these are seriously talented people of all ages, who rehearse all year long and produce a show that is spectacular!”
Fran Pomeroy is the New Paltz Times “Meet & Greet” subject of the week.
Occupation:
Retired teacher, theater director and yoga teacher.
Where are you from originally?
The Bronx, but spent the majority of my life in Rockland County, NY.
What do you like about New Paltz?
It’s a rural, friendly community. We get to know so many people, and we have a horse farm across the street. It’s so different than Rockland County! People are so welcoming and kind, and willing to showcase their incredible talents in our annual show. Their talent humbles me.
What do you like about the community?
Everyone knows each other. It’s much more intimate. I’ve gotten to know so many people through our productions and my yoga teaching at the Town Hall [at the New Paltz Community Center].
Join the family! 
