Boomer Troupe Gives ‘Gift of Friendship’
When life shifts — new chapters, uncertain moments, unexpected turns — one thing has the power to steady us: friendship. It’s the laughter that shows up in hard seasons, the encouragement that reminds us we are not alone, and the quiet support that fills the spaces where words fall short.
That spirit comes to life later this month as Humboldt Light Opera Company’s (HLOC) Boomer Troupe presents an encore performance of “The Gift of Friendship.” Boomer Troupe co-founders, artistic director Carol Ryder and Tracey Barnes Priestley, longtime advocate for creative aging and host of PBS KEET’s “What’s on Your Bucket List?,” have built an innovative process rooted in authenticity. Drawing from cast reflections inspired by prompts on the show’s theme, their work transforms real-life experiences and insights into a script woven with conversational dialogue, song and shared meaning.
Since its founding in 2017, the Boomer Troupe has produced six shows and grown into a creative family whose members are navigating their own life chapters while sharing stories that speak across generations. For this company of older performers, each production is more than a show — it’s a celebration of saying “yes!” to new beginnings.
Many participants join the troupe in times of transition — retirement, shifting roles, or simply a desire to explore something new. Early rehearsals may feel tentative, but as confidence grows, so does a renewed sense of possibility. Cast members speak of the satisfaction of learning new skills, speaking up, singing out and discovering what they are capable of at this stage in life.
The experience provides them with structure, community and a creative outlet that turns change into opportunity — a reminder that any transition can spark growth, connection and a renewed sense of personal voice.
The theme of friendship clearly resonated when the show first ran last spring, highlighting how supportive relationships can guide us through periods of change. In revisiting these themes, the show is a chance to celebrate once again the strength of human connection in a world that can sometimes feel uncertain.
Supported by Cal Poly Humboldt, OLLI, the Alzheimer’s Association and Life Plan Humboldt, “The Gift of Friendship” offers laughter, music and heartfelt storytelling — a warm reminder that creativity thrives at every age and that friendship remains one of life’s most reliable companions.
Performances are at the Eureka Women’s Club on Saturday, Jan. 17, at 7 p.m. and Sunday, Jan. 18, at 2 p.m. Tickets are $15 in advance at hloc.org or $20 at the door.
Join the Boomer Troupe for “The Gift of Friendship” and see how taking part in something new, something different, can shape the next chapter of your life.
Tracey Barnes-Priestley is a writer, retired therapist and life coach in Bayside.
