Age is simply a state of mind for Oklahoma performers

Colee and an acquaintance rounded up some other performing friends and came up with the idea. Nearly all of them had given solo performances at retirement homes and other venues, but they decided to start performing as a team.

They’re hosting open auditions Nov. 30. Colee, who plays the role of the opera diva, is always recruiting — everyone from a baton twirler to a yodeler.

Colee already has had six requests for performances. The ultimate goal, she said, is to have a large-scale show next year and donate ticket revenue to senior services.

The cabaret is a chance for older Oklahomans to reconnect to their creative side, encouraging the audience to pick up a long-forgotten instrument or start singing again.

At 74, Colee knows the importance of enjoying life, regardless of age. She volunteers, teaches vocal lessons, does yoga and attends Spanish lessons twice a week. She doesn’t take any medicine and doesn’t plan to slow down. Some seniors see gray hair and wrinkles as a stop sign.

"You don’t have to buy into that,” Colee said.