Creative Aging: From Inspiration to Implementation
As part of UNGA Healing Arts Week, this program situates New York City within a growing global movement that recognizes arts participation as a vital resource for health, wellbeing, and social inclusion in later life.
The program begins with a screening of the Oscar-nominated documentary VIVA VERDI!, directed by Yvonne Russo and produced by Christine La Monte. The film offers an intimate glimpse into the lives of celebrated opera singers and musicians living out their “third act” while mentoring international music students at Casa Verdi.
A panel featuring leaders in aging, accessibility, healthcare, and the arts will examine how creative engagement is being integrated into local communities and public health initiatives to promote health, connection, lifelong learning, and age-friendly societies.
The day concludes with optional hands-on workshops to support organizations in developing arts and culture strategies for an aging population, strengthening arts-based facilitation, and experiencing movement and music practices that foster vitality, purpose, and belonging.
Speakers
- Miranda Hoffner — Director of Accessibility, Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts
- Dr. Lisa Scott McKenzie — New York City Commissioner of Aging, NYC Aging
- John-Morgan Bush — Dean, Juilliard Extension
- Dominic Campbell — Cultural Producer and Co-founder, Creative Aging International
- Shoshi Keisari — Faculty Member and Researcher on Arts, Play, and Aging, NYU Drama Therapy
- Dr. Jeremy Ader — Neurointensivist, Bellevue Hospital Center
- Christine La Monte — Producer of VIVA VERDI!; Founder and President, La Monte Productions