Shakespeare’s Birthplace is a nationally-treasured building that’s stood in Stratford for centuries. But it’s a fair bet it has never played host to anything like this before.
Residents from a retirement community chose the building as the backdrop for an impromptu flash mob. And it proves that age really is just a number.
Dancing to ‘Stayin’ Alive’ by the Bee Gees, the flash mob turned heads. The stunt, performed to mark National Fitness Day, served as a joyful reminder that your later years can be your best.
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The dancers were all from Inspired Villages’ Great Alne retirement community near Alcester, and aged from 55 to 87. Many were watched by their grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Pat Tilling, aged 87, is celebrating 65 years of marriage to her husband Arnold, a former Armed Forces musician. She was joined in the dance by Shirley Symmonds, 86.
Deana Bowkett, aged 78, said participating in a flash mob was a dream come true as she finally had the opportunity to tick it off her bucket list. And Sue Wakenshaw, aged 76, brought decades of fitness expertise to the flash mob.
With over 45 years of experience as a fitness instructor, she’s seen the positive impact of an active lifestyle first-hand. Great Alne Park’s wellbeing navigator, Tania Skerrit, the creative force behind the flash mob, used to attend Sue’s fitness classes, bringing their journey full circle.
Tania said: “Behind the scenes, everyone has dedicated months to perfecting their dance routine. Their commitment and willingness to embrace new challenges were nothing short of inspiring. The result was a heart-warming performance on National Fitness Day, demonstrating the power of staying active, enjoying life, and embracing new adventures, regardless of age!”
Adam Hall, Village Manager at Great Alne Park, said: “The residents at Great Alne Park never cease to amaze me with their appetite for keeping fit and supporting good causes. It was great to see so many residents and leisure club members finally show off the flash mob dance they’ve worked so hard to perfect. I am incredibly proud to be a part of this exceptional community, and I look forward to many more inspiring moments like this in the future.”
Jamie Bunce, CEO of Inspired Villages, added: “It’s amazing to see so many residents boldly challenge the norms of retirement living and it’s moments like these that highlight exactly what Inspired Villages is all about. Our villages empower residents to live the later years of their lives to the fullest and it’s wonderful to see residents of Great Alne Park celebrate National Fitness Day. The Flash mob was truly inspiring, and it really goes to show age is just a number!”
Managed by Iater living operator, Inspired Villages, Great Alne Park is situated on 80 acres of Warwickshire parkland and boasts a range of impressive facilities, including a swimming pool and wellness centre, as well as a brasserie, games room, library and in-house cinema.
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