Chicago Bulls fans are being treated to home-game performances by the “Swingin’ Seniors” dance troupe. The 17 dancers, aged 64-93, all reside at the Village Woods Christian Retirement Community, and most of them attend Illinois Christian Reformed churches, including Sauk Village CRC, Bethel CRC, and Orland Park CRC.
The “Swingin’ Seniors” will fill a 90-second slot during a time-out at six Bulls home games this season. They received a standing ovation from a crowd of 20,000 after their first performance Dec. 5.
Evadney King, a Bulls’ cheerleader, acts as their coach and teaches them a new routine for each game. Lewis Seisert, 93, said, “I’m impressed with the patience of our coach. She works with us with great diligence.”
Retired CRC pastor and Village Woods chaplain Rev. Lugene Bazuin, 79, and his wife, Ellie, are members of the team. He says, “We are doing this to show people that even as we get old, we have a zest for living. Oh, we have a great time, we really do.”
The Bulls organization provides dance shoes and red-and-white shirts that say “Swingin’ Seniors” on the front. They also send a bus to pick up the group for each game.
About the Author
Ruth Moblard DeYoung, a former Banner news correspondent and teacher, writes children's books. She is a member of Hope Christian Reformed Church in Oak Forest, Ill.
