Our Program on Tuesday, April 2nd was Alive & Kickin’ with Jeff Nelson and members of the staff, board and performers. Alive & Kickin’ was Founded in 2010 by Michael Matthew Ferrell, Alive & Kickin’ is the Twin Cities’ premier senior rock ensemble. It began its journey as a touring vocal ensemble of seniors who rock. The rock ensemble is comprised of seniors ages 60-99+. Now, a full decade later, Alive & Kickin’ has grown to redefine what it means to grow older. Alive & Kickin’ supports and serves our senior population through the craft of music, empowerment of self-expression and the belief that you’re never too old to pursue your passion.
The enthusiastic ensemble has been performing to sold-out crowds at the Bloomington Center for the Arts for several years and tours around the upper midwest to a myriad of venues from the Minnesota State Fair to senior-living communities. This year’s cast has 35 seniors ranging for ages 60 to 89 years old and they are busy with their Annual Performance of Music from the 70’s as well as 15 to 20 community outreach events.
Alive & Kickin’ gives voice to seniors through personal stories and popular songs, empowering its members to entertain and enlighten multi-generational audiences. The highly inspirational group of spirited and charismatic seniors spread their musical message as they explore contemporary genres of music ranging from rock & roll and pop to gospel and Motown.
The organization gets its funding from ticket sales, corporate and group sponsorships and donations. The annual budget is $394,000 and they are currently working on a shortfall as Covid caused lots of cancellations and funding issues. One of their many events includes performing at State Fair each year on Seniors Day.