Image by emmablackbird via Flickr
Carnival in Brazil and Mardi Gras in New Orleans will culminate on Tuesday, March 8, 2011 – Fat Tuesday. Here are some ideas for use with older adults which I will be incorporating in my Sterling House sessions. This year the Brookdale’s focus is on Brazil – a culture rather foreign to many seniors in north-western Kansas.
When I think Brazilian music, sambas and bossa novas come to mind. Songs that come to mind with actual or perceived ties to Brazil the participants may recognize include:
- Girl from Ipanema
- My Hat It Has Three Corners
- Rio de Janeiro Blues (Randy Crawford)
When I think Carnival I think of bright colors and dancing. What I know about it comes from television & movies. I found a ten minute informative video on YouTube which may help you in planning the feel & festive nature.
In thinking how to bring this festive flavor to my sharing, I will use the Cha cha as presented in Kat Fulton’s Drumify. I am also thinking we’ll do a movement activity with scarves and streamers. As Mardi Gras is a more familiar to the groups, I’ll use a little “Oh When the Saints” “Little Liza Jane”, “On the Bayou” and “Tiger Rag”.
As this a plan in progress, I would love to hear your thoughts & suggestions for celebrating Carnival with older adults.