‘Twas a joyous occasion on a wintry afternoon that brought Hearts Ever Young (H.E.Y.), a local theatrical troupe, to The Lincoln Home in Newcastle to celebrate the spirit of this holiday season. On Dec. 18 many cast members joined dear friends and acquaintances in a sing-along with Sean Fleming, the musical director of the troupe. 

Also, with selections of Christmas songs, all present were treated to the brother and sister combo of David Fields on banjo, and Carolee Withee on guitar performing a beautiful rendition of, “The Maine Christmas Song.” Sally Kinney shared, “Music on Christmas Morning,” a short poem by Anne Bronte that sets the perfect atmosphere for a loving and intimate celebration of Christmas. Val Gorrill read the famous 1897 letter, “Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus,” and John Harris spoke about his childhood memory of preparing for the arrival of Old Saint Nick, then recited the original, “Twas  the Night Before Christmas.”

Wendy Wood, Charlie Kettell, and Marie Kaplowitz also entertained with timeless Christmas poems. Sean Fleming delighted everyone with his brilliant style and enthusiastic playing of, “Reindeer Rag,” written in 1915 by Joseph Lamb. The Lincoln Home staff thanked the residents and H.E.Y. members after the sing-along with delicious cookies and punch, as all chatted and wished each other Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.