​Ann’s Choice Couple Brings Love Letters to Campus

On February 9 and 10, just in time for Valentine’s Day, Jean and Bill Brenner performed “Love Letters” at Ann’s Choice, an Erickson Living retirement community in Warminster, Pennsylvania. In spite of the play's opening on the same weekend as the Olympics began, more than 300 people attended three performances, including some outside guests.

The sweet, entertaining short play is about two older people who have known each other since they were children and have written various letters to one another. They read those letters, recapturing their memories and romance, and sharing their experiences with the audience.

The Brenners, who have been happily married for 56 years, decided to bring the A.R. Gurney play to Ann’s Choice after they moved to campus in September 2017. In August, they received a wonderful response to their sold-out performance of “Love Letters” at Town & Country Players Theatre.

Their beautiful performance at Ann's Choice Performing Arts Center was well-received by the audience.

“Many people asked when we will do another play,” said Jean. “Two others told me they came back to see it a second time and cried at the end a second time!”

The couple met in summer theatre in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, 57 years ago. They have been active in Bucks County theatre since 1968 when they both worked at Bucks County Playhouse. Bill was the general manager and an actor, and Jean worked in public relations and more. Subsequently, Jean taught English and Theatre at William Tennent High School, and Bill was the chairperson of Media and Performing Arts at Bucks County Community College. Later, they opened their own real estate company in Richboro. Now, Bill acts in local theatre productions and Jean directs for Town & Country Player, the Langhorne Players, and writes theatre reviews for The Bucks County Herald. Both have also become re-involved at Bucks County Playhouse. In addition, they are both very active on campus at Ann’s Choice where Bill takes art classes and Jean is a member of the diversity group.

Before each performance, Ann's Choice resident Gertrude Solkov played 30 minutes of love songs to the delight of the audience.

Ann’s Choice residents volunteered behind the scenes. Al Burger handled lighting and sound with the assistance of Gary Weisser. Beverly Dieter acted as stage manager, Maggie Farley introduced the program, and Marty Sonnet arranged for volunteers to collect money at the door.

Proceeds from ticket sales, after royalties are paid to the publishing company, will benefit the Ann’s Choice Benevolent Care Fund, which provides support to residents who, despite careful planning, outlive their financial resources.

“Bill and I are so happy to have performed the play for Ann's Choice, to have met delightful new people and to have made some money for the benevolent fund. We intend to keep being involved in the theatre program,” said Jean.

Theatre is one of 150 resident-run clubs and activities at Ann’s Choice. Other activities include arts and crafts, cultural, educational, games, music, social, travel, volunteering, fitness, and more.

About Ann’s Choice: Ann’s Choice, one of 19 continuing care retirement communities managed by Erickson Living®, is situated on a scenic 103-acre campus in Warminster, Pennsylvania. The community is located in Bucks County and is home to nearly 2,000 residents. Additional information about Ann’s Choice can be found at AnnsChoice.com.