Surprises aplenty at the Minoru Residence talent show

The recent Minoru Residence Cultural Talent Show saw both residents and staff perform for an appreciative audience of friends, family and colleagues.

Some enjoyed the experience so much that they didn’t want it to end.  Take, for instance, Mr. Shen Kun Yaw, 90. A Minoru resident for two years, Shen typically keeps to himself, preferring to play his harmonic for visiting family or friends in the privacy of his own room.

During last week’s talent show, however, Shen came out of his shell to the delight of all. “For 80 years I have this harmonica,” said Yaw from his wheelchair, enjoying the spotlight at centre stage. “So happy to play today.”

And with that, the usually reserved Shen launched into a multi-song set that closed with Auld Lang Syne.

“He just doesn’t want to stop,” commented daughter Emily Shen, smiling at her dad’s performance. “It’s not how he usually is.”

Co-ordinated by Minoru Residence’s Recreation and Music Therapy teams, the hour-long show, held on Feb. 24, was deemed a huge success.

“It emphasized and celebrated the rich cultural community of Minoru Residence,” said Genevieve Andrews, a member of the recreation therapy team.  “It was also a way to bring staff and residents together with a focus on shared experience and joy.”