WEST BRANDYWINE, PA — Freedom Village at Brandywine was alive with talent and community spirit as The Village Players, a resident-led theater group, premiered their fifth musical comedy, The Dastardly Doctor Devereaux, on March 7 and 8, 2025. The performances, directed and produced by residents Fran and Maggie Doyle, drew packed audiences and raised $4,400 for local outreach and scholarship programs.
Showcasing the talents of community members, many of whom had never acted before, the two-and-a-half-hour production highlighted the dedication of the cast, whose average age was 82.4. Despite the challenges of memorizing lines and rehearsing extensively, the performers delivered a polished and entertaining show. Friday’s audience included residents and staff across all care levels, while Saturday welcomed friends and family from outside the community.
“We are incredibly proud of and grateful for all residents who participated and dedicated their time to this production,” said Maggie Doyle, co-director and resident. “Seeing everyone come together to create such a memorable experience, while also supporting vital community programs, is truly inspiring.”
The $4,400 raised through the performances will be evenly distributed between the Freedom Village Scholarship Fund, which supports employees pursuing higher education, and the Freedom Village Outreach Fund, a resident-backed initiative aimed at supporting local causes.
Adding to a week of successful community engagement, the resident-run scholarship committee hosted a donut sale fundraiser on March 4, selling over 300 donuts to support their mission. “Our scholarship committee is entirely resident-driven, and we work hard throughout the year to support our dedicated employees,” said Fran Doyle. “The donut sale was a fantastic way to engage the community and raise funds for this important cause.”
Executive Director Danielle Geyer praised the residents’ commitment to giving back. “What makes these events truly remarkable is the residents’ commitment to giving back,” Geyer said. “The Village Players do not charge for tickets, instead accepting donations that directly benefit the Outreach and Scholarship Funds. This unique approach highlights the residents’ passion for both the arts and community service.”
Freedom Village continues to celebrate the efforts of its residents, whose dedication to creativity and philanthropy strengthens the community both within and beyond its campus.
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