"Broadminded Women Over 40 Revue”
The Magic Bag
Ferndale, Mich.
April 18
Performers have a tough job, especially women over 40 facing ageism and sexism in an industry that prioritizes female youth. "Broadminded Women Over 40 Revue” sought to challenge that notion with a variety show that featured acts solely by women over 40. The high-energy evening featured performers from age 40-81 with acts that spanned music, comedy, circus, roller skating, and a range of dance with a humorous through-line about overcoming age stereotypes and embracing the realities of aging.
The show had a sports arena theme. Hosts Kari Revolva – also the founder – and Kate Peckham encouraged the audience to cheer as if they were at their favorite sports game. They even created a “hot flash” wave with us waving our hands at ourselves to cool down. They praised each performer, proudly sharing her age and accolades before her entrance.
Some acts were athletic, others playful. Many incorporated an element of burlesque – demonstrating women can be sexy at any age.
Most inspiring to me was 63-year-old pole dancer Shelly Elle, who opened the show. Elle blew us all away with her extreme flexibility and upper body strength with spins, hangs, splits and aerial moves. Her artistry, however, is what made her act pop. Donning a hat, sunglasses and suit ensemble, Elle sauntered on stage for a sultry burlesque-style performance that ended with her in a sexy bra and underwear set and in complete command of the stage.
Helen Pontani, 52, had one of the most entertaining acts of the evening with a flirty, ruby slippered-tap number and a get-up that featured a full, hoop-skirted gown, Marie Antoinette-style wig, and sparkles everywhere. Sandy Eggers – who topped the age range at 81 – charmed the audience with an energetic, 1920s-style dance routine. Revolva, 50, gave a playful and impressive hula hoop act with her spinning up to four hoops at once, sometimes upside down.
As a 41-year-old former dancer who recently re-entered the community theater scene, I can personally attest to the challenges and insecurities of aging as a performer. It was a rude awakening to discover that – despite the muscle memory – my body didn’t move the way it used to. Suffering both a back and ankle injury within the last six months made me even more worried that getting back into shape was hopeless.
But watching these performers – especially Elle – changed my perspective of what may be possible. I don’t see myself becoming an elite pole dancer any time soon, but I am more motivated to push my physical strength and flexibility limits – if not just for health reasons.
"Broadminded Women Over 40 Revue” was a testament that women can be free, fun and fabulous over 40.
