11-year-old Pavilion volunteer brings joy to seniors

How often do you hear 11-year-old children today state that one of their goals in life is to bring joy to residents of senior living facilities? Well, let me introduce you to Shira Schoenberg, who recently entertained the residents at Allegro in Winter Park with a medley of love songs to help celebrate Valentine's Day and as she has said many times, "bring a smile to everyone's face."

Shira is the daughter of Lora and Erik Schoenberg and she has been passionate about the performing arts since the age of 2. She takes lessons in ballet, tap, jazz, piano and singing. Shira has a long list of roles she has played: Lago in Aladdin Jr., Willy Wonka in Willy Wonka Kids, Small Alice in Alice in Wonderland Jr., Jane Banks in Mary Poppins Jr., Annie in Annie Kids, and others.

Shira has always held a special place in her heart for seniors. She was inspired to perform for senior living centers when she used to perform for her grandfather, "Pa" Kenneth Schoenberg, and it would give him and other bed-ridden residents nachas. Shira is dedicated to creating uplifting performances that seniors can appreciate and plans to continue making the rounds to area residences to spread her joy of brightening up the day for others.

To schedule a show visit shirlove.wixsite.com/home

- Susan Bernstein, program director