Mary’s Woods Senior Living Jazz Dance Team Wins First Place at Showstopper Competition
Lake Oswego, OR, March 27, 2025
Residents of Mary’s Woods, a senior living community, showcased their talents off-campus at the end of March as the Mary’s Woods Jazz Dance Team performed at the Showstopper competition at the Portland Expo Center, one of the nation’s premier dance events. They performed their Bob Fosse-style jazz dance to “Mein Herr” from the iconic musical Cabaret, snagging the win in the 70+ Small Group Musical Theater category.
This marked their debut at an off-campus competition and their first win. The team, led by Jen Filson, the Fitness Supervisor at Mary’s Woods, is made up of six residents aged 73-85. The group, which was formed three years ago, began with informal dance classes and has since evolved into a committed and enthusiastic team that has performed at numerous Mary’s Woods events. Stepping into the competitive arena was a bold new venture for the group, and the team was excited.
We get together with or without Jen to go over the routine, which really speaks to our camaraderie.”
The Jazz Dance Team’s performance was more than just a competition; it was a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and the joy of movement at any age. The team’s journey reflected not only their commitment to dance but also their strong sense of community and mutual support. Member Nancy Leavens said, “It feels like we just won the Olympics.” The team and their coach were beyond thrilled at the reception of their performance and their win, they are excited to improve even further for next year’s competition.
For questions about Mary’s Woods Jazz Dance Team, please contact Wellness Manager Jen Filson, jfilson@maryswoods.org.
For more information about Mary’s Woods, Lake Oswego’s only non-profit Continuing Care Retirement Community, please contact Colette Rees, Chief Marketing and Communications Officer, crees@maryswoods.org.
About Mary’s Woods
Mary’s Woods is a non-profit Continuing Care Retirement Community situated on 40 historic acres in Lake Oswego, Oregon. Mary’s Woods is missioned to provide individuals with a continuum of housing, health, and educational services that ensure the dignity, well-being, independence, and security of older persons. Consisting of Independent and Assisted Living options, and Residential Care and Memory Care with 24/7 nursing staff, Mary’s Woods is home to more than 700 residents who are supported by an exceptional team of 400 staff members.