The Marianist Brothers and students of nearby Kellenberg Memorial and Chaminade High Schools hosted the annual Junior-Senior Prom the evening of February 2, giving once again a wonderful party for the Residents. The theme of this year’s prom was “Walt Disney.” The brothers and students decorated the auditorium with white lights, a profusion of red, black and white balloons (the colors of Mickey and Minnie Mouse) and cut-outs of various Disney characters decorated the stage. The Residents spent the afternoon getting ready for the dance, with the help of the Little Sisters and volunteers. Some Residents opted for “elegant casual” while others wore beautiful gowns. The Residents, joined by several Residents from our home in Totowa, had an early supper and then rushed back to their rooms for last minute finishing touches to their makeup and/or evening attire before the students arrived.
Following tradition, one or two students were paired with each Resident. The students came up to the floors to meet their Resident and then bring him or her down to the auditorium. Along the way each Resident received a corsage with a red, black and white polka-dot ribbon and then posed with their “dates” for their official prom photo, complete with stuffed animals of Mickey and Minnie. In the auditorium the hired band was already playing and singing lively party favorites, mostly “golden oldies.” The Residents, even the most infirm, came alive when they heard the music! The dance floor was filled with students dancing with the Residents, some gracefully on foot and others in their wheelchairs. Residents with two dates danced with both of them at the same time! When the Residents needed a rest, they sat at tables and were served refreshments before returning to the dance floor. The young men and women were so attentive to the Residents, talking with them and dancing with them throughout the evening. Mickey and Minnie Mouse themselves eventually arrived to give their greetings and everyone received their own pair of Mickey Mouse ears. After the last dance, the students accompanied the Residents back upstairs to their rooms. The thoughtfulness of the Brothers and young people, down to the smallest details, made for a memorable evening for both old and young.
Click here to view a photo slideshow from this event.
Annual Junior-Senior Prom Night