Acting out loud

Members of the Readers' Theatre Group of Villa Park are having the time of their lives.

"We are having fun, and the people we are entertaining are having fun," said Rudolf Kraus, 71, a member of Villa Park Recreation's newly organized group. "I feel like I belong."

Kraus said he doesn't have a theatrical background, but claimed six years ago his college archaeology teacher branded him "well read," and that he is.

His love of words, along with his resounding voice, make this group a perfect fit for his outlet, which doesn't require members to memorize. Instead, they read their scripts, thus the name Readers' Theatre.

The social aspect of this group is attractive to him, as well. Although Kraus and his wife of nearly 41 years, Terry, have two children and two grandchildren to keep them busy, he is a very social being and certainly enjoys the opportunity to perform.

"The fact that we are going to entertain senior citizens is a good thing," said Kraus, who was one of the group members who performed for the DuPage County Convalescent Center residents in October. And plans are in the works for future performances at schools and for other groups.

The Readers' Theatre Group was suggested by Villa Park resident Joe Schrantz, 78. As a member of the Lombard Beacon Hill Retirement Home Readers' Theatre Group, Schrantz thought it would be fun to start a group in his hometown. So he began the group Sept. 17.

Since then, the group has met from 3 to 4 p.m. Mondays at Villa Park Recreation's Community Center, 320 E. Wildwood Ave.

Schrantz also leads the Laughing Club, which meets from 10 to 10:30 a.m. Fridays at the same place. During their 20-minute gatherings, members do laugh exercises that produce feel-good endorphins. Both groups are offered at no charge.

"I want everyone to have fun," Schrantz said.

He is having a great time, too, organizing and participating in the two groups. In addition to his membership with the Readers' Theatre Group and Laugh Club at Beacon Hill, Schrantz's past experiences include membership in the St. Alexander's choir in Villa Park and the Villa Park Library's theater group.

But he says everyone of any ability is welcome to participate in the Readers' Theatre.

Audrey Walker, the newest member, joined the Readers' Theatre at the suggestion of a College of DuPage co-worker. Although Walker resides in Burr Ridge, a bit of a distance from Villa Park, she decided to give the group a try.

"I can't wait to see how this goes," Walker said.

She was sold on the concept after her first performance at the DuPage Convalescent Center.

"I think this is a wonderful thing," Walker said. "Sometimes you don't have time to memorize a script."

She knows this first-hand from her involvement with Grace Church in Hinsdale, where for many years she has written, directed and produced the church's Easter and Christmas programs.

Another member, Mary Tomaso, 63, of Villa Park found that, as a group member, she is learning to project her voice. For years Tomaso has been involved as an extra in the Villa Park Library's theater group. But, perhaps with her Readers' Theatre Group experience, she may someday land an actual part in the library's annual Murder Mystery Play fundraiser.

In the meantime, she enjoys the company of seven other group members.

"We have fun," she said.

For details about joining the Readers' Theatre or Laugh Club, visit www.vprd.org or call Villa Park Recreation at (630) 834-8970 or (630) 834-8975.