Alive & Kickin

In a world that celebrates youth, seniors are left vulnerable. They are overlooked, unheard, and underestimated. A&K "gives voice to seniors" through personal stories and popular songs. We disrupt stereotypes around aging, bridge generations, improve health and well-being, and provide safe space for isolated, diverse, and underserved older adults to connect with one another, and find joy and new purpose in life through rock and pop music and shared personal stories. Our intergenerational impact is felt across the Twin Cities and greater Minnesota, including our 40-member Senior Rock Ensemble, our all-age audiences, volunteers, collaborative partners and music program participants.

OUR STORY

Founded in 2010 by choreographer/director Michael Matthew Ferrell (1960-2021) we are celebrating our 15th Season as a performing arts, lifelong learning, and human service nonprofit. We reach 5000+ Minnesotans of all backgrounds, identities, incomes, and abilities annually. Located in the Minneapolis Public Housing Authority operated Cora McCorvey Center for Health and Wellness, we offer several low cost and free programs:

OUR PROGRAMS

Our 40-member Seniors Rock Ensemble ages 62-90, gather weekly to rehearse, learn music and vocal technique, and socialize.

20+ annual Community Concerts are performed for audiences of all ages in assisted/senior living, schools, parks, and other public and private venues. Our high-energy, charismatic group lifts spirits, inspires, and defies ageism as they sing multi genre music from across the decades.

An Annual Show, a "rock concert" theatrical production brings audiences of all ages together for a powerful performance of music and the stories of our members. Low-income community members are invited to join us for a free performance and transportation for our Neighbors Night Out event.

SingOUT!, a FREE monthly sing & dance along is a joyous respite for caregivers and people with all abilities and the highlight of the month for many. 

New in 2025... 'Seniors Rock' Music Education workshops and classes invite older adults to engage in community and lifelong learning. Learn to sight-sing, care for the aging voice, write a song and more!

OUR IMPACT

Our programs bring joy, reduce isolation, stimulate memory and keep everyone moving and inspired to live with purpose.

91% of our members report improved mental and emotional health benefits and 77% feel better physically.  From lowered blood pressure to the magic of a social support network to help them through a critical illness. 

91% have learned new skills and found renewed purpose.

HOW YOU CAN HELP

Your donations directly support our programming and mission to "give voice to seniors"

We also welcome your help as volunteers, in-kind donations of products and services (e.g. printing, accounting, postage, technology, web and graphic design)

Do you have a corporate or employee appreciation, fundraiser, or other event and want our ensemble to rock the room? We are available year-round!

Join our board of directors to share your expertise and passion. Contact us to learn more.