Posted by Sudbury Northern Life Reporter Judi Koski
Canadian seniors will be honoured in a one-hour CTV special broadcast of Chartwell's Senior Star singing competition telecast Saturday, Jan. 17 at noon.
"Canadian seniors embraced this competition, and 600 seniors
sang and played for more than 10,000 appreciative fans. The
competitions became one enormous celebration of talent from St.
John's to Victoria," said Steve Suske, CEO of Chartwell's
Seniors Housing REIT.
 
The contest is held across Canada in Chartwell residences,
Seniors Centres and theatres. It is open to Canadian residents
aged 65 and over.
Contestants do not have to be living in a Chartwell residence. Last year marked the second annual "Senior Star" singing and musical instrument competition.
From the winners of the 72 local competitions, 10 finalists were chosen by a celebrity panel of judges to compete in the National Final, which was held at the famed Royal York Imperial Room on Sept. 15, 2008.
"The talent of the 10 finalists was beyond my wildest expectations. Watching them perform at the finals was equal parts awe-inspiring and heart-warming," said Suske.
"Chartwell's goal in creating Senior Star was to honour and celebrate seniors. Having been a judge at both the regional competition and the national final, I can honestly say that goal was accomplished," remarked Dan Clancy, lead singer for legendary Canadian rock band Lighthouse, in a release.
Those who wish to become contestants for the 2009 regional competitions may pick up a registration form at their local Chartwell Seniors Housing location, or visit www.chartwellreit.ca to find out more information.
