Story by Darl DeVault, contributing editor
The 2026 Oklahoma Senior Follies production of annual Ziegfeld-style variety shows by and for seniors gained momentum during its fundraising season for Alzheimer’s with its Kickoff Luncheon, held on March 19 at the Petroleum Club downtown. Follies’ organizers shared this year’s vision, introduced their performers, and highlighted how supporters’ generosity directly supports Alzheimer’s care, research, and local programs for families across Oklahoma.
This event, featuring fashion, food, and music, served as a key fundraiser for the non-profit’s operations and charitable goals. It also highlighted the 2026 Walk to End Alzheimer’s in Oklahoma, a series of their signature statewide events, with a colorful booth.
Since Bobbie Burbridge Lane introduced a unique idea to present an annual Ziegfeld-inspired variety show featuring senior performers in 2010, it has been a significant supporter of the Alzheimer’s Association Oklahoma Chapter through annual fundraising and high-profile benefit performances.
The Follies in 2025 donated its proceeds of $15,000 to the association. They have already raised the same amount at the Luncheon on March 19th.
“In March, we had a Restaurant Pull, where you pay $20 a choice for a gift card on the gift tree, and those cards are worth $25 to $100, which we sold out in 30 minutes,” event marketing director Rosinna Gies said. “We also had a half a dozen raffle items that people purchased to win special prizes. One was an autographed jersey by superstar Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of the Oklahoma Thunder, which Byron Foley won! We will also have a Restaurant Pull at each performance, so get your tickets and get to the performance early because the cards go fast.”
“The core of our fundraising efforts concludes with the Oklahoma Senior Follies performances in early June at the UCO Mitchell Hall Theater, offering two shows,” said Follies Board Chairman Jackie Short. “By attending or donating, the community can feel connected to a collective effort that brings hope, laughter, and awareness to those in need.”
The Oklahoma chapter says more than 70,500 people are living with Alzheimer’s in Oklahoma, while 108,000 caregivers dedicate 189 million hours of unpaid care year-round. The national organization reveals 7 million Americans are living with the disease.
The performances will be at 7 p.m. Saturday, June 6, and 2 p.m. Sunday, June 7, at UCO Mitchell Hall Theatre, 100 University Drive, in Edmond. Funds raised help the Alzheimer’s Association provide education, caregiver resources, advocacy, and critical research toward a cure.
By featuring prominent local and national talent—such as Edgar Cruz and guest performers like Vince Gill—through video over the years, the Follies leverages its platform to raise public awareness of Alzheimer’s research and care.
The funds raised by the Follies contribute to several critical initiatives managed by the Oklahoma chapter. This includes the 24/7 800.272.3900 Helpline, local support groups, and educational resources for families. The support extends to contributions toward global research efforts aimed at treatment, prevention, and an ultimate cure.
Performances typically feature “Follies Beauties,” singers, dancers, and comedians, all aged 50 and older. Under the direction of Gina Bramlett, Michael Pone and Matthew Jones, Ph.D., the shows include senior “Follies Beauties” in choreographed numbers and live musical accompaniment.
“The level of expertise our directors and production staff bring to the show is truly remarkable,” Gies said. “Their seasoned leadership, creative vision, and technical precision create a strong foundation that allows every person to shine.”
Meanwhile, the Association advocates support for legislative efforts in Oklahoma to improve dementia care policies and increase state-level research funding. The Follies’ efforts align with recent statewide initiatives to address Alzheimer’s, including the March approval of a bill by the Oklahoma Senate to improve the coordination of Alzheimer’s services.
Proposed legislation aims to create a dedicated office within the State Department of Health to assist patients and their unpaid caregivers. All this is to help with the 152.8 % increase in Alzheimer’s deaths from 2000 to 2022.
Tickets are now available at the new Oklahoma Senior Follies website, OKSeniorFollies.org. Reserve your seats early to secure your spot at this popular event and avoid missing out on this memorable experience. For more details on how to attend or support, visit the website or contact the organizers directly.
