Entertainers offer extra 7:30 a.m. first Friday shows at Fairview

A partnership between Fairview Red Wing Health Services and the Sheldon Theatre recognizes the importance of the arts in the healing process and in healthy living.

Sheldon at Fairview - Arts for Your Health is a new series of performances that will be offered on the first Friday of each month at 7:30 a.m. in the medical center’s Garden View Café. Mu Daiko will present the inaugural event Friday.

The performances are available at no charge to staff, patients, families and the public. Guests will be able to purchase breakfast at the cafeteria during the presentations.

Mu Daiko, a daiko drum trio based in the Twin Cities, performs regularly with organizations such as the St. Paul Chamber Orchestra, the Minnesota Chorale and other musical organizations across the country. They also will perform at the Sheldon at 7 p.m. Oct. 3.

“The arts, and especially music, have an important role in healing and over all health,” said Jan Graner, vice president for business and community development.

“Starting the day with inspiring music provides a supporting environment for our staff and gives our patients a positive diversion during what may be a stressful time. Fairview Red Wing Health Services is committed to providing care to the whole person, body, mind and spirit. Our partnership with the Sheldon helps us to continue to deliver on that promise.”

The first Friday performances will run from 7:30 to 8:20 a.m. This year’s schedule will continue with two concerts - Tom Erickson, playing piano and accordion, on Nov. 6; and the Red Wing High School Ovation choir on Dec. 4.

“The Sheldon Theatre and Fairview Red Wing are taking the first steps toward integrating the arts into the environment of health care,” said Sean Dowse, executive director at The Sheldon.

“Within this environment, the performing artist can directly engage audiences with immediacy, intimacy and personal relevancy. The performing arts have a valuable role to play in the mission of health care. The collaboration between the Sheldon and Fairview Red Wing begins the journey toward discovering and defining this role.”

The performance schedule for 2010 will be announced later in the fall.

Tags: arts and entertainment, health, lifestyle, taiko, fairview