NYC Aging presents “Talent is Timeless” 2024 grand finale

The NYC Department for the Aging, with Mayor Eric Adams, hosted the second annual Talent is Timeless Grand Finale at the United Palace Theater, where over 1,000 attendees enjoyed a night of music, comedy, and dance performed by New Yorkers aged 60 and older. The event, aimed at combating ageism, showcased the diverse talents of the city’s older residents, reinforcing the message that creativity knows no age limit.

“New York City has always been a place that attracts the most talented people in the world, and today, older New Yorkers have once again shown they are a vital part of our talent pool,” said Mayor Adams. “Getting to see *Talent is Timeless* bring together older residents and allowing them to perform at a level many of them may never have imagined was truly inspiring and shows that talent does not run out with time – it only gets better.”

The event followed months of competition in which over 1,000 participants performed at older adult centers citywide. Talent is Timeless culminated in the grand finale, with 22 acts, including performances by Rosemarie Hameed, David Husney, and Joshua Popenoe, who emerged as this year’s winners.

Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Anne Williams-Isom praised the initiative, calling it “a remarkable demonstration of what makes New York City’s older adults so wonderful,” while NYC Aging Commissioner Lorraine Cortés-Vázquez added, “The acts we saw today prove that talent is, in fact, ageless.”

Emceed by comedian Jackie Hoffman, the event featured a panel of judges, including dancer Lillian Colon and actress Lillias White, who celebrated the performers for their skill and passion. Sponsors, including Montefiore Einstein and Ponce Bank, echoed the importance of spotlighting older adults’ contributions to the cultural fabric of the city.

As this annual event grows, it continues to break down barriers and challenge stereotypes, reminding New Yorkers of all ages that talent truly is timeless.