Phoebe Berks Residents Take the Stage in First-Ever Talent Show

Written by Alan Raisman & Dominic Trabosci; photos by Alan Raisman.

The Phoebe Berks community in Wernersville, Pa. — part of Phoebe Ministries based in Allentown, Pa. — was in awe after watching residents and staff perform in the first-ever Phoebe Berks Talent Show. Thirteen acts performed everything from piano to dance to spoken word.

Organized by the Phoebe Sport and Recreation Group (a group comprised exclusively of residents), the talent show was the idea of Phoebe Berks resident Philomena Huesgen and her daughter. Huesgen enjoys watching her granddaughter perform, but it was Huesgen’s daughter who suggested she perform for her granddaughter for a change. Thus, the talent show was born, allowing residents to show off their skills to their families in a formal setting.

Ten residents and three staff took to the stage March 7 and 8, 2025, with residents and family members packing the community room. As promised, Huesgen’s daughter and granddaughter came to watch her perform. Every year, Phoebe residents enjoy the talents of Theresa Eaman and Philomena Huesgen, who play piano and tap dance in the Spring Concert and Grand Illumination. Eaman and Huesgen learned a new song and performed beautifully for the audience on both days of the talent show.

The show helped residents discover the hidden talents of their peers. Dick Miller, regularly part of the Phoebe Tappers, performed a skit called “The Hand.” Mike Long played piano, while Bruce Jones played drums. Judy Zettlemoyer spoke about her plethora of fabric-based creations. George Biechler, Anna Bickhart, and Marie Elinsky performed a spoken word piece. Elinsky also performed an Arabic dance. The talent show was hosted by resident Greg Boyer, who told jokes and anecdotes in between performances.

Staff also partook in the event. Alicea Rodig, a receptionist at Phoebe Berks, danced a four-count hustle as well as a cha-cha with her husband. Marlene Maguire, community life coordinator for Phoebe Berks, danced the pasillo, a Panamanian dance. Leah Knox, the regional director for pastoral care and education for Phoebe Ministries, performed two songs on the guitar.

Guests were amazed at the talent on display. Phoebe Berks looks forward to seeing what other residents showcase their talent next year.