The Boston Minstrels, through a two-hour long interactive “songfest”, provide a musical foundation for connection and hope.

Instrumentalists include guitars, sax, drums and a sound system.

With the Minstrels’ focus on engaging the audience, the form of a Minstrel appearance must be fluid, open to spontaneity and improvisation from the audience. Engaging the audience actively in the music is critical to each appearance. The creation of this musical bridge between troupe members and the audience, and between members of the audience with one another, has proven musically therapeutic for guests, residents, and troupe members. For an evening, all become friends together in music. Barriers are broken down and new possibilities for change are imagined. Tensions are eased. Lives are changed. Hope fosters.