Today we’d like to introduce you to Marty Ruíz.
In the 1990’s, While Marty was thriving as a visual artist and note card designer, he also longed to share his ability to sing for others. So he began volunteering at senior communities and at charity benefits. This quickly evolved into Marty’s favorite spare time activity, music. After several years of enjoying the dual rewards of art and music, Marty’s art career began to dwindle.
Later, Marty was astonished to learn that his musical volunteership was actually a paid profession for other entertainers. It wasn’t until he was asked to be booked a year in advance by an activity director at a senior living community that Marty saw a great opportunity to be of service to many people. He would also make a living at something that mattered on a deeper level. This was more than art, more than service. This was a musical ministry. This was how “Musical party with Marty” was created.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Because I already have my “foot in the door” with dozens of Activity directors throughout the Dallas area, my struggles were few. The one challenge that does face ALL people in my profession are the dreaded budget cuts! A simple phone call from a director to an entertainer explaining that their census is low and they need to cut back on musical entertainment can be a devastating experience, especially if you’re hired on a monthly basis and they cancel you for an entire year.
Fortunately, DFW metroplex now boasts over 450 senior communities with many new facilities currently being built in Allen, Plano and Frisco. There is no shortage of senior communities. One only has to do the legwork and research to find work opportunities.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Marty Ruíz – what should we know?
I believe that the key to continued success in my profession is being adaptive and to provide a variety of programs with familiar music and stories that inform, inspire and entertain. Also, I frequently perform with other entertainers to provide group shows. At first, Finding these people was a challenge. But Whenever my schedule allowed, I’d visit a particular community and introduce myself to the entertainers I really enjoyed watching and ask for their cards. This practice also provided me with an extensive list of quality entertainers that I freely share with others.
There are many good entertainers who are kind people… However, when performing for seniors, there is a specific quality required of being present, flexible and mindful of where your audience is mentally. Because we work with independent seniors, assisted living, rehab, and Alzheimer’s/dementia patients, we must discern how we present ourselves to each group. Connecting with our audiences at their level is our primary goal.
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
Caring. My work gives my life purpose… and that means everything.
Contact Info:
- Phone: 214-683-6404
- Email: martyruiz@aol.com
- Facebook: Marty Ruíz entertainment
Image Credit:
Michelle Priest, Paul Anderson, Rhonda Medina, Anne Hinson, Steve Summers, Evelyn Jones, Cherie Watson, Mimi H., Andy Corridori
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