FRANKLIN, Tenn. (October 15, 2025) — The spotlight was shining bright at the historic Franklin Theatre as the 7th Annual Morning Pointe Foundation Seniors Got Talent Franklin brought the house down in front of a sold-out audience. The evening was filled with laughter, standing ovations, and incredible performances that proved talent only gets better with age, while raising a record-breaking nearly $40,000 to support the Foundation’s mission of providing scholarships in nursing, therapy, social work, and culinary arts across the Southeast.
From soulful songs to show-stopping acts, each of the twelve finalists lit up the stage with heart and creativity, leaving the crowd inspired and amazed.
This year’s winners included:
- 1st Place: Lucius Talley, 86 — spoons player who performed “When The Saints Go Marching In.” For Talley, taking home the top prize was a deeply emotional moment. “To me, this is one of the greatest moments of my life — to be 86 years old and have this happen. God showed up tonight. God did it. God shined on me,” he said, after bringing the audience to their feet with his rhythm and energy.
- 2nd Place: Brian Hanson, 69 — singing pianist who brought the energy with “Blue Suede Shoes.” Hanson, a crowd favorite known for performing at Morning Pointe events, shared his gratitude for the evening. “I am thrilled to be a part of this. I do a lot of shows for Morning Pointe — they’re a fabulous organization. Thank you, Morning Pointe Foundation, for putting on such a fabulous show. We so appreciate it.”
- 3rd Place: Randy Spencer, 65, and Cathey Nelson, 63 — musical duo who delivered a powerhouse duet of “Up Where We Belong.” Both were humbled to share the stage with so much talent. “We were here with a lot of unbelievable talent, and we’re quite honored. We didn’t really expect to finish where we did, so we’re happy,” said Spencer, while Nelson added, “This is a very great experience, and I’m glad to see they do a lot for the community.”
- People’s Choice: Gail Valorani, 69 — singer who moved hearts with “You Don’t Even Know Who I Am.” A retired nurse, Valorani said participating was about more than performing. “I did push for people to give to this because I’m a retired registered nurse, and I just believe nursing scholarships are beautiful — that’s why I’m here.”
Even the judges were in awe of the talent on display. Alex Tinker IV, artist, songwriter, and podcast host, shared, “This was my fourth year being a judge here at Seniors Got Talent, and this was without a doubt the most difficult. I don’t know where everyone keeps coming with the talents they’re bringing — but I’m so lucky to be able to do this.”
The evening was more than a show — it was a celebration of purpose. “This event embodies everything Morning Pointe stands for — community, purpose, and the celebration of life at every age,” said Greg A. Vital, co-founder of Morning Pointe Senior Living. “Seeing a packed theatre cheering on seniors who are still sharing their gifts and passions reminds us that aging is not the end of creativity — it’s a continuation of it.”
Miranda Perez, executive director of the Morning Pointe Foundation, agreed, adding, “The Franklin show is always electric — but this year was truly extraordinary. We are so grateful to our talented contestants, generous sponsors, and supportive community who make this possible year after year. Every dollar raised helps us empower the next generation of caregivers who will make a difference in the lives of seniors.”
The Morning Pointe Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Morning Pointe Senior Living, provides scholarships in nursing, therapy, social work, and culinary arts to students at partnering schools across Tennessee, including Columbia State Community College, Motlow State Community College, TCAT–Williamson, TCAT–Hohenwald, TCAT–Murfreesboro, and Lipscomb University.
Special thanks to presenting sponsor MTPS Guardian Pharmacy Services, Diamond sponsor Propel Insurance, the Franklin Theatre, and the many sponsors, judges, and volunteers who made the evening possible — and to the talented seniors whose performances reminded everyone that passion and purpose never retire.
For more information about the Morning Pointe Foundation or to learn how to support its mission, visit morningpointefoundation.com.
