In a sun-drenched room on the Motion Picture and Television Fund's campus in Woodland Hills, a group of entertainment industry veterans gather each week to share tales of their storied pasts. The Grey Quill Society, a memoir writing group, is more than just a place for storytelling; it's a sanctuary where members find purpose and camaraderie in the twilight of their careers.
Melody Sherwood, an 81-year-old former executive assistant to Lew Wasserman at Universal, stands out with her tales of Hollywood's golden era. Her stories often feature icons like Cary Grant, and she doesn't shy away from the occasional spicy anecdote. Sherwood's friendship with Grant is a testament to the rich experiences shared within the group. She recounts how Grant would regale her with stories, and she'd listen intently, a habit that has served her well in the Grey Quill Society.
The group, founded in 2013 as a four-week memoir writing class, has evolved into a permanent fixture under the guidance of Victoria Bullock, a 40-year-old writer and producer. Bullock took over the reins from Peter Dunne in 2019 and has nurtured an environment where members feel seen and heard. The Quills' meetings are a blend of writers' room, support group, and stand-up comedy, attracting a diverse membership ranging from 65 to 95 years old.
A Community of Shared Experiences
The Motion Picture and Television Fund, conceived by silent film star Mary Pickford in 1921, provides a haven for aging entertainment professionals. The campus, once described by Hedda Hopper as a "fabulous country club," offers a range of housing options and activities designed to keep residents engaged and creative. The Grey Quill Society is a prime example of this ethos, where members find solace in sharing their stories with others who understand the highs and lows of a life in show business.
"It's such a unique group of people because we have all spent our lives in the industry," Sherwood notes. "Here you can tell your stories and people understand because they have their own stories too."
Therapeutic Storytelling
Under Dunne's initial guidance, the group learned to distinguish between autobiography and memoir, focusing on pivotal moments rather than chronological events. This approach has been therapeutic for many, allowing them to confront past experiences in a safe and supportive environment. Bob Beitcher, CEO of MPTF, often attends meetings and has witnessed the transformative power of storytelling firsthand. "It was very therapeutic and amazing to see such a safe space where people could tell those stories," he reflects.
Creativity Knows No Age
For members like Jodie Mann, 76, and David Quick, 74, the Grey Quill Society is a lifeline to their creative past. Mann finds it essential for maintaining her creative drive, while Quick discovered a new passion for writing. "I didn’t come here thinking I was a writer. I found out I am," Quick says, highlighting the group's ability to unlock hidden talents.
J. Rickley Dumm, a veteran writer and producer, initially hesitated to write about himself but soon found solace in sharing personal stories. His stutter, once a source of insecurity, became a topic of reflection and healing through his writing.
Honoring Memories
As the group navigates the realities of aging, the subject of mortality occasionally surfaces. When a member passes, the Grey Quill Society holds its own rituals, celebrating their life and legacy through shared memories and readings of their work. Bullock notes that while death is a difficult topic, the group acknowledges that MPTF is often the last chapter for many. Yet, they find solace in the belief that the most interesting stories can emerge in these final years.
As Beitcher observes, "They say you never die until the last person who knew you dies. I think they are extending their lives in some meaningful ways." The Grey Quill Society is a testament to the enduring power of storytelling, where legends of Hollywood continue to weave their tales, ensuring their memories live on.
Source:
Deborah Netburn, Los Angeles Times https://www.latimes.com/lifestyle/story/2025-02-10/grey-quill-society-motion-picture-television-fund-retirement-home-seniors-creativity