Bold truth: a long-standing mentor in Amherst is being recognized for decades of service, and her story connects the worlds of performance art and community care. This rewritten piece preserves the original meaning while presenting it in fresh language, with emphasis on clarity and accessibility for beginners.
A former Radio City Rockette was honored this Tuesday in Amherst for her many years of dedicated service to the Amherst Center for Senior Services.
Jean Widlicka, who also goes by the nickname “Mean Jean” due to her direct teaching style, was acknowledged for her more-than-25-year tenure at the center. Widlicka, now 87 years old, previously danced with the Radio City Rockettes in the 1960s. She shared a memorable anecdote about one of her early dance partners: the award-winning actor Morgan Freeman. According to Widlicka, Freeman initially resisted the idea of pursuing acting, insisting he would not become an actor. Despite doubts from others, Freeman eventually achieved that goal, a success Widlicka finds remarkable and inspiring.
The Rockettes marked a historic milestone last month, celebrating their 100th anniversary.
Mark Ludwiczak joined the News 4 team in 2024 and brings two decades of journalistic experience in Buffalo. Follow him at @marklud12 on X.
