THEATRE ROYAL GLASGOW TO HOLD DEMENTIA FRIENDLY PERFORMANCE OF STILL ALICE
THURSDAY 15 NOVEMBER, 2.30PM
Theatre Royal, Glasgow is to hold a Dementia Friendly performance of Still Alice next month as part of the venue’s ongoing commitment to providing an accessible theatre environment.
Still Alice, which is based on the novel of the same name by Lisa Genova, runs at the city centre venue from Tuesday 13 to Saturday 17 November with the Dementia Friendly performance taking place on Thursday 15 November at 2.30pm.
Still Alice tells the story of Alice Howland, stubborn, clever and driven – a professional at the top of her game. But, diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s at the age of 50, she is compelled to confront her new reality and draw on her resilience to remain independent for as long as possible.
Starring Sharon Small with a ‘spellbinding’ performance as Alice, this tender and touching play is a unique insight into the experience of a woman fighting to maintain her identity as her world changes.
Industry publication The Stage described Still Alice as, ‘a moving production that manages to find the positivity at the centre of an otherwise devastating illness.’
The Dementia Friendly performance is carefully tailored for people living with dementia as well as their families and carers so everyone can enjoy this wonderful production in an environment that is comfortable and supportive.
The house lights will be partially left up throughout the performance and quiet break-out rooms will be available before, during and after the performance. Specially informed theatre staff will also be on hand during the show to answer any questions people may have. There will also be an Alzheimer Scotland information stand available during each screening.
A bucket collection will be taken throughout the week in support of Alzheimer Scotland.
Familiarisation visits are available should anyone wish to undertake one of these prior to attending the performance.
This Dementia Friendly staging follows successful Dementia Friendly showcases of Scottish Opera productions at Theatre Royal, Relaxed Performances of pantomime at Theatre Royal’s sister venue, the King’s Theatre alongside several Captioned and BSL aided shows every year across both theatres.
James Haworth, Theatre Director at Theatre Royal, said: “Working with the producers of Still Alice and Alzheimer Scotland to bring a Dementia Friendly performance of this poignant play to Theatre Royal has been extremely rewarding.
“Alzheimer Scotland have been a tremendous support to our staff, ensuring we as a venue understand how to assist those living with the illness when they visit our theatres. I do hope our patrons will consider leaving a donation for this fantastic organisation during their visit to see Still Alice.”
Sarah Burgess, Head of Localities from Alzheimer Scotland, said: “We are thrilled to be working alongside the Theatre Royal Glasgow to create a dementia friendly performance of Still Alice.
“Knowing that the theatre is aware of what dementia is and how staff can support people can really help those living with the illness become less isolated and more engaged with the arts. This is another crucial step towards building a Dementia Friendly Scotland, where nobody should face dementia alone.”
For any questions you may have about the performance or any specific additional requirements, please our dedicated Access Booking Line on Freephone 0800 912 6971.
FACT BOX
Dementia is the biggest health and social care challenge faced by society today.
There are around 90,000 people living with dementia in Scotland and it is now estimated that 20,000 people will be diagnosed with the condition every year by 2020.
If you have any questions about dementia, or the support available in your area, call Alzheimer Scotland’s 24 Hour Dementia Helpline on 0808 808 3000.
Alzheimer Scotland is Scotland’s leading dementia organisation, providing care, activities, support, information and advice to people with dementia, their carers and their families. The charity aims to improve public policies relating to dementia and be a voice for the estimated 90,000 people in Scotland currently living with dementia. For further information on Alzheimer Scotland visit www.alzscot.org.
5 things about dementia
Dementia is not a natural part of ageing
Dementia is caused by diseases of the brain
Dementia is not just about losing your memory
It’s possible to live well with dementia
There’s more to the person than their dementia
To read more about the 5 Things about Dementia download the leaflet from www.alzscot.org/5_things