Grand Theatre Announces Plans To Present Dementia Friendly Performance

As part of Dementia Action Week 2018, Wolverhampton Grand Theatre has today announced plans to begin the process of creating a Dementia Friendly performance for 2019.

Last year the theatre returned to producing with a critically acclaimed production of Brassed Off and follows this year with Amanda Whittington's LADIES' DAY. Although the 2019 production is yet to be announced preparations will be taken to make a performance of it Dementia Friendly. This week the Access Team will be making a visit to another theatre to watch a Dementia Friendly performance, to gain an insight into the process.

As part of Dementia Action Week the theatre played host to a Dementia Friends session this afternoon in the main auditorium that had over 200 attendees. The event was also covered by BBC WM with a two-hour live broadcast from the theatre.

The session was led by Michelle Monnes Thomas, a solicitor for FBC Manby Bowdler and Lee Allen from The Alzheimer's Society.

Over the last twelve months Michelle has come into the theatre to train customer facing staff members to become Dementia Friends.

This process has enabled staff to have a clearer understanding and confidence to serve any patron with dementia to the highest possible standard.

Michelle said, "I am absolutely delighted that the Grand Theatre is going to explore the possibility of a Dementia Friendly performance. It will provide the users with a safe environment and an enjoyable experience to enrich their lives"

Adrian Jackson CEO and Artistic Director also commented, "Community is a strong pillar on the Grand Theatre's strategy and our mission statement is "Reaching More People Through The Magic of Theatre". Patrons with Dementia are part of our community and we want to provide them with the magic of theatre."