Performance at Bethesda

In July 2019 we decided to put on a performance with a group of CA participants, working also with a Mindsong musician. It took place in the Sanctuary of Bethesda Church. We invited an audience to come and watch, and it ended up being a truly magical afternoon. 

Lisa had individual conversations with all of the participants. Soon it became a clear that a common theme was emerging: nearly everyone had been a keen walker in their lives and several had walked very long distances. So the performance focused on walking, going on a journey, together as a group. It was a devised piece, which grew completely out of the individuals from the group.  

We had planned to do another performance in 2020, but then Covid-19 intervened.

Here are some of the written responses from the audience that day:

“Absolutely wonderful performance. The artists have managed to draw out such talent.”

“A truly moving piece of art – I’m quite emotional after watching this. The value of this work is almost immeasurable. See people living with dementia ‘performing’ equally was just inspirational. Thank you for opening my eyes.”

“I loved it. It felt as if the participants’ stories and contributions were beautifully curated and valued. The seamless mix of art forms was inspirational. CA values people, makes participants’ contributions drive the work, gives participants dignity and agency. Brilliant. As a practitioner I am going to steal all of these ideas.”

“Very impressed. I am so grateful for having been invited. It sparked lots of memories in me. It is obvious that CA has given people the chance to meet new friends, to have fun, to remember and to show what they can do. Thank you.”

“Beautiful! It was so moving. Tears running down my face for most of it! It was profound, genuine and enriching for the audience. It made me think about the significant things in my memory. Can I recite poetry? I don’t think so! CA seems to connect people with one another and with themselves – to find their humanity in the midst of living with dementia. The emphasis on laughter and friendship in the clips from the participants was clear evidence of this. It was so thoughtfully put together – an absolute joy to be here. “

“What a fantastic afternoon. Whilst the world looks increasingly messy, it is so good to sit in a room with others who are just being human with each other.“