Theatre Severn to host first dementia-friendly performance
Theatre Severn in Shrewsbury will host a first dementia-friendly performance next week, when the smash-hit West End and Broadway musical Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story visits the venue as part of a major UK tour.
Following on from Dementia Action Week (this week, until Sunday 21 May) Shropshire Council’s Theatre Severn is inviting people living with dementia, their families, and carers to experience a performance in a more relaxed environment on Thursday 25 May 2023 at 2.30pm.
Specially adjusted for audiences who are less comfortable with any elements of the usual theatre experience, audience members will be able to move around freely, leave and enter the auditorium as needed, with the lights on low and sound effects softened.
Robert Macey, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for culture and digital, said:-
“This will be a very special performance. It is well documented that music often helps people with dementia forma connection with their memories.
“I sincerely hope the unique performance will be enjoyed by the whole audience.”
Seen by over 22 million people worldwide, the award-winning show tells Buddy Holly’s story, from his Texas rockabilly beginnings to international stardom, featuring all of his greatest hits, including That’ll Be The Day, Oh Boy, Rave On, La Bamba, Johnny B Goode, Raining In My Heart, Shout and many more.
“Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story” at Theatre Severn. L-to-R Joe Butcher Christopher Chandler Miguel Angel Josh Haberfield. Photo: Hamish Gill f8creates_
Alan Janes, Buddy writer and producer, said:-
“We are delighted to be hosting our first dementia-friendly performance at Theatre Severn. We hope our audience members enjoy these special relaxed performances during our UK tour. Our cast of hugely talented actors and musicians bring the joy of Buddy Holly’s music to our audience members of all ages, so everyone can experience the pleasure of live music and theatre.”
Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story opens at Theatre Severn on Tuesday 23 May 2023, with performances daily until Saturday 27 May 2023. Tickets are available online at theatresevern.co.uk, by calling 01743 281281, and from the box office.
