Today marks the start of Dementia Action Week (18 – 24 May), a national campaign led by the Alzheimer’s Society to encourage action and support for those affected by dementia. To coincide with this vital week, Norwich Theatre is proud to announce the expansion of its successful Theatre Cares sessions into the wider community.
Supported by the Norfolk Community Foundation, Lady Hind Tust, and The Alison Copley Charitable Trust, this expansion represents a significant step forward in making creative health activities accessible to those who need them most.
Elspeth Hunter, Creative Engagement Project Manager at Norwich Theatre, said: “Expanding Theatre Cares is about bringing the magic of music and the warmth of community to the doorsteps of those who need it most. Our goal is to build new partnerships that allow us to double our impact across the region. We want to ensure people living with dementia in our community have access to a creative and social space where they feel seen and supported.”
Currently held in the Norwich Theatre Royal’s Long Bar, Theatre Cares brings together individuals living with mild to moderate dementia and their carers for engaging, participatory music workshops. These sessions are designed to spark joy, curiosity, and new friendships in a relaxed, leisurely environment. The expansion aims to provide these friendly, relaxed spaces across Norfolk to reduce isolation through regular social interaction.
Research for the new community-based programme is already underway. Norwich Theatre is actively seeking potential partners to collaborate with in 2027 to ensure the project has the widest possible impact.
The profound impact of the sessions is echoed by current participants:
“We have been coming since the beginning, 3 1/2years ago, and it is clear to see how much we have grown and achieved. We have made lasting friends who support each other.”
“The nice thing about this group […] is that it’s not patronising. It’s so easy for people with dementia to feel patronised. It doesn’t feel like a dementia group to me. When we’re here, it just feels like just people having fun singing.”
“For me, it lets me do something I really love. You give up a lot of things when you become a carer. This lets me be me again.”
For more information about Theatre Cares, visit https://norwichtheatre.org/whats-on/theatre-cares-a-life-in-music-5/
