Tuckton care home residents enjoy immersive Shakespeare performance

Bournemouth care home residents were delighted and enthralled by a live, immersive outdoor theatre production performed in the garden.

Wickmeads, based in Tuckton, which is owned and operated by not-for-profit charity Care South, hosted a colourful performance of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet performed by dementia-friendly charity, The Dot Collective in partnership with Open Bar Theatre. The Dot Collective is a professional theatre company, which aims to reduce isolation for those with additional needs and dementia.

Residents were virtually transported to Verona in the 16th century as actors from The Dot Collective chatted to them in full character and costume, playing various musical instruments as they sung the opening lines of the play. The performance, which took place in the sunshine in the care home garden, sparked happy memories for the residents, who remember studying the play at school.

Tracey Walker, Home Manager for Wickmeads, said:

 “The residents look forward to welcoming back The Dot Collective every summer and this year’s production of Romeo and Juliet did not disappoint as the actors engaged with the residents and encouraged them to feel part of the play. It was particularly special for those residents who have a real passion for theatre but now feel unable to visit a theatre. There was so much joy and laughter during the performance, which made it a truly special afternoon for everyone who took part.”