Talbot View residents take centre stage at Arts by the Sea Festival

Residents from Care South’s Talbot View care home in Bournemouth enjoyed an afternoon filled with creativity, entertainment and new experiences during a visit to the Bourne Valley Arts by the Sea Festival.

Bryan and Peter received a wonderfully warm welcome from organisers and volunteers at the community event, with plenty of smiles, conversation and coffee before they set off to explore everything the festival had to offer.

From circus skills and interactive games to live performances, face painting and a spectacular bubble show, there was plenty for the residents to see, try and enjoy.

Trying their hand at circus skills

Bryan and Peter were welcomed by Jasmin, a multi-hoop specialist and Associate Artist for Arts by the Sea, who encouraged them to have a go at some of the circus equipment.

Both residents threw themselves into the experience, trying everything from spinning plates to hula-hooping.

There was plenty of laughter as they practised their new skills, with visitors and volunteers cheering them on as they mastered each challenge.

Peter, who has become well known among residents and colleagues at Talbot View for his model-making skills, was keen to try as much as possible.

He explored the interactive stalls, including activities involving making music with sticks and guessing how much sugar was contained in different drinks.

Inspiration for Talbot View artist Bryan

Since moving to Talbot View, Bryan has discovered a passion for both painting and playing the harmonica.

He was particularly interested in the artwork displayed at the festival and spent time looking closely at a piece on the wall as they entered the event.

The visit even inspired Bryan to consider trying something new, as he later said he would like to have a go at painting someone’s face in the future.

Bryan also met Dylan, who was running the festival’s Open Mic, and promised that he would return later to perform a song.

A spectacular bubble show

The residents joined the audience for Squidge and Pop’s bubble show, which proved to be one of the highlights of the afternoon.

Bryan and Peter watched as enormous bubbles were created, including bubbles large enough for people to stand inside, along with impressive cube-shaped bubbles.

The performance brought plenty of smiles and demonstrated just how much creativity and imagination could be packed into a bubble show.

Bryan brings the crowd together with a song

Towards the end of the visit, Bryan kept his promise to Dylan and took to the Open Mic stage.

With Dylan accompanying him on guitar, Bryan performed the much-loved song ‘Daisy Bell’, better known by many as ‘Daisy Daisy’.

A crowd soon gathered around the stage and before long Bryan had everybody singing along with him.

Not content with just one performance, he then treated the audience to his harmonica skills, earning a huge cheer from the crowd.

It was a wonderful moment for Bryan and a memorable way to end the residents’ visit.

Several people at the festival commented on how lovely it was to see Bryan and Peter getting involved in the activities and enjoying everything the event had to offer, with some saying it reminded them of their own loved ones.

Staying connected with the Bournemouth community

Dawn Hand, Home Manager at Talbot View, said: “It sounds like Bryan and Peter had such a fantastic time at the Arts by the Sea Festival. They both love being creative and trying different activities, so this was the perfect opportunity for them.

“We are especially proud of Bryan for getting up in front of everyone to sing and play his harmonica. It is wonderful to see residents continuing to enjoy their interests, discover new ones and share their talents with the wider community.”

After chatting with volunteers and saying their goodbyes, Bryan and Peter returned home to Talbot View for a well-earned roast dinner, both with smiles from ear to ear.

At Care South, residents are supported to continue enjoying the hobbies, interests and experiences that matter to them, while staying connected with their local communities through regular outings, events and activities.