Residents at Wickmeads always enjoy learning about different cultures and traditions, so there was great excitement in the home as everyone came together to celebrate Holi, the vibrant Hindu Festival of Colours. Holi marks the arrival of spring and celebrates love, positivity and the triumph of good over evil, making it a wonderful occasion to share with friends.
To help bring the festival to life, Wickmeads welcomed the talented performers from Bollywood Beatz Dance School, who spent the afternoon entertaining residents with a dazzling display of traditional and modern Indian dance. The lounge quickly filled with colour and energy as authentic and contemporary Indian music echoed throughout the home.
The young dancers had choreographed a series of special routines just for the residents, performing with wonderful enthusiasm and bright smiles. Family members also joined in the celebration, with one proud father stepping forward to sing a song while the ensemble of dancers delivered a spectacular performance.
Each routine was met with cheers and applause from the residents. John summed up the atmosphere perfectly, saying:
“This is fantastic. We are so lucky to experience such a magical show.”
After enjoying the performances, the residents were invited to take part themselves. Each person was given a colourful scarf and shown how to create flowing shapes and movements, just like the dancers. Laughter filled the room as everyone joined in and learned some graceful hand movements and gestures.
Audrey and Sylvia were especially keen to learn the steps, carefully copying the young dancers and enjoying the chance to try something new.
For Jeanne, the afternoon held a special meaning. Having spent many years living in India, the celebration brought back cherished memories. She shared:
“This has brought back many happy memories of living in India and the kindness of the people there. It certainly transports me to another time and place.”
Before leaving, the children spoke about the shows and competitions they have been rehearsing for and asked if they could return later in the year to perform again. The residents were delighted and enthusiastically said yes, so everyone is already looking forward to welcoming them back.
