Still Life Dreaming

Still Life Dreaming explores the research and stories around the people involved in an epic scientific study on aging and memory. Every Scottish schoolchild born in 1936 sat an intelligence test in 1947. Between 2004 and 2007 over 1000 re-sat the test and the study has revealed fascinating findings about what makes a healthy body and healthy mind.

The production dramatises the leading figures behind the study and its participants. It’s a compelling story about a shared experience, and it’s also a slick production with a mostly older cast who are terrific. It’s great to see the Spare Tyre Theatre Company and Wellcome Trust explore these issues as we all head towards getting older, which surely has to be much better than the alternative!

There is a positive message about healthy bodies and healthy minds, and that while the research has shown there is much that isn’t known, there is a lot to be said about getting on and living life to the fullest. Now that’s always a great message to take from the theatre.

– Paul Ewing