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An introduction to: West Yorkshire Playhouse's work with people with dementia

We continue our focus on Leeds this month with a look at WYP’s pioneering work in the field of dementia support

The West Yorkshire Playhouse is a pioneer in dementia-friendly performances and creative workshops. We went along to a session to find out more.

The venue staged the UK’s first dementia-friendly performance of a mainstream theatre production, White Christmas, in December 2014. This was followed by dementia friendly performances of Beryl in 2015 and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang earlier this year. The next scheduled performance is of the UK premiere of Strictly Ballroom – The Musical in 2017.

Dementia-friendly performances address the potential barriers that might stop someone with dementia going to see a show. For example clear signage and visual markers, quiet spaces and additional trained staff and volunteers to support customers in the front of house space. They also involve adapting sound and lighting cues and stage action within the show itself where necessary.

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