IT’S’ LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION!’ AT SOUTHWAY

Bupa’s Southway Residential Home, London Road, Bedford will be turned into a film studio as the home re-enacts it’s very own version of ‘The Sound of Music’ on Tuesday 19 October. The initiative is being run by relationship theatre company Ladder to the Moon, and will turn everyone within the home into a movie maker extraordinaire, be it as producer, cameraman, make-up artist or star! Ladder to the Moon improves the quality of life for older people in care, particularly those living with dementia, by transforming care homes and hospitals with their unique model of relationship theatre. Positive outcomes of the productions include richer relationships between residents and staff, improvements in resident self-esteem and reduction in isolation. On the morning of the filming actors will engage with residents and staff, using scenes from ‘The Sound of Music’ for inspiration. The afternoon will see actors from Ladder to the Moon filming memorable scenes from the story with residents and staff participating in a workshop style performance. As well as the fun of the performance, staff will also be able to take part in coaching sessions throughout the day. The home will receive a specially edited DVD of the performance where staff and residents can reminisce about the day and recapture some of the poignant memories that they shared together. Fleur Sharman, home manager of Bupa’s Southway Residential Home said: “The residents are particularly looking forward to being part of their own film, whether its as a clapper board operator, wardrobe assistant, hairdresser or the star performer, there really is a role for everyone. ‘The Sound of Music’ is a firm favourite with staff and residents and everyone has fond memories of the film, so it will be great to play some of the characters. We hope this interactive theatre will bring laughter and energy into the home and everyone is really excited about the benefits this can bring to both residents and staff.” Media Call: This event will take place on Tuesday 19 October from 9.30am at Southway Residential Home, 290 London Road, Bedford, Bedfordshire, MK42 0PX. If you wish to arrange to take a photograph, please contact Fleur Sharman, home manager on 01234 345284 prior to the event.