Sundowning and dementia takes on the world stage

“We wholeheartedly commend all those involved in the project at KAGE Physical Theatre.” Alzheimer’s Australia Vic, General Manager Strategic Initiatives, Jack Sach said.

Starring Helen Morse (A Town like Alice, Picnic at Hanging Rock), Sundowner was developed through a series of community forums over eighteen months which brought together people with younger onset dementia, carers of those with dementia, and the creative team involved in the development of the show (including the performers, writer and director).

“The discussions within these forums were instrumental in creating Sundowner,” Kate Denborough KAGE Physical Theatre, Creative Director said.

“Participants with an experience of dementia and Alzheimer’s Australia Vic provided vital ideas, feedback and genuine stories that have subsequently shaped the philosophy and direction of the show.

“Some of the scenes within Sundowner have been directly crafted from stories shared within these community forums. The characters and their relationships have also been highly influenced by these shared conversations.

“Our creative team read widely in the field and consulted with practitioners in different parts of the world.”  

“KAGE Physical Theatre has created a performance that traverses sorrow, fears, humour and dignity.

Through the eyes of three generations, Sundowner tells the story of so many Australian families,” Mr Sach said.

Some of the participants in the forums will attend the premiere event this weekend.

“I can’t stop thinking about the whole experience and how uplifted I feel. It puts a light in my heart to know that this message will make it to the general public,” community forum participant and dementia carer Rachelle Better-Johnston said.

Sundowning is the name of a behaviour associated with dementia when some people with dementia are particularly restless in the afternoon and evening.  

Sundowner will be performed at the Castlemaine State Festival on the 2 and 3 April at the Phee Broadway Theatre, Mechanics Lane, Castlemaine, Victoria. Book your tickets through the Festival.  

 

 

For all media enquiries: Christine Bolt 0400 004 553, cbolt@alzvic.asn.au.