For two nights only, Platform 4 transformed The Nuffield's Studio Theatre into a magical Starlight Picture Palace, where hosted two exclusive and celebratory midsummer dream evenings for members of the Connections Club, and their families and supporters.
Inspired by the group through a series of workshops over 4 months a stunning combination of film clips and video images were projected onto gauzes to decorate the space with a dreamlike atmosphere, a dreams dressing room full of theatrical costumes was created, and - to make the evening go with a swing - live music was provided by Winchester band: Red Jackson.
Shady Jane an emerging theatre company provided top notch hostessing along with professional dancers involving us all in the tango and jive.
Photographs from the evening created an exhibition at Southampton's Civic Centre for 2 weeks, before travelling to the National Alzheimer's Society Conference.
Platform 4's Artistic director, Catherine Church is thrilled to be working on the project:
"We have created many installations for younger people but this is the first time we've had the chance to make a very special event for an older age group."
Lynda Taylor from the Alzheimer's Society said, "Dementia is a devastating disease often leading to social isolation. The Connections Club enables people with dementia under the age of 65 and their carers to share each other's company while enjoying a wide range of activities. They have very much enjoyed working under the direction of Platform 4 to create this unique, personal and fun event."
