The Ties That Bind
Paul’s world as a sound engineer is changing, as early stages of dementia begin to affect his personal relationships. How can he remain connected to those who care about him?
This touching performance asks, what ultimately binds us to others? What new stories can we weave that enable us to release old friends and join new ones?
An uplifting combination of physical performance, sound and potent visuals revealing the meaning of music and people in Paul’s life. Commissioned by Edinburgh University and based on their latest research along with stories collected from people living with dementia.
Informed by a research project funded by the Economic and Social Research Council and in partnership with the Mental Health Foundation and Alzheimer Scotland.
Press Reviews
“The play does well in conveying the extreme isolation and erosion of confidence that dementia causes to sufferers. As Paul is forced to close his recording studio, his condition increasingly ostracises him from friends and colleagues, leaving his sister as the sole connection to the outside world. As such, she alone carries the burden of care and is exposed to Paul’s frustrations and mood-swings as he struggles to adapt to life with dementia.
“Thankfully, there are some optimistic aspects portrayed in Paul’s journey. He manages to access a support group with other dementia sufferers, and is asked to help a local school with sound recording projects. This is an important element of the story as it provides the audience with a clear message that loneliness can be just as damaging as medical conditions and that there are services available that can help.” The Wee Review ***
Audience Feedback
“Beautifully portrayed with sympathy yet amusing too. Excellent audience participation after the performance with the actors.” Audience Member, Sessay.
“The feedback has been very positive and opened up a lot of conversations about how we deal with dementia as a community. I found the show engaging and really interesting, particularly having seen my granddad go through dementia. I felt like you depicted dementia accurately and with sensitivity. The show is very accessible to an older audience but also engaging for a younger audience who may well become a carer later in life for a friend or family member with dementia. I think the show portrays how isolating dementia can be for those suffering from the disease and those caring for them. It’s very important to have these conversations and to raise awareness.” Jo Gatenby, On Tour Manager, Rural Arts.
Produced
2017
Performed:
1 March 2017: Theatre by the Lake, Keswick
17 July 2017: The Courthouse, Westgate, Thirsk
18 July 2017: Sessay Village Hall, Sessay
19 July 2017: The Forum, Northallerton
3-9 August and 21-23 August: Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2017
21 September 2017: Queen’s Hall, Hexham
Spring 2018: The Civic, Barnsley