As a civil funeral celebrant, the majority of my experience with death occurs once somebody has passed away. In the main, I will receive details from a funeral director, where a family wish for a non- religious service to be led by a celebrant. By virtue of the name ‘celebrant’, the aim of my role is to meet with family and loved ones, to capture the essence of the person who has died and create a service to celebrate their life.
A recent outing to watch an incredible performance by Vamos Theatre focussed on death from another perspective and shows how even towards the end of one’s life new friendships can be forged and love and laughter can still abound.
The two central characters, Bernard and Bob are brought together when each is diagnosed as being terminally ill. Initial apprehension at their introduction to a hospice and not knowing anyone soon turns to positivity at the prospect of the opportunities they have to enjoy in each- others company.
Life is a gift, and following the example set by Bob and Bernard it shows how positive experiences and happy memories can be made towards the very end of life.
The two new friends embark on trips to the seaside, take selfies in front of Big Ben, and drink bottles of champagne in high class restaurants, reminiscing about their joint love of cars.
The fact that there is no audible dialogue is no barrier to one’s understanding of the story. Feelings and humour are communicated through body language, although I’m sure there were occasions when I could see different expressions on the masks worn by the 4 cast members! The understanding is further enhanced via the use of mobile phone exchanges between Bernard and Bob that are displayed on the set.
Grab the opportunity whilst you can to experience Dead Good. A play that provokes much thought about our view of death and the atttitudes surrounding a subject many of us avoid. Seventy minutes very well spent, of whatever time we have left!
Dave Fisher