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Sharing Joy is a theatre show especially created for those living with dementia and their carers. It’s a huge celebration of life and all its joys, using music, dance, nostalgia, masks, puppetry and laughter to bring pleasure and meaning to everyone involved.

The show is set in the 1940s and 1950s, where we’ll meet courting couples, wartime nurses, a singing dog, and even Elvis himself - who may make an appearance as a special guest! There’s plenty of music to bring back memories, dancing to enjoy or join in with, swinging dresses and best suits. It’s a playful and joyous show that encourages everyone to take part and to express themselves.

Who is it for and where can it be performed?
The show has been created for people living with dementia, carers (whether in the home or Care Home), and families. Everyone interested is invited. Sharing Joy can be performed at most venues including care homes, GP surgeries, dementia cafes or wherever we will fit.

Benefits and learning outcomes
•  Encourages a re-engagement with culture
•  Involves high levels of participation, proven to improve mental and physical health
•  Encourages confidence, attention and communication, improving well-being and contentment
•  Gives people living with dementia the opportunity to connect in alternative ways
•  Promotes knowledge, training and skill-building in carers, supporting the delivery of excellent care
•  Provides meaningful engagement, an Essential Skills cluster for pre-registration nurses (NMC) and a Social Care Institute Marker of Excellence.
•  Links to Care Certificate Standards 4,5,6, 7 and 9 (HSC training).

Our sponsors
Sharing Joy has been created with the support of Arts Council England, Worcestershire County Council and the Elmley Foundation. It is part of Vamos Theatre's two year Strategic Touring Project funded by ACE. aiming to develop audiences amongst those living with dementia and their carers.

The show was originally developed in partnership with The Hereford Courtyard, with inspiration from movement-play specialists JABADAO, and a special commission of the show has toured as part of Sanctuary Care's Shine project. Our 2018 tour is supported by Gary Wiltshire.