Care Home Actors Leave Audience saying ‘Please, I Want Some More’

Residents at a Dorset care home have showcased their acting and singing talents in a mini production of the musical Oliver!

Since the beginning of the year, Colten Care’s Whitecliffe House in Blandford Forum has rung to the sounds of toe-tapping tunes such as Consider Yourself, Reviewing the Situation and Pick a Pocket or Two.

Companionship Team member Caroline Pugh is a cellist and pianist who graduated from the Guildhall School of Music and Drama and now leads many of the music and drama activities at the home.

She explained: “We have so many musical residents and everyone involved in the production was happy to put their heart and soul into rehearsing songs and short excerpts ready for a performance to other residents and staff.”

Lead character Oliver, played by resident Sylvia Drew, was very convincing in her delivery of the famous line: “Please, sir, I want some more!”, while Maureen Smith’s quiet humour proved a good choice for Dodger and Lois Ramsden excelled in the role of crafty Fagin.

Born in London’s East End, Shirley Thomson was the perfect Nancy.

And to complete the line-up, Coralie Jackson was an austere Mr Bumble and Home Manager Chris Lee was a suitably dastardly Bill Sykes.

Caroline Pugh added: “Singing is a fantastic activity for health and wellbeing and is something our residents really look forward to each week. It has been an absolute pleasure to see the fun and laughter enjoyed by all.”