Dorset Care Home Actors Choose Bahaman Theme For ‘Play In A Day’

Talented care home residents in Dorset showed off their theatrical skills by devising, rehearsing and performing a whirlwind ‘play in a day’.

The storyline and cast of characters in The Bahaman Bear Scare at Colten Care’s Avon Cliff in Bournemouth were decided in the morning ahead of its staging in the afternoon.

It was the latest production by the home’s in-house troupe the Avon Cliff Players which features active involvement by residents and team members.

Only a rough plot and setting were decided earlier, giving time for a cardboard set to be painted.

The troupe then agreed story elements such as a Bahaman beach, a mysterious cave and an enchanted forest.

Companionship Team Leader Elise Martin said: “The morning of the performance we devised our story line, chose the songs, cast our characters and came up with the show title.
“In the afternoon we were ready to perform in full costume with props and set pieces.

“We played everything from an evil crimelord bear, playful monkeys, kind fairies and even a barmaid.

“The highlight was definitely the colourful finale of There’s No Business Like Show Business.”

Michael Griffiths, who played the bear, said: “The way the story developed was unbelievable at times but was told with so much conviction I was certainly on board.”

Fellow resident Dawn Street, a former jazz singer, said: “It felt great to perform again. It’s always such great fun and we all have a laugh. Our performances knock the socks off everyone.”

Elise added: “Devising and staging plays in this way provides lots of fun for everyone involved.

“We do it in a relaxed and supportive environment incorporating suggestions from our residents to enhance the story.

“After another successful performance from the Avon Cliff Players, we are looking forward to what we might do next.”