Gallant George and the Deadly Dragon

Over the past five weeks, 5 actor-musicians from the local area have been working with the residents of Glebefields to rehearse and devise this musical through interactive workshops. Armed with song sheets, percussion, swords and crowns, the ‘Glebefields Chorus’ performed chosen classics such as ‘Oh, what a beautiful morning’, ‘Somewhere over the rainbow’ and the firm favourite, ‘L-O-V-E’ whilst the action unfolded on stage led by actors, James Barlow and Lisa Nicholls.

Voices Across Time wanted to bring together their work in audience participatory musicals with their research and knowledge in music for wellbeing. The recognition of the benefits that music has on health and wellbeing has increased dramatically over the past few years with much research emphasising the effects that music can have on memory and communication. This was certainly seen between the residents of Glebefields whose engagement with the songs they loved saw boisterous percussion accompaniment and rapturous singing along with the re-telling of many stories from their lives. It also allowed the opportunity for residents to interact with their care staff and fellow residents in an energetic and fun way which resulted in much ‘singing in the dining room’ throughout the weeks.

We know the residents have really enjoyed it, and they have been talking about it when you haven’t been here and they have been looking forward to you coming back in again

Natalie, Caregiver at Glebefields Carehome