Emerging playwright, 92 years old, brings tears of joy to aged care residents

Residents of Lakeside Living care community were in tears of laughter, as they partook in a pantomime production of the Nativity Story (with an Edenhope twist). 

Written, directed and produced by 92-year-old local, Kath Atwell, the play featured humorous Edenhope references and locations. 

Christmas carols were worked into the script and audience members were encouraged to interact with the cast. 

“My Granny used to take us to the pantomime every year,” Mrs Atwell said. “The audience would yell out and join in; it was a lot of fun.” 

The interactive nature of a pantomime stage production is what prompted Mrs Atwell to put pen to paper. 

“The Dementia Support Group was having a meeting, and the thought was that residents needed something they could get involved with,” Mrs Atwell said. 

“I couldn’t sleep that night and that’s when my mind starts working. 

“The idea of a pantomime came to me, so I got up at about 6am to hastily write it.” 

Mrs Atwell’s late husband lived with dementia; she now leans on her life experience to support other carers through the Dementia Support Group. 

“People who are supporting their loved ones needed something to look forward to as well, it can be very hard,” she said. 

Support group members formed a willing cast, with guidance from Grampians Health Edenhope social worker June Spencer, musicians Rob Tuncks and Ricardo Flores, and Sing Australia choir members. 

Mrs Atwell spent many late nights sewing costumes and creating backdrops. 

“I did a millinery apprenticeship when I was 14 years old [in 1947],” she said. “I bought all the old sheets in the op shop, it’s been a good project for me.” 

The result was a ridiculous, chaotic and noisy mess of laughter, singing and joy. 

One of the cast members said her mother, who lives with dementia, was crying with laughter. 

Those happy tears were surely better than any critical review, placing Mrs Atwell among the list of successful playwrights. 

Grampians Health Chief People Officer Claire Woods had high praise for all staff and community members behind the production. 

"There is nothing more powerful than a community coming together for the benefit of others," she said. 

"Our organisation will always embrace localised initiatives and this event was a wonderful example of health professionals working alongside loved ones, to best care for our residents in their home. 

"What a magical way to start the Christmas season." 

Edenhope's Dementia Support Group is open to all carers and loved ones of people living with dementia. For more information, contact Grampians Health Edenhope social worker June Spencer: 03 5585 9830